Decorating for garden party

10 lovely looks for outdoor celebrations |

(Image credit: Future)

Garden party ideas are the perfect way to celebrate the warm weather in style. 

In the middle of summer, you’ll want to spend every moment possible outside. Whereas in the fall, sometimes nothing can be better than cozying up around a fire with friends to enjoy the crisp air. There are ways to make a garden party decor work for (nearly!) any time of year or space available.

So, from intimate moments to family extravaganzas, we’ve curated our favorite garden party decoration ideas for every type of party.

Garden party ideas

Whether you’re simply taking the family outside for dinner, or hosting a big group of friends, bringing things outside creates a new and fresh dynamic for your garden party ideas. And unlike garden decorating ideas, which will make your space feel unique year-round, these ideas will create a celebratory feel, whatever the occasion. 

1. Narrow down your theme

(Image credit: Talking Tables)

Deciding on a theme or color scheme early on can be a good starting point when it comes to planning a garden party. It can be as broad or as specific as you like - from roses and chintz to a Mad Hatter’s tea party - but having a theme can help to pull the party decor together visually and be a big help when picking out tableware, food and decorations. 

‘Why not choose a seasonal color scheme based on the color combination of flowers in your garden,’ says Jo Jeffery, Head of Brand Development at Talking Tables . ‘For our shoots we also try to use in-season produce – so while you may only want a few blooms for a couple of bud vases, why not think about what’s currently flowering. And the same goes for food too.’

‘And try to make use of items you already have when it comes to tableware and party decorations, or consider a trip to a thrift shop which can give something once-loved a new life too. It might also create some talking points for the table.’

2. Organise a table plan

(Image credit: Sophie Allport)

Choose a sturdy outdoor table, positioned on a sound base so that it stays stable. Avoid using the lawn if there has been a lot of wet weather, as chair legs might sink into soft ground. Or consider laying a temporary deck using a few wide timber planks laid lengthways.

If your garden table won’t stretch to a larger number of guests, then consider a temporary solution. Long trestle-style tables are easy to set up outdoors and several can be joined together if you need to seat a crowd. Cover up with extra-long white table cloths, prettied up with colorful runners along the center. Once the party is over, tables can be folded and stored away in a garage.

3. Sort the seating arrangements

(Image credit: Susie Watson Designs)

Make garden chairs comfier for guests by adding extra seat pads and cushions and a few knits and blankets to keep things cosy as the sun goes down. Having a stash of folding chairs on standby in the garden shed or garage is always useful too, should you need to seat extra numbers or any last-minute guests.

‘Create a magical setting for a summer’s evening with cushions, throws and candlelight,’ says Susie Watson . ‘It’s always a lovely idea when eating outside, to mix odd chairs from indoors. I love using our upholstered library chairs alongside a Gustavian chair or two. It will add color and interest, creating a jolly and welcoming look.’ 

‘The color palette for my fabric collection is inspired from the plants in the garden,  never be afraid to mix the bright colors alongside the calming tones; they always look wonderful, almost like a flower bed in the middle of the lawn.’

4. Give the table a focal point

(Image credit: Pelargoniums for Europe)

Garden plants and flowers in rustic terracotta planters make a pretty table centrepiece, lined up along the length of a table. Using taller items like pot plants, pitchers filled with florals or cake stands piled high with fancies will give a table arrangement extra height and creates an eye-catching focal point. Or consider using the space above a table for decoration and stringing paper pom poms from the branches of a tree to bring an extra pop of color.

‘Just because the sun sets, doesn’t mean your party needs to,’ says Mary Claire Boyd, Fair Director at Spirit of Summer Fair . ‘Consider draping outdoor festoons or fairy lights amongst trees, shrubs or adorned on fences to create a pretty and effective way of keeping your party going long into the night.’ 

‘Alternatively, candles (real or battery operated) create a wonderful atmosphere and ambiance when dotted around in lanterns or hurricane jars and citronella candles not only provide a fresh aroma but are great for repelling pesky bugs and insects.’

5. Mix and match tableware

(Image credit: Future PLC / David Brittain)

Finding matching tableware to accommodate extra guests can be tricky, but opting for an informal mismatched scheme in jolly brights and clashing florals is an easy way of getting around the problem. Different sets of china can be put together to provide extra place settings, mixing plains and patterns in cheery colors that will bring a relaxed charm to any table.

