Todd Sumamno
With the summer in full swing, there is no better time to have a garden party. Gathering your loved ones together for an afternoon of fun and laughter in the sunshine is the perfect way to create lasting memories.
There are some ways you can make your garden more hospitable for your guests. Here are some tips for creating a memorable garden party.
Guest list and invitations
The size of your guest list will largely depend on the size of your outside space. Some hosts choose to open up the inside of their home for entertaining as well, not just for guests to use the bathroom. Having additional space is useful if the British weather decides to turn!
When it comes to picking the perfect date, try to be aware of the weather. Often there are spells of really nice weather in blocks, so try to plan your party around them. As much as you want to give your guests as much notice as possible, an impromptu gathering can be just as fun.
Budget
As the host, it can be easy to go overboard when it comes to buying bits to highlight your garden. At the beginning stages of planning, set yourself a budget. It will help to break it down into categories such as food and drink, décor and entertainment.
To cut down on costs ask your guests to contribute. Ask them to bring their own drinks or create a buffet-style meal where everyone brings a different dish. This keeps the pressure off you and allows you to enjoy the party too.
Décor and seating
There are so many simple additions you can make to your garden to add a party atmosphere. If your garden party will be going long into the night, make sure you have enough lighting. Adding some strings of lighting will help to add a cozy atmosphere. Focus this around the seating area to create the perfect place to relax and chat.
Most gardens do have a natural seating area, whether is it sun loungers or decking so you build upon the existing area. Focus on comfort for your guests. You could do a round of your local charity shops and snap up any cushions or blankets they have for sale.
Food and drinks
When you think of a summer garden party a barbecue will likely spring to mind. This is a great option, but it does mean one person will be grilling instead of enjoying the party for a large part of it.
Instead, try a buffet meal. You can prepare the dishes the days before the party which allows you to socialize and spend time with your loved ones on the day.
Remember to have a good mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. If young children are invited, create a separate children’s area solely for their drinks to avoid them mixing with adult drinks. To keep them cool put a couple of bags of ice in some coolers or buckets and leave them dotted around for people to help themselves.
However you design your garden party, the important part is enjoying yourself and making memories with your nearest and dearest.
Brittany
