Garden Party Help Guide
Garden Party Help Guide
Posted by Fortunoff Backyard Store
Gather outside together.
There's nothing quite like a garden party to celebrate the warm weather and create good memories with friends and family. Now is the perfect time to invite over some guests and enjoy the spring blooms.
Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large event, there are a few things you'll need to do to make sure your patio party is a success.
Step 1: Plan Ahead
The first step to hosting a successful garden party is to plan ahead. Start by choosing a date and time. When selecting a time and date for your party, it's best to consider the weather.
You'll want to pick a day that's likely to be sunny and warm. A courteous host would also be mindful of their guests' schedules. If there are people you'd like to invite who often travel, it's beneficial to choose a time that works with everyone's schedule.
Step 2: Send Out Invitations
Once you've chosen a date and time, it's time to send out invitations. Be sure to include details such as the date, time, location, and dress code. People will appreciate the thoughtfulness of a mailed invitation, but emails and even group chats can make people feel special and included.
Step 3: Prepare Your Backyard
If you're hosting your party in your backyard, don't forget to prepare your patio in advance. Mowing the lawn, weeding the flower beds, and planting fresh flowers are great places to start. You'll also want to set up outdoor dining tables and patio chairs. Depending on how many guests you plan on having, a large patio table may be your only option.
However, we recommend investing in an extendable outdoor dining table for added functionality. Our extendable patio tables can seat anywhere from four to twelve people and are easy to use. Plus, they come in a variety of material options. From cast aluminum to teak, you have plenty to choose from that will match your unique style.
Next, you want to make sure you have enough chairs. Stackable outdoor chairs work in a pinch when accommodating larger parties, but we love an environment with mixed seating. A patio sofa or an outdoor loveseat will promote mingling while keeping your guests comfortable. Pair either with an outdoor coffee table to create surface area for drinks, snacks, or outdoor activities.
If you plan on having more than twelve guests, we recommend investing in an additional table. A folding table is great to have on hand, or if your space allows, another patio dining table. Renting extra tables and chairs can also work in a pinch if your budget allows for it.
You may also want to set up a gazebo, pergola, or canopy in case of rain. A table umbrella will provide some coverage and sun protection, but again, depending on the size of your group, a cantilever umbrella or pergola may be your best option since they provide the most shade.
Step 4: Decorate
Once your garden is prepped and ready and the backyard furniture is set, it's time to decorate. We love a flower arrangement in a vase as a centerpiece. In fact, at a garden party, there's no such thing as too many flowers. Table settings can also do a lot to elevate your event. A placemat will protect your patio furniture from spills and stains.
Pair your placemat with a charger plate, and you can make your backyard gathering feel like patio seating at a fine dining restaurant. Take your tablescape a step further with melamine dining plates and outdoor glasses. Our outdoor dishware is reusable, shatterproof, and dishwasher-safe. They make hosting a breeze and help reduce the amount of trash you have to deal with at the end of the night.
Step 5: Food & Drink
No garden party is complete without food and drinks, so don't skip menu planning! Some popular garden party foods include finger sandwiches, salads, fruit, and cake. For beverages, we love lemonade, iced tea, and sparkling water. Mimosas will be a hit with adult guests, and to keep your bubbles chilled, make sure you don't forget the ice bucket.
Step 6: Entertainment
If you want to keep your guests entertained, you may want to hire a band or a DJ if your budget allows. An outdoor speaker is another great option. You can even ask your guests to submit songs so everyone has a hand in the party ambiance. Add some lawn games like croquet or bocce, maybe even a build-your-own-bouquet station, and suddenly, you have a great garden party on your hands.
Let us know how these tips worked for you. Want to keep up-to-date on our next party planning blog? Subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us on social media.
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