Using vintage crockery is another easy way of stretching out tableware so that there is plenty to go round. Look out for pretty floral tea cups, saucers, plates and serving dishes at thrift shops or garage sales, building up a characterful collection of mismatched pieces that are perfect for bringing out for parties or special occasions.

6. Make easy table settings

(Image credit: Future PLC / Simon Scarboro)

Using in-season blooms is an inexpensive way of decorating a garden party table and breaking down a large arrangement into separate smaller posies will make your flowers go further.

For an informal display idea, recycle old glass jam jars to display mini posies in. Wrap with brightly colored ribbon and stand one at each place setting. They also make lovely keepsakes for guests to take away afterwards.

7. Try a quick trick with cutlery

(Image credit: Future PLC / Simon Scarboro)

Give vintage cutlery and utensils a new lease of life with vibrant colors spray-painted on the handles. An easy way of co-ordinating mis-matched sets, go for a color combination that complements your table theme and then hand-tie knife, fork and spoons together using lengths of colored bakers’ twine finished with a bow.

For quirky place setting markers, create personalized rosettes for guests using remnants of fabric and offcuts of colored ribbon. Glue a circle of stiff card on to the front of each rosette and inscribe with guests’ names in a fancy font.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Lizzie Orme)

Create a makeshift bar that can be stocked with bottles and glassware so that the main table doesn’t become too crowded. Use a sturdy table covered with a colorful cloth and set in an easy-to-access spot so that guests can help themselves.

‘Being an attentive host does not mean you have to do it all,’ says Mary Claire Boyd.  ‘Having an area for guests to help themselves to drinks is an easy way to make sure you’re not spending all day topping up glasses or mixing cocktails.  

‘A drinks station or table with spirits, glasses, ice and mixers means guests can get creative and make their own concoctions. You can even have a couple of drink dispensers filled with ready prepared cocktails.’

‘Similarly, if you have the time to prepare salads and food in advance, try to do so the night before and then let your friends and family serve themselves. By preparing a few dishes ahead of time, you won’t be hidden away in the kitchen missing the fun outside.’

9. Organize a breakaway area

(Image credit: Future PLC / Simon Scarboro)

Set up a few easy chairs away from the main table area where guests can go to sit and chat or enjoy some quiet time away from the hubbub of the party. Add a parasol or makeshift canopy that will provide shelter from the sun when it's at its hottest.

‘Plan for all weathers,’ advises Mary Claire Boyd. ‘It's always good to have a wet weather plan, should it decide to take a turn for the worst. Do you have space to continue the party inside? Alternatively, can you pitch up a gazebo or marquee in your garden? Think about the "what ifs" so you have a plan B if needed. ’

‘A basket of blankets or throws hung across the backs of chairs also makes it easy for people to grab and use if the evening turns cooler. And a few floor cushions situated on outdoor rugs provide an alternative and inviting place to rest if there are not enough chairs.’ 

10. Set the mood after dark

(Image credit: Lights4fun)

Plan garden party lighting ideas that will take your table from day to night and create a magical mood outside. Position pillar candles and lanterns along the length of your table, ready for lighting after dark, adding nightlights at each place setting to give extra sparkle.

‘For the perfect finishing touch, place connectable string lights overhead to create a magical atmosphere all around,’ says Claire Bassett, Senior Product Manager at Lights4fun . ‘From a singular power source, attach the string lights to overhead branches, shepherd hooks or the beams of a pergola and swag each string back and forth to light up your garden party. ’

‘The warm glow will radiate across your space and create an enchanting ambience so you can celebrate after dusk. Finally, add solar bulbs either to the string of fairy lights or surrounding tree branches, securing them in place with fishing wire. The flair of color will create a rich, vibrant display, perfect for hosting summer celebrations.’

11. Set up for a playful outdoor tea party

(Image credit: Future)

What could be more magical than an afternoon tea party surrounded by friends and the beauty of nature? For an outdoor dining idea with whimsy and wow-factor, position a portable table under a tree in a secluded part of the garden and use the branches overhead to suspend paper pompoms over the table – the perfect garden party idea for a playful festival feel. 

