The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Summer Party Venue: Key Factors to Consider
Preparing for a big summer party is an exciting but rarely smooth venture for many of us in the UK. Whether you’re planning a corporate summer event to mark a business milestone achievement, a small intimate gathering for you and your friends and family, or a large venue for thousands of potential guests, choosing the right summer party venue is everything.
Your chosen venue can make or break your event. Too big and it can feel empty and desolate, too small and it can feel cramped and overwhelming, not to mention if it’s outdoors and you’re met with inclement weather – UK summers can be unpredictable at the best of times. However, with careful preparation and contingency plans in tow, your summer party will go off without a hitch, and you’ll be best placed to create a truly memorable occasion, whatever it may be.
At Function Fixers, we are no strangers to arranging, coordinating and pulling off a range of incredible summer parties in both indoor and outdoor venues. This comprehensive guide from our experienced venue-finding experts will walk you through all you need to know when it comes to choosing the right summer party venue.
Important Venue Factors to Consider
Before instructing a venue-finding service, it’s essential to establish what you want your event to look like. Consider the following criteria:
Guest and space requirements:
Determine your exact guest numbers and ensure adequate space for comfortable movement, especially considering summer events often benefit from the flow between indoor and outdoor areas.
Event style and theme:
Whether you’re planning an elegant garden party or a vibrant rooftop celebration, your venue should complement your vision. Consider how the space will enhance your chosen theme.
Budget considerations:
Factor in not just the venue hire but associated costs such as catering, decoration, and potential wet weather backup plans.
Types of Summer Party Venues
Rooftop Venues and Terraces
Perfect for capitalising on long summer evenings and city views, rooftop venues offer a sophisticated urban setting, and picturesque skyline views as the sun sets which can make for a sight to behold.
These spaces combine the appeal of outdoor entertaining with the security of indoor facilities.
Look for professional venues offering:
• Weather protection options (e.g. parasols or extendable canopies)
• Stunning skyline views
• Good ventilation and shade provisions
• Adequate lift access for guests and suppliers
Historic Houses and Stately Homes
These venues provide an elegant backdrop with the added benefit of beautiful grounds. The venues themselves can make for an incredible focal point of entertainment, either as a background piece or as complementary to your chosen activities.
Consider historical venues that have:
• Formal gardens for sophisticated garden parties
• Indoor spaces with historical character
• A variety of photography opportunities
• Where possible, dedicated events teams with extensive experience
Garden Venues
Ideal for traditional summer parties, garden venues offer natural beauty and plenty of open space for outdoor summer events and activities.
Look for:
• Various outdoor entertainment possibilities
• Natural shade from trees
• Opportunities for marquee placement
• Beautiful backdrops for photography
Contemporary Urban Spaces
Many modern venues offer unique features perfect for summer daytime and nighttime entertainment. Look for contemporary party venues with the following characteristics to add some style and sophistication to your event:
• Industrial-chic aesthetics
• Inclusive bedrooms and hospitality
• State-of-the-art facilities
• Flexible and adjustable spaces
• Convenient transport links and ample parking
Essential Considerations for Summer Venues
Planning for the Weather
As we all know, in the summer it’s common to see all sides of British weather. Even with the forecast mostly unpredictable, making considerations for the weather none of us want is a wise move.
Therefore:
• Ensure there’s a solid wet weather plan
• Consider covered outdoor areas or marquee options
• Check that the indoor space capacity matches your guest list
• Verify heating, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) systems for temperature control
Accessibility and Location
Think about your guests’ journey. While London summer venues, for example, are typically convenient for a lot of people around the area, the further afield you travel, the more logistical challenges you may encounter.
Wherever your chosen summer event will be situated, consider:
• Transport links and parking availability
• Distance from major motorways or landmarks
• Accessibility for elderly or disabled guests
• Loading access for suppliers, caterers or third-party entertainment
Facilities and Amenities
Summer venues, particularly those with a large headcount, require sufficient facilities and amenities in good condition throughout the event’s duration.
However, even if you plan a small summer party with less than 100 guests, that still doesn’t mean the following should be in any way overlooked:
• Adequate bathroom facilities
• Air conditioning and ventilation systems
• Catering facilities and bar areas
• Power supply for sound, lighting and other equipment
Making the Most of Your Summer Party Venue
Timing
• Consider sunset times for outdoor activities
• Plan around the coolest parts of the day
• Allow sufficient time for setup and breakdown
• Think about noise restrictions or curfews
• Consider allowing additional time for unexpected delays
• Ensure someone is always on hand to help with deliveries or arrange logistics
Additional Services
Many venues offer extra services worth considering:
• In-house catering options
• Furniture and equipment hire
• Recommended supplier lists
• Event coordination services
Factor the above into your summer party venue preparation steps when perusing available locations and overall budget.
Working with Professional Venue Finding Services
Professional venue-finding services can significantly streamline your search. For example, at Function Fixers, we can offer you:
• Access to extensive venue databases
• Negotiation of best rates and terms
• Time-saving shortlisting process
• Expert advice on suitable options
As professional venue finders with access to a wide range of venues, we know first-hand what it can be like if things don’t go to plan. Before making your final decision:
• Visit the venue beforehand, at the same time of day as your event
• Review all terms and conditions carefully
• Discuss and document all included services
• Understand cancellation and postponement policies
Book Your Dream Summer Party Venue Today
Finding the perfect summer party venue requires careful consideration of numerous factors, but the effort invested in choosing the right location will pay dividends in the success of your event.
Working with experienced venue-finding professionals like Function Fixers can help streamline this process, ensuring you find a venue that not only meets your requirements and budget, but also provides the perfect backdrop for your summer celebration.
To explore an extensive range of summer party venues across the UK, including unique party venues in London and beyond, explore our range. If you have a venue in mind, book directly with us today and one of our team will be in touch to take you through the next steps.
