Decide On a Location
If you’re not sure where to start with your inflatable displays, it’s helpful to consider where you’d like to place them. Measuring the area will give you a good idea of what size(s) to get as well as how many inflatables will best fit the space. You’ll also want to place items so they’re sheltered from the wind and out of the way of any low-hanging tree branches that could tear the fabric. For more details, take a look at our related article 8 Tips for Placing and Setting Up Holiday Inflatables.
Consider Durability
As with any other type of outdoor decorations, inflatables are available at different prices, depending on the size and the quality. Less expensive products are, of course, more affordable, but they may not last as long as higher-end models. Before choosing an inflatable yard decoration, think about the long term. Are you only planning to use your decoration for a season or two, or would you like to display it year after year? This will help you determine a budget, so you know what price range to look in.
Choose a Theme
If you’d like to display more than one inflatable this holiday season, deciding on a theme before purchasing individual pieces will make the final arrangement look more designed and eye-catching. There are many ways to come up with your own theme. For example, you can choose various pieces by color scheme, by subject or both. If you’re planning a Christmas display, a Santa theme might be nice — in which case a sleigh and a North Pole sign, along with a few reindeer, elves and penguins, will coordinate well together. Or if you’re decorating for Halloween, perhaps a haunted house surrounded by witches, vampires, ghosts and skeletons is the way to go. You could also choose a simple all-red-and-white theme for Christmas or an all-black-and-orange one for Halloween.
Pick the Right Size
The right size for an inflatable will depend on the size of your yard and on how close the display will be to the road. If you have a very large front yard that stretches far away from the street, a larger display will be much more visible to passersby. However, if you live in a townhome on a city block with a minimal yard, a smaller display will look more tasteful and subdued. Also, if you’re planning a grouping, choose inflatables of various sizes and organize them using the same design principles you would for arranging flowers or creating a centerpiece for a dining room table. Essentially, you should place the taller decorations in the center and shorter ones on either side. You can even create multiple rows — in which case you should place the taller decorations in the back.
Think About Your Audience
An easy way to plan a display is to think about who you’re decorating for. Are you designing something to welcome kids who are out trick-or-treating on Halloween? Or are you looking for something that will coordinate with a neighborhood Christmas theme? Try to imagine what would make the biggest impression.
Check the Label
Outdoor inflatable decorations have electrical components and will be exposed to the elements. While many are waterproof, always check the packaging before making a purchase to ensure the inflatable is safe to leave out in the rain. You’ll also need an outdoor extension cord to plug into an outdoor GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for inflatable safety and care. Only use extension cords and outlets that are rated for outdoor use.
Get Inspired
For more ideas to help with your next outdoor display, check out Holiday Inflatables, Halloween Inflatables and More.