Layer the table with patterned linens and top chairs with plenty of eye-catching seat-pads cushions. Bring the table to life with jugs of fresh flowers and arrange treats on tiered cake stands for a classic afternoon tea feel – these will also bring height to your spread, too.  

12. Create a pretty place setting with vintage finds

(Image credit: Emma Bridgewater)

For a quirky, homespun look which is easy to create, why not use what you have and layer up a selection of vintage floral, block-printed and lace-edged tablecloths with mix and match crockery, glassware and cutlery? For a feminine flourish tie cutlery with ribbon and dot about plenty of freshly cut garden flowers.

13. Create a fabric awning

(Image credit: Susie Watson Designs)

A garden awning is a perfect shade garden idea against the midday sun during summer lunches – for a pretty country twist try making one using classic striped fabric as demonstrated here by Susie Watson Designs.

'I have always wanted to create an awning on the terrace to shade from the sunlight whilst we eat or read the newspaper,' says founder Susie Watson . 'Our Pale Rose Ivory Wide Stripe seemed like the perfect understated cotton; sophisticated and subtle, the stripes really do suit any outside space.   The towering hollyhocks echo the colours of the jolly tassels, the ideal tone to transition from early spring to high summer.'

14. Choose a practical and stylish drinks trolley

(Image credit: The White Company)

The drinks trolley has made a huge comeback in recent years as more and more of us are discovering the delights of home entertaining. Rather than keep your drinks trolley indoors, why not bring some glamor to your garden party by wheeling it out of the dining room and onto the patio as a portable garden bar idea? 

Make sure your trolley is fully equipped by loading it up with flutes, gin glasses, drinks, an ice bucket and coasters. Add in your favorite aromatic herbs in pots so that you can have a freshly picked supply for your summer cocktails and don't forget some candles to create that magical atmosphere after dark. 

'Beautiful bar cart ideas make a perfect focal point when styled with wine glasses, flutes, goblets and  tumblers all of different heights.  Buff your glassware so it sparkles and add your linens and some seasonal flowers. As the sun moves around the garden you can easily reposition the trolley wherever you wish,' says Mark Winstanley our chief creative officer at The White Company . 

15. Decorate a chair with ribbons

(Image credit: Future)

Creating a beautiful effect when fluttering in the breeze, tying ribbons to a chair is an easy and inexpensive way to bring a playful touch to garden party decor. 

French-style cafe chairs are an easy design to fasten them to and will also give a relaxed feel. Pick out ribbons to co-ordinate with the colors in your table linen and choose different widths for extra interest, you could also add in floral sprigs, too. 

16. Add floral flourishes 

(Image credit: Sarah Raven / Photography © Jonathan Buckley)

No garden party table would be complete without freshly cut flowers. There's no need for an extravagant bouquet, just a few stems are enough to add a floral flourish, in fact, sometimes less is more. Set in a handy holder, these glasses from Sarah Raven make perfect mini bud vases – you could leave them grouped for a focal point or alternatively place one at each place setting. 

For a mid-summer color pop try a combination of hot pink cacti dahlias and yellow fennel. If you're thinking of growing your own flowers for cutting then be sure to do your research on planning a cut flower garden.

17. Decorate with edible flowers

(Image credit: Emma Britton)

Decorating garden party food with edible flowers is a fitting finishing touch for a summer spread that is guaranteed to bring sparkle to an al fresco celebration. Try using them to decorate a show-stopping cake for an eye-catching centerpiece, or floating them in arrival drinks – they can also be used in salads, too. If you're thinking of using flowers to decorate food then it's important that they are certified as edible – be sure to do your research first and to buy them from trusted specialist suppliers.  

18. Don't forget the party games

(Image credit: Future)

Outdoor living rooms are the perfect space for hosting games night. Outdoor games are a great garden party idea that all the family can enjoy. There are plenty of sets to buy online from classics such as croquet and French boules to oversized versions of indoor favorites like Jenga, chess and Connect Four. Alternatively, if you're feeling crafty, you could create your own garden party game idea such as this simple ring toss game made by filling a retro fruit crate with colored bottles ready for looping with ribbon-bound hoops.

