The nights are short and the days are long, that can mean only one thing; summer is here! You could be so excited for the start of summer, that you want to throw a party just to mark the season. Whatever reason you have to throw a party, it won't be complete without these 5 must-haves.
Music & Entertainment
No great party would be complete without music and a garden party in no exception to this rule. If you don’t already have one, a wireless speaker is a hassle-free way to get your guests into the groove. They're so easy to set up you could even take the time to decorate them to match the theme. Why not take it that step further and throw some garden party games into the mix? Our Pinterest page is bursting with brilliant garden party game ideas.
Food, Glorious Food
Every party needs a range of food and drinks, but you already knew that. What makes a garden party special is those extra personal touches, these ensure that your guests not only enjoy eating your delicious food, but might even give it a notable mention on Instagram! You will definitely want to make sure all of your guests are being catered for, so be sure to ask around for any specific dietary requirements.
The British weather is notoriously unreliable, so you will probably want to minimise the risk of any last-minute panics. No-one wants to be rushing inside with trays of food, so an outside structure is an ideal place to set things up. This could be a Summerhouse, a Garden Shed or even a luxury Garden Room.
Cocktails & Drinks
Cocktails, or mocktails for those who are driving, are an easy and enjoyable way to add a personal touch and sense of fun. Do your research and perhaps a few practice runs, so you can surprise and delight your guests with your newfound skills and a tasty beverage. A punchbowl or drinks dispenser allows you to create greater quantities from which guests can help themselves – taking some of the pressure off you as host. Cold drinks are also a must, keeping them in a large container filled with ice will make sure they are cool and accessible.
Decor
The decor you choose will be key in creating the right atmosphere. First of all think about your theme and build everything else around that. Are you having a colour theme? Perhaps the party is in honour of a special guest? Incorporate this into your planning process, the reactions of your guests will make your thoughtfulness and effort certainly worth it.
There is a whole host of DIY ideas for you to decorate and personalise your party. Spare bottles can be transformed into candle holders or miniature lanterns. Our Garden Party Design & Decoration Pinterest board has some ideas that we think will look stunning as part of any garden party.
Seating
Creating a comfortable seating area or selection of picnic blankets will allow your guests - and yourself, to relax and enjoy warm weather. If possible, set up a shady area for those who don’t like to sit in direct sunlight. It may be reasonably warm in the sunny daytime, but keep in mind that this is Britain and if your party runs into the evening, your guests might want blankets. We have collated some of our favourite garden seating setups in our Pinterest board.
Heating & Lighting
Unfortunately even the best days must come to an end, but
don’t let your garden party end early just because of the dark and the
cold. As the light fades, fairy lights can brighten up your evening garden. These can be extremely effective in creating a cosy, charming and
romantic atmosphere for your guests to enjoy. To keep your guests warm, why not
set up seating around a small campfire or wood burner - perhaps the perfect end to any garden party? Our Garden Party, Keeping Chills at Bay Pinterest board has some great ideas.
Want to take your garden party to the next level? A luxury Garden Building can be a focal point built to your exact requirements. It can even be delivered and installed for free by an expert member of the team, as part of our all-inclusive service. We can customise all of our garden buildings, so maybe get inspired by visiting one of our UK Show Centres?
If you have any questions for the team, please do get in touch with us.