How to Host a Garden Party People Will Love
When you’re throwing a backyard party, you should keep one word in mind: effortless. Does this mean you shouldn’t put much effort in? Of course not! But you want your guests to feel comfortable and at ease, and your setup to have a rustic, almost wild element to it. You’re out in nature, after all. This means flower arrangements that are cheerful, bright, and maybe a little thrown together. Think flowers or even just greenery of different heights arranged casually in mismatched mason jars and vases. Cover tables with bright, rough-hewn tablecloths and napkins. While you want to embrace the outdoors, you also want your guests to feel comfortable. The best way to do this is to create a “room” in your garden. Lay down rugs and blankets on the ground. Put up an open tent or awning to create a shady spot (it’s not much fun to eat in the hot, afternoon sun). String Christmas lights or light rows of tiki torches and candles to keep the space light after the sun sets. If you want a slightly more formal affair, you can set a dining table, but many guests will be just as happy sitting on pillows and cushions over rugs – people love the feel of a real picnic. A couple of Bluetooth speakers scattered around the garden will keep the music going all day.
More Garden Party Ideas
You don’t want your food to be too complicated or hard to eat, especially if you’re going to be sitting on the ground. Set a big, buffet-style table with mostly finger foods, but include one “main” dish like fish or roast beef to make it feel like a real meal. Choosing a specific theme is helpful too. While everyone loves a barbecue, preparing food ahead of time will give you more time to socialize and enjoy your party. You may want to put netting or decorative mesh covers over your food to protect it from bugs. Drinks can be as simple or as complicated as you want them. Bottled beer, soda, and rosé are great, while pitchers of iced tea, lemonade, and mixed drinks give a personal, more artisanal touch. Remember, whatever you decide to do, keep things bright, light, and easy.