19. Set the mood

(Image credit: Layered Lounge)

If you're planning on hosting an intimate gathering on the patio then factor in plenty of outdoor lighting ideas and cozy textiles to create a magical atmosphere after dark. 'When entertaining outdoors you want to ensure the set up is stylish and comfortable, almost like an extension of the home, says Suzy Humphreys, founder of Layered Lounge.  

'Adding light throws and cushions in summer fabrics and colours adds texture and coziness on chillier evenings. I also like to dot lanterns and candles around the garden as the gentle glow of candlelight adds a real sense of occasion and will beautifully highlight your al fresco bar or dining table.'

20. Keep the kids entertained

(Image credit: Raj Tent Club)

When hosting a garden party for all the family it's important to keep the little ones entertained, so consider styling up a secret area especially for them. For a relaxed, playful look, why not choose a vibrant boho theme? Begin by laying down colorful patterned rag rugs (brilliant for disguising dirt and stains) and then add in miniature rattan furniture and a selection of Moroccan pouffes. Great indoors as well as outdoors, leather pouffes are easy to wipe clean if marked by little grubby hands. For a fun finishing touch tie colorful ribbons from branches overhead. 

21. Choose a patriotic theme

(Image credit: Grandin Road)

Whether you're thinking Memorial Day decor, 4th July decorating ideas or even celebrating Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee party ideas, creating a red, white and blue color scheme can be a great way to make your garden party ideas suit not just patriotic occasions, but all occasions. Adorn the front of your home, or just create red, white and blue table decor out in the backyard.

How can I decorate my backyard for a party?

The best way to decorate your garden for a party is to first think about what type of occasion you will be celebrating. Once you have that important element nailed, consider budget, color schemes and whether your garden party decorations will need to be waterproof or child-friendly. 

How do I throw a garden party?

Throw a garden party in any style you desire, but one of the most special things about taking things outside is the joy of al fresco dining. 

Take a traditional dinner party and move the fun outdoors. Menu-wise, why not choose summer recipes that can be cooked on the fire or in the oven, depending on how the mood takes you. Plus, this outdoor dining idea is a lovely, family-style way of entertaining.

For decorating your table outside, complement the season with your color choices. Dress the table with simple linens, terracottas and recycled glassware for an earthy, eco-moment. If you have kids running around, swap in hardy melamine platters and plastic glassware that look like the real deal.

Demarcating zones is a great way to add intrigue and intimacy to a garden party.

If, when designing your garden, you have entertaining in mind, then consider using flowers and shrubs to define various sections. Planting beds can add a sense of privacy to smaller seating areas. Add in some herb pots here, too, for a natural way to scent a cozy area.

Tasha Green, Director of Weaver Green, suggests to, ‘create hidden areas to escape the madding crowd. Create simple wooden brackets and attach them to walls and fences to use as hanging structures for textiles (large bull clips are perfect for a non-permanent attachment).’

Alternatively, invest in a tent or marquee for an opulent feel. This is an especially lovely idea at a birthday, to create a focal point for gathering.

How do I keep my guests comfortable at a garden party?

Comfort is everything for your guests, especially when you’re outside and will be lingering until the last rays of sun have faded away.  

While seat and bench pads are of course useful, few of us will have the right number of chairs when throwing bigger garden parties. Instead, make use of your square footage and make the ground a new comfort zone, as in the outdoor living room idea shown above. 

‘We use lots of lovely outdoor scatter cushions, floor cushions and outdoor rugs to take the hard edges off,’ says Tasha Green, Director of Weaver Green. ‘Make sure your textiles are outdoor-proof and quick drying. Then they can be left outdoors with no ill effect.’

Keep guests warm with outdoor fireplace ideas or fire pits. Add chic, modern country charm to your garden party by looking to unusual ways of displaying practical necessities. 

A foraged branch strung up with rope, or perhaps across where a hammock would usually hang, is the perfect place to display blankets. 

Attach stylish leather loops to throws in complementary colors. They’ll look pretty during the day, and when evening rolls around, your guests will know exactly where to head to for an extra layer.

Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.

Garden Party Decorations For Summer 2022

Looking for great garden party ideas this summer? From table settings to twinkling lights and decorations, there are tons of ways you can make yours the best bash of them all.

