Everything You Need for a Chilled-Out Summer Garden Party
For many of us, one of the best things about summer is chilling in the garden with friends and family. Whether it’s a formal party or a more relaxed BBQ, there’s something wonderful about enjoying a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine. Here’s a look at everything you need for a chilled-out summer garden party.
Seating
The first thing that you should consider is seating. Your current outdoor seating might be enough if it’s just your household and a few others. But if you invite other friends and family, you might want to consider alternative seating options. Bringing indoor dining chairs outside is a great option, but things like beanbags, picnic blankets, and outdoor rugs and cushions can be nice too.
Decorations
You don’t need decorations to spend a relaxed afternoon in the garden. But if you are celebrating a special occasion or just want to create a party atmosphere, adding decorations can effectively set the tone. Things like bunting and fairy lights can look fantastic outdoors.
Lights
Even in summer, if you want to be able to enjoy a late night in the garden, you need lights. Solar lights are readily available now and can look fantastic.
Blankets and Cushions
The weather can be very unpredictable, even in summer. Adding things like cushions and blankets to your outdoor chairs or in a pile somewhere safe can help your guests to stay warm even if the weather isn’t what you were hoping for.
Finger Foods and BBQ Delights
Eating outdoors can be lovely, but it can also be challenging at times, and you won’t want to be tucking into big formal meals if you want to enjoy outdoor games and easy conversation. Finger foods like sandwiches, crudites, and dips and chips are tasty, easy to eat, and perfect in warm weather.
Another option, of course, is getting the BBQ out. If you do, make sure you’ve got enough food for everyone, or ask people to bring something and pre-prepare things like salads and bread.
Ice Cream
Tasty ice cream from a micro-creamery can be a fantastic addition to any summer garden party. It’ll cool you all down if it’s hot and be a fantastic treat for your guests. Make sure you’ve got some dairy-free options for any vegans.
Refreshing Drinks
Another must for any garden party is drinks. The drinks that you choose should depend on the guests that you invite. For alcohol, consider what people like and include cocktails and gin and tonics, which are very refreshing. Then, make sure you’ve got non-alcoholic options, including water, fizzy drinks, and juice for children and non-drinkers.
Outdoor Games
You might think that you’ll have plenty to talk about, but adding entertainment options like outdoor games can help break the ice and liven things up later when people are tired.
Music
Music is another way to set the tone. Just make sure the tunes are upbeat and summery and that you are considerate of your neighbors, especially when it gets late.
An outdoor garden party is the perfect way to spend a summer’s day. With these essentials, you’ll have everything you need for a fun summer party.
