Many people in Nottinghamshire will be looking forward to the official start of summer on June 21, as it hopefully means that the warmer weather and sunshine is here to stay. Many of us may already be thinking of dusting off the BBQ, getting out the deck chairs and hosting a garden gathering in the next couple of months, as a way to reconnect with friends and family.
But if you're planning to have guests over for a party in the sunshine, what do you need to organise to ensure you have the perfect get together? Garden Buildings Direct have shared some tips and expert advice on how to organise a summer garden party that both you and your guests will be able to enjoy.
“With summer just around the corner, garden parties will be popping up across the UK," A spokesperson for the company said: “It’s about taking the time to prepare the small details in advance for your guest that make the overall garden party one to remember. If you leave things until the last minute, you may not get a chance to prepare for potential mishaps or have the opportunity to make your garden look special for the event.”
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Here are the top tips recommended to prepare for your summer garden party:
- Make sure you have enough tables and chairs to seat your guests
Sometimes when you're hosting a large gathering, it's easy to forget how many people will be attending. But it’s important to double check your numbers and make sure you have enough seats and also enough tables for people to sit at, this way everyone can relax and eat their food comfortably.
- Plan for any potential weather changes
As we all know the British weather is notoriously unpredictable and if in doubt, have a plan in place for any slight change that could occur during your party. This could just be ensuring you have shelter to protect guests against any brief showers and also make sure you have some shade if it gets too warm and some guests need to cool down, out of the heat.
- Prepare for pests
Once the sun starts to set, many of us will have bugs that start swarming and even during the day many insects will inevitably be attracted to any food and drink you have on the table. During the day, you can cover up any food left left on tables. Purchasing citronella candles will help to repel bugs and also provide atmospheric lighting - perfect for evening dining.
- Double check your guests’ allergies and food preferences
Ahead of the party, it's best to ask all your guests if they have any allergies and/or food preferences - for example if they're vegan, vegetarian or have a nut allergy. All of these things can help you prepare in advance and allow you to serve up food suitable for your guests and also avoids any last minute panic buying.
- Prepare decorations in advance
It doesn't have to be a huge amount of decoration, but things like hanging up bunting or fairy lights can add atmospheric lighting. You could also consider choosing a colour scheme so everything matches and it will also help with picking flowers and patterned napkins to go on the table. Don't leave all your decorations till last minute either, as you'll want to spend time cooking, greeting guests and making drinks so ensure all your decorations are hung or prepared at least the day before.
- Prepare a music playlist
Picking the right music will set the mood for your garden party. Looking for civilised atmosphere? Then you might want to prepare a setlist of classical music or instrumental songs. Or if you're garden party guests are old friends, provide some well-loved classics to bring back memories.
- Don't forget refreshing beverages
Bottled drinks are a great way to let your guests choose their own beverage but you could also make some homemade cocktails to offer to guests on arrival - Mojito's are a great option for summer, especially if you grow mint in your garden. You might also want to consider that some of your guests won't want to drink alcohol, so preparing things like Mocktails or having a range of non-alcoholic beverages available will ensure you have drinks suitable for all your guests.
- Decide on a dress code
It might be worth mentioning a dress code when you invite your guests over. This will avoid anyone feeling embarrassed if they're over or underdressed. You could also choose a theme to add a fun twist to the evening!
- Label essential areas or items
If you're having a lot of guests over, it may be easier if you add labels to anything you think they might go in search for. For example, place labels on the cutlery drawer, the spare ice bucket and condiments to make things accessible to others and will save all the questions as guests will be able to help themselves.