Balmy evenings are here, but throwing a garden party takes a lot of preparation if you want to make it a night to remember. Before you begin shopping for decorations and concocting a yummy menu, make a plan of action. Will your party be a low-key gathering or a sit-down meal? Once you've decided what type of garden party you want to host, it's time to get planning.

'When entertaining outdoors, it's always worth considering how many people you plan to host, and what kind of atmosphere you're trying to create,' says Nicky Line, Product & Sourcing Director at MADE.com. 'We think of gardens and balconies as an extension of indoor spaces, so think about how you can inject your own personality, and link it to your style inside at the same time.'

• First, choose a theme. From colour palette to floral arrangements, this will make gathering supplies easier. You can host a garden party in any outdoor space, so don't be put off if you have a balcony. With a few tweaks — and a slightly condensed guest list — you can make it work for you!

• Decide which areas you want to decorate. For example, do you want to extend the decorations into your front garden?

• Make a list of everything you need to source, such as lighting, napkins and seat cushions. See whether you can borrow any items from friends to cut back costs. It can be tempting to go overboard, but garden parties really give you the chance to get creative and make things yourself. 'Save jam jars and fill them with wild posies,' suggests Bethan Harwood, Partner & Home Design Stylist at John Lewis. 'Or try making bunting from wrapping paper and old fabric swatches to strengthen your colour scheme.'

1. GARDEN PARTY DECORATIONS

There is much pleasure to be found in garden get-togethers, especially with loved ones we don't see regularly. If you're privileged to have your own garden, or any kind of outdoor space, maximise it to its full potential for the summer season.

Decorations are an excellent place to start, particularly those that can be propped up quickly (think bunting, paper lanterns and long strings of garland). Depending on how creative you're feeling, you can either make these yourself or buy them ready to hang.

'Nothing says British summer garden party more than bunting. A simple bunting garland will add some quaint summer fun to your celebrations,' says Laura Rich, Furniturebox's Product Developer. 'If you're feeling crafty, you can make your own with off-cuts of fabric, binding, some ribbon and some basic sewing skills. This is a particularly fun activity for any youngsters in the family looking for a spring project.'

For larger decorations, bring your garden party up a notch by getting your hands on either a donut wall, fun-filled photo booth, garden bar, or games such as giant JENGA. While these are largely dependant on the size of your space, they'll make every garden feel as welcoming as can be. Other garden party decoration ideas include on-trend balloon arches, drink stations (such as 'pimp your Prosecco' bowls) and flower walls. It can be tempting to go overboard, but just pick out your key favourites to lead with.

Once you've decorated the basics, you can really play around with layering other elements. Jugs filled with flowers always look lovely as a table centrepiece, and larger containers draped with string lights by a front door makes for a welcoming entrance, while a box of sparklers for guests to enjoy in the evening is certain to go down a treat.

HB garden party tip... Hang empty beer or wine bottles with pretty flowers from a tree for a unique approach.

• Shop garden party decorations now •

2. SEATING AREAS

When hosting a garden party, seating goes beyond just propping up table and chairs. Once you've got the basics sorted, decide how you want to provide guests with a place to leisurely recline. If you have the space, a garden sofa is brilliant for friends to put their feet up with a chilled beverage, while a hanging egg chair offers a swaying spot to hunker down in the sun. You'll also want to consider a table long enough to seat guests, or larger round tables you can have beside each other.

Garden benches are also brilliant for extra seating and making everyone feel more welcome. 'Create a rustic and traditional feel for your celebrations with classic garden benches, providing your guests with ideal "breakout" spots dotted around the garden,' says Patrick Bridge, Chief Operations Officer at Harbour Lifestyle.

'This is a convenient yet classy solution to provide additional seating across your alfresco set up – all you need to do is add cushions and cosy blankets if needed, to keep your guests warm and comfortable.'

If you have children attending, consider creating a kid-friendly zone. You'll want a few tables, comfortable chairs (sturdy plastic are great wipe-clean options), as well as things to keep them entertained, such as sandpits and mud kitchens.

HB garden party tip... Set out a table with cupcakes for children to decorate (then give one to each guest as they leave!)

