By Andrew Zill and Petra Compel, Feats Inc., Baltimore, Md. photos courtesy of featsHaving an outdoor event doesn’t have to feel like Uncle Joe’s annual backyard barbeque. Here’s a look at three trends in décor and catering that will transform your outside venue into a fabulous space for your party. 1. Bring the inside outside.Furniture, shelving units, and hard surface bars that are normally considered indoor furnishings can be brought outside to create the comforts of home in the backdrop of nature. Don’t be afraid to use lounge furniture, upholstered seating, rugs, and other hard-surface furniture to create rustic charm in the great outdoors. Consider creating a homespun wedding with mismatched design by placing dining room tables on the lawn and creatively selecting five different centerpieces, five different place settings, and five different chairs to create an intentional look. Be sure to keep one element consistent. For example, use the same linen on the tables for a unified look. Don’t be afraid to stop by your favorite antique shop to rent a few accent pieces to create that “at-home” look. For example, antique buffets and sideboards, coffee tables, or a unique pair of armchairs for the bride and groom. But remember, the goal of this look is to be intentionally mismatched, not seem like Saturday morning at the flea market.2. Go Green.Going green and sustainability aren’t just fads; they’re the trends that never go out of style. Incorporating natural elements into an event, then reusing them later, can make the most of an outdoor event budget. The key is to creatively choose elements that can be used in other ways long after the party ends. Start by using a variety of live trees and potted plants to warm up a space. Work with an event lighting company to create a dramatic look. Buy trees and plants that the client will want to plant later. It’s a very green and fun way to remember a special day for many years to come. Take advantage of the seasons. For example, in fall, place French heirloom pumpkins (a.k.a. fairy tale pumpkins, which can be used later in recipes), apples, and straw around an entryway to welcome guests. When the party is over, donate all of it to a local farm to be used as feed. The farmer (and animals) will appreciate it. Opt out of the traditional floral centerpiece and go the “foodie” route. Artisan spreads and jams, handcrafted meats and cheeses, and locally sourced fruits and vegetables can be arranged artfully on wooden breadboards and marble slabs as gourmet edible centerpieces. Accent the event with fresh herbs and potted flowers. This is a greener option than traditional cut flower arrangements. Work with your florist to select a variety of colors and designs to reflect your clients’ personalities and the event theme. At the end of the evening, these decorative elements can go home with guests and will leave them with a lasting impression. Let’s face it, who needs another bag of tulle-wrapped Jordan almonds?3: Provide The Unexpected.Keep guests guessing throughout the night by incorporating one or two unexpected touches. For the health-conscious cocktail hour, provide a make-your-own smoothie station with a twist—guests have to peddle a bicycle to whip up their favorite drink. For an unexpected treat at the end of the night, consider a unique food truck with offerings of popcorn or ice cream as guests depart. Clever roaming bars can be a fun conversation piece at any outdoor party. Turn the standard sushi station into a roaming sushi bar with your favorite selections and colorful chopsticks. On the same concept but using a different theme, a roaming candy bar filled with childhood favorites or high-end chocolates gives guests an opportunity to pick out their favorites. It’s a great alternative to the stationary candy bar. Varieties of flavored popcorn in small take-out boxes are fun for guests to enjoy at the party, or to take with them as they head home.For backyard flair with an upscale twist, take advantage of the outdoors with a grill station or raw bar. Favorite seasonal foods like homemade sausages, fresh oysters, clams, and kabobs work well on chef-attended grill stations. Adding side tables loaded with handcrafted condiments like herb-infused mignonettes, homemade mustards, and fruit ketchups gives these standard sides a new approach. Finally, don’t forget the live music. Place a bluegrass band or gypsy jazz quartet under a large canopy tree instead of on the typical tented stage, weather permitting, of course. These outdoor event trends are sure to put life into any party. Cheers! ••