As summer fast approaches, and we begin to see the first glimpse of warm sunny weather, so too do our opportunities for fun activities outdoors enjoying the summer sun, weekend trips to the coast to dip our toes in the sea, and the annual summer holiday to bask in the glorious sun of countries further afield. But the joys of this golden season can be reaped just as well from the comfort of your own back garden.
What better way to enjoy the long days than with a bit of alfresco dining with friends and family, absorbing as much vitamin D as possible, whilst treating yourself to a lovely spread of canapés and freshly mixed beverages? Here at LLM – Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, we have compiled a summer guide to get you going on your seasonal party planning, making sure you have considered all you need to for the most elegant and sophisticated garden party of the year.
The drinks
There is no better company for a sophisticated garden party than a fully stocked table of the best summer drinks. Whether you are someone who favours a fruity punch, a bubbly pink lemonade and elderflower cordial, or indulging in a refreshing gin and tonic or mimosa, making sure your tables are stocked with something for everyone is the key to a great party.
When it comes to serving your drinks, we suggest you bring out all the bells and whistles to dress them up in some beautifully decorated glasses. Try prepping your ice in some fun shaped trays the evening before; add edible glitter to your mixers to make your drinks shimmer in the sun; coat your glass rims in sherbet or Pop Rocks for a little sugar kick; team your beverages with fruit slices and flowers for a true summer aesthetic; and, of course, for those guests who are sippers rather than gulpers, finesse your drink options with reusable and organic bamboo straws that tie in perfectly with a rustic garden party vibe.
The food
While drinks might be the priority for you at this year’s summer garden party, guests will no doubt be craving something more substantial to fill their stomachs with when the evening rolls around.
Alfresco dining brings with it many different menu possibilities; from a good, old-fashioned barbeque, to a buffet-style feast, to an elegant selection of canapes, whatever arrangement you opt for, make sure your tasty treats hit all the right cravings and are fit for the summer season.
Guests are sure to love some lighter options like fresh fruit or vegetable platters accompanied with creamy and zesty dips; coupled with warm, home-made focaccia or ciabatta bread and olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing; and of course, a selection of guilty pleasures like bite-sized cheesecakes with berry compote. To really show off your hostess skills, ensure you include a range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options so your party caters to the needs of all your guests.
The vibe
Curating the right aesthetic for your party is very important as this can influence the mood and atmosphere of the entire occasion.
Do not overlook your décor! Take some time to consider your lighting and the placement of your furniture; if you are considering a theme, make sure your decorations are fitting for this and bring out the best features of your garden; when it comes to organising your food and drink tables, be sure you place them in a spot that creates a natural flow to the event, making it easy for guests to enter the party, grab a refreshment, and proceed to a spot that encourages relaxing and mingling.
Finally, put some real thought into your musical accompaniment. As your guests are sure to have been wowed when it comes to their sense of taste and sight, it is only fitting you continue to wow their eardrums as well. Whether you are using a trusty playlist, or you have splashed out on a live acoustic band, the music should promote the happy, carefree mood of the summer season, the cherry on top of a wonderfully sophisticated summer garden drinks party.