3. AMBIENT LIGHTING

Is there anything better than lolling around the garden under the starry night sky? Pretty lighting is key to entertaining once the sun disappears, with festoon lights, hurricane lanterns and LED candles all working splendidly.

Fairy lights draped across an empty wall can, as Jonny Brierley from Moda Furnishings suggests, turn any space into an enchanting oasis. 'String fairy lights never go amiss if you want to add a casual, fun feel to your outdoor balcony decor,' he says. 'Alternatively, a cluster of lanterns is perfect to create a glowing centrepiece on your terrace, porch, or balcony.'

Once you've decided on the lighting you want, it's time to hang them outside. Try not to go overboard — less is often more here — but still ensure your outdoor space glows when nighttime arrives. It could also be worth scattering a few LED or battery-powered candles to highlight any pretty flowers or features, such as a garden pond.

Make the most of hedges and trees by suspending lights from them, or place solar fairy lights along the top of your fence. Don't forget about your front garden, either: light the way for arriving guests by marking out paths and boundaries with stake lights. This will make it safer for merry visitors as they leave.

HB garden party tip: Wrap twinkling lights around arches and arbours for a scene-stealing display.

• Shop garden party lighting now •

4. CONSIDER A PERGOLA

Pergolas — stunning garden structures that add style and shade to your space — are the ultimate must-have for any party. As well as letting in a refreshing summer breeze, pergolas offer support for climbing plants and flowers, elevating the appearance of the structure.

Patios are of course lovely, but pergolas provide a good spot for an outdoor seating area. Some ways to cosy it up include propping up an outdoor sofa, stringing festoon lights either side, coordinating plant pots or hanging colourful bunting.

An alternative to a pergola is an arbour (which is built with a bench/seating area), or to save money you can build your own using wood. You could also invest in a wall-mounted gazebo. It's the ultimate spot to hide when the sweltering sun is at its height, or a light rain shower arrives.

HB garden party tip: Place a hammock under your pergola and guests will never want to leave.

Kristy Noble/Lights4Fun

5. PLAN YOUR TABLE DECOR

Formal or casual, create the dream tablescape for your garden party. Ceramics, serving platters, bowls and glasses are of course must-haves, but for a truly pretty tabletop setting think about how you can jazz it up. Personalised name card holders will make guests feel welcome, while artificial eucalyptus garlands are great to weave through the centre for an added touch.

'Tablescaping is a big trend, especially accessorising with fresh seasonal flowers,' Bethan tells us. 'Peonies and sunflowers are great for adding height and colour to your table. Other accessories such as napkins and statement china can be mixed in with your everyday pieces.'

Planning your table decor is really the fun part of entertaining. From runners to table cloths (consider wipe-clean if you're outside), it allows you to inject your signature style to wow guests. Minimalist posies, delicate vases and candles can all serve as impactful centrepieces, while bunches of dried flowers will make an everlasting impression.

Philly Mackinnon, founder of party planning website Sugar & Rind, recommends adopting a 'dine anywhere' approach. She suggests: 'An easy way to feed guests, especially in the garden, is to order a selection of food platters rather than having a sit down meal. Grazing platters are very on trend right now and come in lots of options, from antipasti to tapas, meze, cheese – even dessert platters.'

HB garden party tip: Play with pattern. You don't have to match everything together, so don't be afraid of mismatch napkins and tablecloths.

• Shop garden party tableware now •

6. CREATE A GLOW WITH A FIRE PIT

Some of the best evenings are those spent crouched around the fire pit melting marshmallows. Providing enjoyment for all, getting your hands on a fire is the most popular and best add-on you can invest in for a garden party. A great excuse for people to gather without their phones, fire pits (or chimineas and grills) add a little extra warmth once the sun has disappeared.

'Fire pits or masonry barbecues not only cook the food, but also provide a lovely heat source with aesthetic glowing embers that will keep your guests mesmerised and warm late into the night. The ultimate multi-purpose option,' adds Patrick.

Get those s'mores ready...

7. CONSIDER DIFFERENT ZONES

Zone your party by creating interesting contrasts, such as a place for games and a chill-out area. 'As guests arrive, direct them to the "cocktail zone" in the garden, with ready-made drinks they can easily help themselves to,' suggests Philly. 'This is where people will initially be catching up and chatting so should be free from loud music so they can hear each other talk.

