Tips And Tricks For A Successful Summer Party
Summer is the time to gather with friends and family and simply have some fun. Whether you are planning a simple cocktail soirée, or going for broke with a get together that will feature a full orchestra we have some great tips and tricks to make sure that your outside party impresses even the most jaded of your guests.
1. Keep it Tidy
The first step to ensuring that your outdoor space is the perfect location for that unforgettable party is to make sure that everything is neat and tidy. Deadhead flowers, sweep the deck and rake the lawn (after mowing it of course), and store kiddies’ toys or anything that is not essential to the success of the get-together (like gardening tools).
A tidy, open space will allow you to exercise your imagination as far as decor is concerned.
Learn more: ‘10 Summer garden activities with the grandkids‘
2. Seating Certainty
Always have a good idea of the number of guests that you are expecting (RSVPs can help). This impacts on your seating arrangements. You need to ensure that everyone has somewhere to sit – and interact with other guests. Less formal parties will have people wander from group to group, or sample the hors d’oeuvre selection, but they’ll probably be standing most of the time. A dinner party will require careful planning and a set seating arrangement.
New garden furniture can cost a pretty penny, but outlets like IKEA have some excellent value for money stacking stools. Seat covers will enhance their appearance, or exercise your creativity and go Middle Eastern or Asian – or even go informal with some wooden pallets.
Learn More: ’15 barbeque hacks you definitely need to try’
3. Heated Issue
Shade is essential if you are having a daytime party. Firstly it shelters guests and keeps them comfortable and secondly, it protects food from the harsh glare of the sunshine – no one likes a wilted salad. An oversize parasol above the table will do the trick. You could also try a sheet draped over the patio structure (if it is open and has a roof frame), or purchase a collapsible shelter, they offer great value for money and are easy to erect.
Learn More: ‘5 tips for a healthier summer barbeque’
4. Sound Advice
Music is an absolute must for any garden party. it sets the mood and uplifts the spirit – it enhances the joys of summer.
A portable Bluetooth speaker is your perfect solution. Your guests do not need to be blown away, they just need something gentle in the background. Your phone can supply the playlist. A great choice is the Aglow Bluetooth speaker which is a bargain at £94.95, from Cuckooland. Bonus, it also serves as a portable LED light.
Peruse our latest music reviews
5. Light up your Life
Your garden will be transformed after sunset with strings of decorative lights. They definitely enhance the mood. String them along the fence or festoon them on some shrubbery – or the patio support structures. Lanterns are another retro touch that can enhance the mood. Electric or the soft glow of long-lasting candles (aromatherapy candles can be great).
Garden torches can also make your garden shines in the dark. The citronella types offer both a pleasing scent and keep biting insects at bay. For a fun twist grab light up bubbles, swords, guns and wands.
Great idea: Allsorts string bulb lights, £13.99, Talking Tables
6. Decorate for the Occasion
Setting a theme for a garden party can help to elevate the mood of all guests. A summer party also needs table decorations that bring a sense of fun to the proceedings. Style counts – so make the extra effort, but remember, exercise your creativity and always add a personal touch. Coordinate crockery and cutlery or go eclectic. Don’t be afraid to turn to Melamine plates, they’re tough, attractive and easy to clean). Add napkins and matching serving bowls and you have a great look.
Speaking of easy to clean don’t turn your nose up at PVC tablecloths. easy to wipe down in time for the next party.
7. Break out the Cocktails
Cocktails lubricate conversation. Adult beverages served at a garden bar are perfect. Aim for refreshing and light summer-style cocktails. You can act as a bar tender or let the guests get creative and mic their own unique cocktail creations.
Glassware with a touch of fun adds to the enjoyment – and given that glassware almost inevitably gets dropped, plastic is also a great idea. Add some funky and lighthearted straws/cocktail stirrers – and don’t forget those slices of fresh fruit as a garnish.
Great Idea: Kilner blue five-litre drinks dispenser, £20; eight-litre drinks dispenser, £30; Home Collection basics white starburst hi-ball glasses, £6 for four, all Debenhams
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
