How to Nail Your Backyard Party Setup
Feng Shui Your Next Soirée
By Lia Menna Gross
This post contains affiliate links.
Planning a backyard party? The summer months provide the perfect backdrop for gatherings with friends and family. You’re able to create memorable moments and positively strengthen connections with loved ones.
Why not infuse your party and backyard design with a dash of the ancient wisdom of Feng Shui?
Doing so will provide you with a harmonious, energetic and inviting atmosphere.
Whether it's a casual barbecue, pool fiesta or an elegant soirée, applying Feng Shui principles can enhance your party's ambiance, making it unforgettable for all your guests.
Let’s jump in!
Good Vibes Only Party Plan
Clear the Clutt-ah!
“Declutter, declutter, declutter!” This simple step will set the stage for a more relaxed and inviting environment.
You’ll want to start with a clean slate:
Remove any unnecessary items or debris from your backyard.
Take those piled up pool floats and store them away!
Clutter blocks the flow of ch’i (that’s energy). Ensure that pathways are clear and your outdoor space is tidy.
Quell your inner perfectionist. Decluttering is top-notch for creating a cohesive look.
Define Your Space
Space planning is a key element in backyard design. Putting a Feng Shui twist on it will promote a seamless flow throughout your backyard.
Create designated areas for different activities. Work with what you’ve got furniture-wise. Add decor pieces as needed to spice things up.
Try woven outdoor poufs or modern concrete planters to distinguish zones for dining, socializing, and relaxing. This helps ch’i flow smoothly and allows guests to feel comfortable moving around the space.
Bring in the Five Elements
The five elements are a Feng Shui staple. You can’t have Feng Shui without them!
Aim for having one of each in your party setup:
Water: A small fountain, water feature or even a bowl with floating candles can bring in this calming element.
Wood: Add wooden furniture, bamboo decorations or potted plants.
Fire: Use candles, lanterns or a fire pit to bring warmth and active energy.
Earth: Incorporate earthy colors (browns, tans) in tablecloths, napkins, or stone planters. Fresh flowers on the table give an elevated touch.
Metal: Include metal accents with silverware, metal candle holders or decorative objects. The metal element is great for enhancing socialization!
Level Up Your Seating Arrangement
You’ll want to position seating in a way that feels natural and promotes conversation and connection. Circular seating does the trick in Feng Shui.
Arrange chairs in arched or circular patterns instead of straight lines (we’re going for backyard comfort vibes, not the boardroom!). It’s important that no one has their back to the main entryway - this can create uneasy feelings.
Enhance Natural Elements
Let nature take center stage! Use it to your advantage and plan your backyard design and party around the natural elements of your backyard. Situate seating underneath a beautiful tree or near a fragrant, blooming garden.
Incorporate a fire pit with circular seating in the center or far back center portion of your yard. This will enhance your Fame & Reputation gua (and guarantee one stellar fête!).
Keep fire elements away from the home, if possible (Feng Shui or not, safety is also important).
Set the Mood
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Soft, ambient lighting creates a welcoming and warm atmosphere. Use string lights, lanterns or fairy lights to add a magical touch. Avoid harsh fluorescents which can disrupt the tranquil vibe we’re designing.
Candles are great energy enhancers - but switch to a flameless set when kiddos are running rampant!
Harmonize Colors
Select a color scheme that reflects the party’s theme and the desired energetic feel. Soft, pastel colors promote a zen ambiance while vibrant hues like red and orange energize the space.
Balance is key! Try mixing coordinating colors so that a single hue doesn’t overwhelm the environment. Use tools like this color wheel calculator from Sessions College to do just that.
Pump Up the Volume
Music is a powerful tool in Feng Shui.
While lighting sets the mood, music inspires the tone. Choose background music that complements the vibe you’re aiming for.
Try jazzy tunes for a calming allure (nothing beats Kenny G on the sax!). Incorporate upbeat jams to imbue your party with good vibrations - and see sweat comin’ out your pores (thank you, Marky Mark).
Personalize the Experience
Use personal touches that resonate with you and your guests. This could be anything from a favorite flower to a signature drink or something from a past trip. This will make the space feel more welcoming and intentional.
Final Touches
As your guests arrive, give ‘em that southern hospitality!
Greet them. Guide them through the space to stir up stagnant ch’i. This not only helps them feel welcome but enhances the flow of energy.
Keep people moving throughout the space to sustain those positive vibes.
The key to a successful Feng Shui backyard party is balance, harmony and arranging the five elements to your benefit. Having been energetically uplifted, your guests will leave feeling refreshed, connected and ready for more.
Are you ready to go from overwhelm and anxiety to clarity and confidence in your home?
Let’s work together!