A field-tested checklist for backyard parties across NYC & Long Island — timing, layout, setup, and answers to the questions we hear most.
4–6 weeks out: lock guest count, select seating & tables, choose a weather plan. 2–3 weeks out: pick games, confirm drop-off window and access. 1 week out: finalize layout, create a run-of-show, confirm power/water. 2–3 days out: ice, disposables, extension cords, lighting batteries. Day-of: clear the setup zone, mark sprinkler heads, keep pets inside.
Bounce castles need a flat area roughly 20×20 ft plus clearance, and a dedicated 15A outlet within ~75 ft. Sketch your yard so we can plan placement before we arrive. Leave 24–30″ between chairs for comfort and 36″ aisles for flow.
Mix seating styles: Chiavari chairs for the dining area, folding chairs for overflow and lawn games. The extra 10% covers late RSVPs and comfort. Place games on grass; dining on flat surfaces if possible.
String lights and lanterns at eye level, candles on tables, no blinding flood lights. Curate a 3-hour playlist and test volume where guests will be talking. Choose one accent color — gold, forest, or black — and repeat it in napkins, balloons, and signage.
Wind: weigh down décor, avoid tall top-heavy pieces. Rain: keep 3–5 large towels and a mop bucket handy. For inflatables we follow manufacturer rain and wind guidelines — talk to us about timing or substitutions if the forecast looks rough.
Route cords along edges — no trip lines across walkways. Inflatables: stake or weight per manufacturer specs; keep a spotter for kids. Have a first-aid kit and a charged phone visible to hosts. Cords taped or routed along edges; no trip lines across walkways.
Allow ~15×15 ft on a flat surface plus 3–5 ft clearance on all sides and 18 ft of vertical clearance. Face the entrance toward open space; keep ~6 ft clear for safe entry and exit. Post simple rules at the door: no food, no shoes, no sharp items inside. Stake in grass where permitted; otherwise use sandbags per manufacturer requirements.
Stage rentals by the gate or driveway for pickup. Do a light sweep for nails, staples, or broken décor. Take a few "after" photos to remember layouts you liked — great reference for next year.