In New England, we know the drill: we spend months hunkered down against the Nor’easters, dreaming of the first weekend in May when we can finally fire up the grill and head to the patio. And we dream of having our favorite music playing in the background. As we daydream, we imagine calling experts to install brand-new outdoor audio systems. 

But for many Boston homeowners, there’s a recurring frustration. By the time the weather is warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, every high-end AV integrator and landscaper in the Greater Boston area is booked through the Fourth of July.

If you want your backyard to be the premier destination for entertaining this spring and summer, the secret is to start the design process now, while the last of the snow is still on the ground. Here is why March is the strategic "sweet spot" for planning your outdoor audio system.