Planning on throwing a summer soiree to remember? From garden gatherings to extravagant outdoor parties, the warm, sunny weather and long, light evenings make it the perfect time of year to get friends and family together to celebrate – whether it’s in honour of a special occasion, or simply because the mood strikes.
When money is no object, it’s simple enough to create a show-stopping event that your guests will be talking about for many months to come – and a glamorous venue or simple yet beautifully decorated outdoor space, delectable cuisine and the kind of entertainment that gets everyone in the mood are all key ingredients of a summer party to remember.
As with most things in life though, the devil is in the detail. Here, we take a look at how to create an ambiance of opulence and a truly impressive luxury event that everyone will enjoy to the full.
The perfect ambience
To set the stage for an unforgettable summer party, getting the ambience right is essential, and from the decor to the lighting, every detail will go towards creating an atmosphere that exudes the utmost in luxury and sophistication. Whatever vibe you have in mind – whether it’s a quintessentially English garden party, a laid-back festival feel (we’re talking the VIP section, of course) or a decadent dinner party, you’ll want to ensure that your guests feel comfortable throughout.
Dim mood lighting and flowing drapes will inject an instant shot of glamour, while plush scatter cushions and outdoor rugs can offer a casual and welcoming seating area where guests can sit and chat. If you’re keen to get everyone up and dancing at some point then having a designated dance floor is a must, while for sit down dining, a beautifully laid-up table, complete with ornate settings and elegant tableware, where everyone can eat together will ensure a social atmosphere throughout.
For added luxury appeal, enhance the space with stylish lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers or string lights, and splurge on lush floral arrangements in the form of stunning table centrepieces or dramatic archways to welcome your guests through as they arrive.
Decadent cuisine
An exceptional luxury party requires a culinary experience that matches the elegance of the occasion, which is why bringing in experienced caterers or hiring a private chef is a great move that will alleviate you of the stress of preparing it all yourself, and guarantee some truly show-stopping results. You’ll have no trouble finding luxury event catering in London and many chefs and caterers will be happy to travel with you to wherever your event happens to be.
A Michelin-starred chef would of course be the ideal, but professionals with a proven track record in providing mouth-watering food and drink for events will be able to create a custom menu featuring gourmet delicacies and unique creations designed especially for you and your guests. From sumptuous canapés to serve with champagne as everyone arrives, to decadent appetizers and main courses and delectable desserts for sit down soirees, your wish is their command.
To create a more sociable atmosphere, consider incorporating interactive food stations or live cooking demonstrations into the event – and offer up a carefully curated selection of fine wines, craft cocktails, and champagne, served by professional bartenders who can craft bespoke drinks tailored to individual preferences.
Extravagant entertainment
Nothing is worse than the kind of party where the atmosphere fizzles out early on, which is why ensuring you’ve got some quality entertainment up your sleeve is key to making it a night to remember. To ensure your choice aligns with the luxury feel you’re striving to create, opt for something classy – a jazz band or a renowned DJ are guaranteed to get everyone up and dancing, while casino games with a live dealer are a great way to get people chatting to one another and cheering each other on.
Acrobats and dancers are another tasteful option – think of the kind you see at high-end hotels in Ibiza – and having them perform in the background throughout the night will ensure there is always a talking point. If you’ll be throwing a pool party, then make this the centrepiece of the event so that people can continue to enjoy the entertainment whilst in the water – set up a stage in front of it and provide floating loungers, with waiter service to keep guests’ drinks topped up without them having to get out and head to the bar.
Providing luxurious amenities like designer sun loungers, plush towels, and dedicated concierge service will all add an extra touch of opulence, because after all, it’s the small details that really count.
