Why Your Summer Party Needs a Backup Plan (And How the Right Magician Can Save the Day)
- Chris Wheel
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Your outdoor party was perfect until the wind started blowing napkins around and guests started swatting mosquitoes. Then the weather app pinged with a severe thunderstorm warning.
If you've been paying attention to the weather this June, you know it's been brutal. Heat waves, surprise thunderstorms, and chilly rainy days – all in the same week. The days of "it'll probably be fine" weather planning are gone.
Why Outdoor Entertainment Is Trickier Than You Think
Everything that works perfectly indoors becomes a potential disaster outside. Wind blows props around, sun glare makes it impossible to see sleight of hand, and half your guests are distracted by bugs while the other half are melting in the heat.
Your hired magician shows up ready to perform, but the elements have other plans. This is why you need a magician who plans ahead, not one who just shows up and hopes for the best.
Red Flags: Magicians You Should NOT Book
Here are the warning signs that tell you a magician isn't prepared for summer weather realities:
They don't ask about your backup plan. If a magician doesn't bring up weather contingencies during your initial conversation, they're not experienced with outdoor events.
They have no rain plan. When you ask "what happens if it rains?" and they say "we'll figure it out" or "it probably won't rain," run.
They don't mention heat or coverage. If they're not asking about shade, tents, or indoor alternatives when booking a summer outdoor gig, they haven't thought this through.
They need extensive setup requirements. Be wary of entertainers who need stages, special lighting, or major furniture rearrangement. When weather forces a quick indoor pivot, you need someone who can adapt fast.
What Professional Magicians Actually Do
Experienced summer entertainers have been through every weather scenario:
They ask about your indoor backup space and weather contingency plans upfront
They can work in any reasonable space without special setup requirements
They have quick transition plans if you need to move inside
They bring portable power supplies for larger outdoor events and don't depend on finding outlets
The Smart Solution: Plan for Inside from the Start
Here's the secret that experienced hosts know: plan your entertainment inside regardless of the weather.
This isn't giving up on your outdoor party – it's making it better. Here's why:
Your guests get the best of both worlds. They can enjoy your beautiful outdoor setup, then come inside to cool off, enjoy amazing entertainment in air-conditioned comfort, and head back outside refreshed.
No weather stress. Rain? No problem. Heat wave? Your guests have a comfortable retreat. Bugs? They're not invited to the indoor show.
Better entertainment experience. Magic works better in controlled environments. Your guests can see every detail, hear every word, and focus on being amazed instead of swatting mosquitoes.
Perfect timing. Your magician can set up inside while guests are outside enjoying cocktails and mingling. When it's showtime, everyone comes in for the entertainment, then flows back outside naturally.
Tent Rentals: If You Must Stay Outside
If you're determined to keep everything outdoors, invest in enclosed tents with solid walls, not just open-sided canopies. Add fans or portable AC units. Yes, it costs more, but your guests will actually be comfortable enough to enjoy the entertainment.
The Professional Difference
Professional magicians have solutions, not just tricks. They've performed through heat waves, thunderstorms, and everything in between. They know how to make your event work regardless of conditions.
When you're planning your summer event, don't just hire entertainment – hire problem-solvers who ensure your guests have an amazing time no matter what Mother Nature decides to do.
Ready to Plan Your Weather-Proof Event?
Don't let summer weather hold your party hostage. Whether you're planning a corporate event, family gathering, or celebration that needs to go off without a hitch, let's talk about creating an entertainment experience that works in any conditions.
I've performed through every weather scenario imaginable and know how to help you plan an event that your guests will love, regardless of what the weather decides to do.
Contact me today to discuss your summer event and create a plan that's so good, you might actually prefer it to perfect weather. Because the best parties aren't the ones with perfect conditions – they're the ones with perfect planning.
