Garden parties are undeniably a charming way to celebrate an event. You can have an elegant afternoon tea, a summer BBQ or even a birthday brunch. Surrounded by fresh blooms, outdoor garden parties are perfect for having a relaxing event outdoors. The outdoor atmosphere of a garden party is no match for an indoor event. To ensure your garden party goes smoothly and hassle-free, you need to plan accordingly.
If you are not sure where or how to begin, we have you covered. Here is a list of steps you can take to host a successful garden party. Follow these 7 simple and easy steps to impress your guests:
1. Choose a Theme and Plan Around It
Every event requires a theme to tie it up together and create an immersive experience for the guests. It does not have to be fancy; deciding on a colour scheme or seasonal inspiration can help you plan your event around it. Some of the famous themes include spring pastels or rustic summer vibes. You can then decide the decor, dress code, and food based on the theme you finalise.
Once you settle on a theme, you can decide the design of the invitations, overall garden decor, and even the table setup. You must also be confident about the theme you decide to avoid any last-minute confusions.
2. Set Up the Right Furniture and Layout
Comfort and functionality are two important factors when it comes to organising outdoor garden parties. Ask yourself a few basic questions. Will my guests sit down for a meal, or would they like to mingle with cocktails in their hands? Will there be a photobooth setup, or will there be live music playing?
One smart way to encourage socialising among guests is to consider a poseur table hire. These tall cocktail tables are ideal for events where guests prefer to stand and mingle. These are also suitable spots for guests to rest their food plates while they communicate.
Other than that, make sure to provide sufficient seating options for those who need them. You will also have to arrange shady spots at the venue, which you will require umbrellas, pergolas or large trees. All of these options will help provide relief from direct sunlight, especially during the summer.
3. Get Your Garden Party-Ready
A professionally landscaped garden is not essential to host an outdoor event. However, a little touch-up here and there can change the entire look. Start with mowing the lawn and trimming overgrown plants. Next, you can sweep paths and patios and add a few potted plants, provided you need to add some colour to your event.
Lighting is another factor to consider, especially if you are planning to host an evening event. You can put some string fairy lights on the tree or the fences. Other options include placing lanterns on tables or solar-powered garden stakes to give a warm glow. These not only set the ambience but also ensure the guests can move around safely in the dark.
4. Create a Tasty and Themed Menu
A good event requires the selection of food and drinks. For a garden party, you would want to think of something fresh, light and seasonal. Finger foods, mini sandwiches, fruits, grazing platters and summer salads are some of the popular options to choose from. If you are hosting a barbecue party, then you will have to finalise your menu in advance so you do not spend the entire event near the grill.
Including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is also important. Non-alcoholic drink options include lemonades, spritzers, iced teas, and cocktails. You can even consider setting up a self-service station where the guests can help themselves to get drinks.
5. Plan Entertainment and Activities
An outdoor garden party in a beautiful setting is entertainment enough for the guests. However, adding activities can keep the energy alive. Music is important; You can curate a playlist and play it through Bluetooth speakers. Alternatively, you can also hire a musician who can play live acoustic guitar. The background music should play at a low volume so the conversations can easily happen.
You can even add a few simple games and activities, especially if you have kids as guests. Some examples of outdoor games include ring toss, cornhole or a DIY photo booth with props. If there is a large empty space, you can even set up a projector for a movie night after the sun sets.
6. Prepare for the Weather
The weather is a factor that is not in human control. However, you can prepare for it beforehand. Check the weather forecast a few days before the event, just so you have a backup plan in hand. If you notice rain or sunny weather in the forecast, consider hiring a marquee or canopy.
If the weather forecast predicts cool evenings, consider bringing extra blankets. A few outdoor heaters can also be arranged if the party is stretching into the night. In summary, you must be prepared for any type of weather that the day brings. Your primary goal should be the comfort of your guests.
7. Add Thoughtful Details
Little details always leave a lasting impression. You can consider printing menus or name cards to give a formal feeling to a casual event. You can keep a basket of insect repellent wipes or sunscreen at the entrance. Cute paper fans can also be offered to the guests to help them cool down during a sunny event.
You can even greet the guests as they arrive and have the music playing. Such tactics help guests navigate easily in the venue easily. These tiny touches help guests to feel important, and they elevate the feel of your party too.
Bonus Tips
- Don’t take the entire burden on your shoulders alone. You can take help to set up, greet guests or serve drinks.
- You must keep in mind that not everything goes perfectly, and that is okay. You must stay relaxed and just focus your energy on creating a good vibe for the guests.
- You can set up a few labelled bins for the guests so that after the party, cleanup does not become a nightmare for you.
Final Thoughts
Hosting an outdoor garden party is one of the best ways to bring people together, socialise and enjoy good food. With the help of a clear theme, correct setup, creativity and backyard, you can easily create a venue that is perfect to make unforgettable memories. Always remember, it is not about perfecting an event; it is about building connections.
