With warmer weather around the corner, we are dreaming of spring and, even more especially, garden parties! For everybody from women who lunch to cocktail-shaking couples, fun at home is much better when it involves the fantastic outdoors. Check out these tips for making guests feel welcome from the moment they walk through the garden gate.
ROOMS & BLOOMS
Perhaps it’s the Southerner in us, but making garden party guests feel welcome right from the beginning is essential. A gorgeous gate like this can’t help but make a partygoer feel unique. Top it off with an elegant wreath or ribbon to make the welcome much sexier.
More garden gates
Deborah Cerbone Associates, Inc..
It goes without mentioning that among the most important elements of an outdoor event is the landscaping. An intricately designed yard like this one is perfect for entertaining, particularly when a server mingles to make sure everyone’s mint julep stays complete.
Slater Associates Landscape Architects
Both on the floor and on the dining table, blossoms are the centerpiece of the perfect garden party. In spring, once the garden is in full bloom, keep the table blossoms easy and fresh, with a palette that matches the yard without matching perfectly. In the event the posies come from your own garden.
The Collins Group/JDP Design
Planning for shade and shelter from the rain is crucial. A beautiful covered terrace like this one is wonderful, however in case your outdoor entertaining space is not quite as large, try a tent. Add sides and you’ve got an excellent way to keep an outdoor party warm in winter also.
John Kraemer & Sons
What a spectacular spot to state wedding vows! Or, if no one is getting married, this is a terrific spot to mix, mingle or decide on a table to get a dozen or so. With outdoor diningtable, creating ambience is essential. Keep it simple and tasteful with neutral linens and candlelight, or mix it up with fun prints and bright colours. In an area that this luscious, you truly can’t go wrong.
K West Images, Interior and Garden Photography
Whether you’re arranging a sit-down event or just cocktails and sunshine, decent seating is essential. Comfy loveseats like these are fabulous if you have them, however a few well-placed chairs across the garden should be plenty. For a sit-down outdoor affair, choose chairs having an open rear. The last thing you need is a seat to take away from the splendor of the outdoors everybody is there to enjoy.
The Collins Group/JDP Design
If the kitchen is the center of the home, then the food is the core of the party. An outdoor cooking space makes entertaining a pleasure and grilling staples like steaks and veggies that a cinch. If cooking while mingling is not your thing, keep it easy. Prepare foods before the party that do not have to be kept warm. That way, once the meal is served you can concentrate on your guests instead of running back and forth to the kitchen.
Crisp Architects
For chillier evenings, there is a fire a wonderful touch. An outdoor fireplace like this one generates ambience and provides guests a place to heat their fingers. If you do not have an integrated fireplace, portable fire pits are inexpensive and as warm, and they are available in lots of colour and style options to suit every preference. Additionally, roasting marshmallows is a great way to end the night, especially when children are involved.
Browse photos of outdoor entertaining spaces
More:
50 Great Designs for a Garden Party
Design Your Perfect Outdoor Kitchen