The summer and warm weather is finally here (well in Florida it’s been hot since February)! This means the start of of fun and exciting outdoor promos and events across the country. Follow these tips to keep your energy up and a smile on your face as you work as a brand ambassador at outdoor events this summer!

Tip #1: Be Well Rested

Take it easy the night before a summer outdoor promotion. It’s not the time to stay out late and have one too many. Hangovers and direct sunlight do not mix! Get a good night’s sleep so you can wake up early and refreshed to get to your event on time and ready to promote.

Tip #2: Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable water bottle and take small drinks often throughout the day. Ask your team lead if you can refill the water if it’s not provided for you. Except in an emergency, please do not just leave the event footprint without checking in with management. Avoid caffeine, and of course absolutely NO alcohol while working.  You know you can’t drink when working an event right? (Please say yes!).

Tip #3: Eat Light Meals

For all promoters working at festivals, one piece of advice: avoid the deep fried Oreos! Yes they are delicious but it will only weigh you down. Heavy, fried foods and too much sugar do not go well when working in the sun or in high temperatures. Eat a light, healthy breakfast, and bring high energy snacks with you for your breaks like fresh fruit or protein bars. For lunch, try your best to find something light, and eat smaller portions. And in case you were wondering, a philly cheesesteak with chili fries is NOT considered light and healthy!

Tip #4: Wear Cotton and Hats, Sunglasses (if allowed)

Follow uniform guidelines but have summer weight fabric options. Wearing cotton and other breathable fabrics instead of synthetics will make a huge difference. If the client allows you to wear shorts, then please wear knee-length bermuda-style shorts. Remember, you are working and will be moving around a lot, so it’s definitely not time for short shorts! Follow uniform guidelines, but please ask if it’s not clearly stated if hats and/or sunglasses are allowed. Make sure any cap/hat you have is non branded – think plain black baseball cap – not a huge sun visor or beach hat. A non branded cap is more likely to be allowed if it’s not provided for you.

Tip #5: Always Wear Sunscreen and Reapply

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should follow the rules below when applying sunscreen:

• Choose sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, is water resistant, and provides broad-spectrum coverage.
• Apply sunscreen generously before going outdoors. It takes approximately 15 minutes for your skin to absorb the sunscreen and protect you.
• Use enough sunscreen. Most adults need at least one ounce of sunscreen, about the amount you can hold in your palm, to fully cover all exposed areas of your body. Rub the sunscreen thoroughly into your skin.
• Apply sunscreen to all bare skin. Remember your neck, face, ears, tops of your feet and legs. For hard-to-reach areas like your back, ask someone to help you or use a spray sunscreen. If you have thinning hair, either apply sunscreen to your scalp or wear a wide-brimmed hat. To protect your lips, apply a lip balm with a SPF of at least 15.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours to remain protected, or immediately after swimming or excessively sweating.

So make sure you apply your first layer of sunscreen BEFORE you arrive to the event and remember to bring it with you so you can reapply throughout the day. Even if you are working under a tent, you still have to walk to and from your transportation or you may have to work out in the crowd. Be prepared for any scenario!

Tip #6: If You Can’t Take the Heat …

Well you know how the rest goes. Outdoor work isn’t for everyone. If you know you are heat averse or can’t work in the sun for whatever reason, you’d be wise not to sign up to be a promoter at an outdoor event. You should know by now that events and promos happen rain or shine, so you’ll need to be flexible and willing to work in any capacity at an outdoor event. Read the event description carefully and be sure to ask questions before confirming your availability to work. If you’re not already working with Adelante Live, but think you might like to this summer or beyond, we’d love to hear from you. Find out what it takes to join the ALI team.