Entertain Outdoors with These Allergy Tips

6 Party-Planning Tips for Seasonal Allergies

1. Time it Right

Pollen counts are typically highest from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., so try to plan your outdoor party early in the afternoon.

2. Mow Down Grass Allergies

Grasses flower and release pollen into the air in the late spring and early summer. If grass makes you sneezy, try cutting the grass short so it does not flower and release pollen into the air. Also, be sure to mow the lawn one or two days before the event.

DID YOU KNOW?

Wearing an inexpensive dust or painter’s mask can help reduce your exposure to pollen and mould spores while mowing the lawn, raking leaves and doing other pre-party yard prep.²

3. Find the Right Spot

If you’re looking for a location to host an event in the summer, ask the venue what type of grass they have so it will help you avoid the worst allergy culprits. Wherever you end up, ask the venue whether it is possible to mow the lawn one to two days before the event to avoid being around freshly cut grass.³

4. Make a Mould Move

Be sure to rake up mouldy leaves before partygoers arrive. And, if you see signs of mould in your mulch, consider replacing it with gravel.⁴

5. Pick Flowers Less Likely to Aggravate Allergies

Whether you’re planting flowers in your yard or choosing party centrepieces, pick flowers that produce little to no pollen. Daffodils, impatiens, lilies, pansies, petunias, roses, snapdragons, tulips and zinnias are all ⁴ less likely to aggravate allergy symptoms.⁵

Beware of summer standbys like sunflowers, daisies and chrysanthemums that are in the ragweed family and can trigger pollen allergies.⁶

6. Dress to Protect

Wear a brimmed hat and oversized sunglasses to help protect your eyes and hair from wind-blown pollen and mould spores.⁶ You can keep some fun shades on hand for allergy-prone guests who may have forgotten theirs. You could even make them a party favour!