Take Advantage of Summer While You Still Can By Hosting A Stylish Garden Party: Here’s How
Summer might be winding down, but while the long days and warm temperatures are still here, you should make the most of it. And there’s no better way to do this than by hosting a summer garden party.
Whether it’s a casual gathering with close friends or a more elaborate soirée, here’s everything you need to know about hosting a stylish summer garden party that will leave all of your guests impressed.
The Big Question: Food
There’s no one right answer when it comes to what to serve at garden parties. Instead, you have two main umbrella options.
On the one hand, you can stick to small bites that everyone knows and loves. Just be sure to have plenty of these appetizers to go around for your guests to pick on throughout the afternoon. Think of things like crostinis, sliders, dips, deviled eggs, pastries, or mini frittatas.
Or, you can serve a more traditional sit-down coursed meal. If you opt for the latter, it’s important to start with light appetizers that encompass the bright and airy mood. You may choose to include bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, or a refreshing salad. You can even have a cheese and charcuterie board for guests to nibble on as they mingle.
When it comes to the main course, just keep it simple yet elegant. Dishes like grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or vegetable kebabs are excellent choices, and you can simply serve these main dishes with sides of summer salads or roasted vegetables.
Finally, desserts should be refreshing at garden parties. You can serve something citrusy like a lemon sorbet or a fruit tart.
If you’re feeling creative, you could even create a DIY ice cream bar to provide your guests with a cool-down opportunity in the heat.
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Cocktails Are Key
A fun way to pull your garden party together and really set the vibe is by going with a signature cocktail.
This can be anything you like, as long as it’s not too heavy. Some classic options include mojitos, margaritas, and sangria.
Providing a selection of white wines or rosés that are chilled, as well as light beers, is also a good idea to ensure you satisfy all of your guests’ tastes.
Lastly, don’t forget to have some non-alcoholic beverage options such as lemonade, iced tea, or infused water.
Don’t Skip The Decor
The most crucial factor that elevates summer garden parties from regular dinners is the decor.
When it comes to deciding on a color scheme, choose a bright and fresh color palette that resonates with the season, like pastels or floral patterns. If you are growing new blooms in your garden, you could even use their hues as inspiration.
As for table settings, you also want to add some elegance. But this doesn’t mean you have to break the bank.
Even just adding cloth napkins can raise the caliber of your dinner party, as well as fresh flowers either from the florist or picked from your own garden. Plus, you don’t need fine china. You could instead use some chic disposable plates that match your color scheme.
You’ll also want to pay attention to your dinner party’s intended start time and consider how late your guests will be staying. If you know they will be lingering after sunset, be sure to create an inviting atmosphere that doesn’t go totally dark.
You can achieve this by stringing lights and lanterns or by simply lighting some mood-setting candles.
Pay Attention To The Details
There are also other little details to keep in mind as you plan your summer garden party that can really help the whole gathering come together.
First, when you send out invitations, be sure to give guests a direction for their attire. Are you thinking of more relaxed vibes or dressy summer clothes? Whatever it is, let them know in advance.
To make things a bit more comfortable and personal, you can also consider making personalized name cards for your seating arrangements, giving away thoughtful favors like mini succulents, and offering plenty of blankets in case things get chilly in the evening.
If you know that kids will be in attendance, you can create a little children’s corner, too. Stock it with games or activities to keep them entertained so their parents can sit back and relax a bit.
Finally, don’t forget to stock up on citronella candles or bug spray. You don’t want to let pesky insects annoy your guests and ruin your day.
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