My comments here are not intended to dissuade you from having your event outdoors, many of the nicest events I have attended have been outside. The purpose is to bring to your attention to situations that you may not be aware of when you plan an outside event.   If done right,  outdoor events can be very successful.  Being aware of the pitfalls and the special requirements of an outdoor event can help you avoid them and ensure a successful event. 

You can rent what you need from the larger party stores in this area like Classic Party Rentals  in Modesto.
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Noise Complaints from Neighbors

The first thing I ask a prospective client is if the location is in the City or out in the country.  Most are in the City.  Usually the client has thought about their neighbors from the standpoint of noise, particularly amplified music from the DJ, and  will tell me that they have talked to their immediate neighbors and they are agreeable to tolerate  the noise for one night.

The thing they did not think about is that it's more likely that a citizen who lives several blocks away will be the one who is annoyed by the noise, particularly the music,  and calls the Police or Sheriff and complains.  Sounds carry greater distances at night.  There is no way to predict something like this happening, but I can tell you from experience that when the Police or Sheriff arrive they will request you turn it down or "off"  depending on the number of complaints. Many cities require permits for such events and are very rigid about noise complaints.   Turning the music down is almost as bad as turning it off. Without a beat, most people are not interested in dancing.

Believe me,  this situation can ruin your event in a heartbeat and there is nothing you can do about it. Not only is your event ruined, but the monetary loss will be substantial.

If your event is located in the country, the chances of a noise complaint are greatly diminished if the neighbors are miles, rather than blocks away. This is not to say that a complaint couldn't  be made, but it is much less likely unless they are right next door.  However, I have heard of it happening.  Again, you must remember sounds carry greater distances at night! 
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Hot weather

Also, you must consider the comfort of your guests.  Most outdoor events take place in the summertime and things can get very hot and uncomfortable even in the shade. Plan your event accordingly with these tips in mind.  Discomfort will cause many people to leave early, or not even come.  Don't be sorry!
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Spreading out events will cost you more

If you are planning an outdoor wedding which is taking place on a small to medium size lot the placing of the DJ's equipment will be able to cover the events because they are confined.  However, if the location is large to very large the tendency is to have events in different locations around the grounds. For example for a wedding, the ceremony under the oak tree in the front yard and the reception in the backyard next to the pool. This will require extra manpower and equipment which will add to your costs. 
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In case of bad weather

You should have a backup plan in case the weather turns bad on the day of your event. Keep in touch with the weather service daily for both the current and extended 10 day weather forecast for your area and check it often.


Bugs (Insects)

Bugs, especially mosquitos, can be a big nuisance especially in the  country.  If they are bad in your area you might check into having the area sprayed shortly before the event. Look under PEST in the yellow pages for companies who provide that service.

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Restrooms

The choice to allow your guests to use your home's restroom (s) or provide rented portable units outside is up to you.   I have found that rented facilities work well and keeps your guests from entering your home and standing in line.  A couple of things if you rent portable units.   Provide a light for the unit(s) and somewhere to wash their hands.  There are several portable toilet providers in the Yellow Pages listed under TOILETS.  One of the better known companies in this area is A & A Portables in Modesto. 
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Parking

Consider where your guests will park.  You may want to direct them to a certain area or caution them not to park in others.  Having one or two people designed to help guests park properly would solve this problem.  Be sure they don't block driveways or park in prohibited areas. And always keep access to your event open for emergency vehicles in case of an emergency during the event.    This information can be sent along with your invitations.
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Electrical power requirements

Often food is prepared on the premises to serve guests.  When coffee pots, food warmers and other electrical appliances, including the DJ's equipment, are plugged in the same electrical outlets the drain will exceed the limits of the circuits and cause the loss of power when the circuit breaker blows.   The problem is usually overcome by connecting these devices to different circuits throughout the home.  Having to do this is a necessary pain in the lombard,  but a necessity if you expect to serve hot food and provide power for the DJ's equipment.
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Trash Containers

This may sound silly to worry about trash containers,  but you must provide several of them for your guests to deposit trash.  Some for garbage and some marked for aluminum and bottles for recycling.


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(C)  Copyright  All Rights Reserved. Dr. C.C. Mobile DJ Service, Modesto, CA  95355
Diablo Grande Pool Area at night
Diablo Grande Pool Area
Private backyard with rented equipment.
Diablo Grande near the pool.
The Lakes at Fruityard Restaurant
Outdoor Events

Important Note:    In 2008 Stanislaus County began enforcing an existing ordinance which regulates outdoor venues.  Complaints from neighbors of some outdoor wedding venues triggered enforcement by county officials, who say the ceremonies aren't permitted under agriculture zoning rules. Venue operators found themselves subject to code enforcement actions, including fines, nuisance abatement hearings.  The results have forced several outdoor venues to go out of business. 

We don't know if this ordinance covers outdoor weddings by private parties on private properties.   Play it safe and check with city or county officials before you proceed to be safe.

We try to keep this list up to date, but situations change quickly.  Be sure to check carefully any venue that you might be interested in.