How To Organise The Perfect Garden Party
As we edge from spring to summer, a good barbecue or garden party is on everybody’s list of priorities. Gathering with your nearest and dearest in the back garden on a sunny day is an ideal way to welcome the warmer weather, with good food and plenty of refreshing beverages. If you’ve never hosted a garden party, the prospect may seem a little overwhelming, particularly if you have a large family or extensive group of friends. Here is a guide to throwing the perfect party to guarantee a memorable experience for all.
Do Some Last Minute Gardening
Make sure your outdoor space is clean, safe and presentable by doing a touch of last-minute gardening. You don’t need to redesign your plot completely, but a bit of weeding, trimming and pruning can do wonders. Make sure your guests have plenty of space to mingle without becoming tangled in overhanging branches or caught in unruly, overgrown beds. You could even rent a jet wash and give your patio and pathways a thorough blasting.
Set Up Plenty Of Seating
Every party should have plenty of comfortable seating. Depending on the number of guests you are expecting, you may need to borrow extra seating from friends and neighbours, as there is no need to purchase new garden furniture for the sake of a single event. You don’t need to worry about aesthetics. Camping chairs, deckchairs, benches, even your indoor dining furniture - it won’t matter as long as your guests have plenty of room to sit and socialise.
Decide On The Menu
Your menu for the evening will depend on several factors, including the size of your party, the weather forecast and your budget. For instance, if you’re expecting a large number of guests and your budget is relatively modest, a good old-fashioned barbecue may be the perfect crowd-pleasing option. Alternatively, if you’re only inviting a small handful of close friends and relatives, you could prepare a selection of delicious finger food options, such as sandwiches, pastries and crudités, or go all out with a luxurious charcuterie board.
Cater To Everyone
When deciding on your food and drink options, remember your guests' dietary requirements. Along with the rising prevalence of vegetarianism and veganism, you may be hosting guests who avoid certain foods due to allergies or religious reasons. The best way to ensure your menu is inclusive is to simply ask for information regarding dietary requirements and restrictions when sending out invitations. This way, you can accommodate all of your visitors without the awkwardness of having nothing to offer them.
Set The Ambience
The ambience is what makes the party. You may not have given it much thought previously, but a little effort regarding mood and decorations can go a long way. A comfortable, welcoming, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere invites guests to relax and enjoy themselves. Hang up some fairy lights, play some background music and provide plenty of shade from the sun if you’re hosting your party on a hot day.
Keep The Drinks Flowing
Every good party has a steady supply of refreshments. You can be the host with the most by supplying plenty of good-quality, weather-appropriate beverages. For instance, a mild spring/summer garden party calls for zesty rosé wine, chilled beer and refreshing cocktails. You could even set up your own gin and tonic station with varying flavours of tonic, fresh fruit and syrups so your guests can make their own drinks precisely to their liking.
Provide Warmth
As the day turns to night, your guests will start to get chilly, even if the midday sunshine is scorching. Save your visitors from shivering by providing blankets and throws so you can carry on partying comfortably. If the low temperature becomes a little too overwhelming, you could always head indoors to continue the evening. You could even purchase a garden fire pit for your guests to huddle around.
Keep The Kids Entertained
If you’re planning on inviting your guests’ children to your garden party, keeping them entertained will be crucial. While they may be perfectly happy to play with one another and entertain themselves, providing toys and games will make their experience much more enjoyable. Consider setting up some party games suitable for all ages so everybody can join in on the fun.