'You could also add an outdoor bar area, which acts as a focal point for guests to gather around. Once people have eaten and become more relaxed, there needs to be a designated chill out zone. This could be as simple as a few seats with blankets as the temperature starts to drop.'

HB garden party tip: Make the most of your summerhouse or shed by turning it into a zone. A fresh lick of paint, pile of pillows and a cosy sofa can go a long way.

Oliver Perrott Photography Ltd

8. PROP UP A GARDEN POD

Portable garden pods — also referred to as garden domes, garden igloo or bubble tents — offers a chic way to cosy up, dine and relax outdoors (while also social distancing). They're more of a splurge buy, but can be reused every year.

Some bubble tents are crafted from sturdy transparent PVC that allow full 360 degree views, while other, more traditional, wooden garden pods feel more like an extension of the home with cosy furnishings. A relatively new concept for gardens, these bubble tents provide unique seating arrangements with space for tables, chairs, a garden sofa or toys for children.

Not sure how to decorate your pod? Bethan from John Lewis advises: 'Don't be afraid of borrowing some "inside" pieces and using them outdoors for your party. Cushions, throws and side tables work perfectly!'

HB garden party tip: If you've opted for a transparent bubble tent, why not suggest stargazing when the sun goes down? Grab a blanket and look up...

9. KEEP GUESTS WARM

There's nothing better than a summer garden party, but don't forget to keep guests warm after hours. Once the temperature tumbles, we recommend switching on your patio heater, draping blankets over chairs and making sure the flames from your fire pit stay lit.

Patrick tells us: 'To wrap up your preparations, and really make your celebration one to remember, add a touch of luxury to your garden with an outdoor heater. Watch your guests mingle and make memories late into the evening in comfort and style, by adding a heater to your outdoor patio area. All you need to worry about to keep the party going is that you have enough fizz to last!'

HB garden party tip: Tell guests to bring a warm jacket with them, especially if they are planning on staying late.

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17 outdoor cushions that are both practical and stylish




Lisa Joyner Senior Digital Writer, House Beautiful and Country Living Lisa Joyner is the Senior Digital Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market.

Summer garden party: 10 decor ideas

Decor Tips

Flowers, fabrics, pillows and blankets, garden furniture, hammocks and swings - all this will help turn your summer cottage into a playground for summer parties, children's parties and soulful evenings with loved ones . Summer is so short - so let's spend it with benefit and pleasure!

1. Blankets, pillows, bedding

Blankets, pillows, picnic mats, sun umbrellas, sunbeds - all this is the main must have for any outdoor pastime, whether it's a party with friends or just a summer tea in the garden. Stock up on this in advance, so that later, if necessary, quickly equip an outdoor recreation area.

Textile, H&M Home.

Photo

@stiltje.se

And don't forget the dishes. Porcelain of light shades with floral, marine motifs, glass (transparent and colored), ceramics are well suited for serving a summer table. Also, for tea drinking in the fresh air, you can use bowls with traditional oriental ornaments and light bowls made of colored transparent plastic (such are the Italian brand Kartell).

Textile, H&M Home.

2. Light bulbs on the trees

You can decorate your garden with simple electric light bulbs combined with boho-style wicker decor by hanging them on tree branches. You can complement the lighting decor with compact portable battery-powered lamps, placing them on tables and on the ground: with this design, you can arrange night parties until the morning.

3. Homemade wreaths

Homemade wreaths made from herbs, wildflowers and twigs can be used throughout the summer. They can be hung not only on the door of the house, but also hung on the branches of trees in the garden. Beautiful and elegant!

3. Hanging candle holders

Decorating your garden with candles is a good idea that will come in handy not only for the holidays, but also for ordinary summer evenings. For such a decor, both purchased candlesticks (sold at IKEA, as well as in all large hardware stores such as Leroy Merlin or OBI) and home-made ones, having built them from ordinary glass jars, are suitable. To attach candlesticks to branches, use metal wire, household twine or tape.

4. Light canopy

Light canopy not only for your bedroom, but also for the garden. You can build it from a piece of light translucent fabric, simply by hanging it on the branches of a tree. Instead of fabric, you can use a canopy for a crib, shawls or a pareo with a colorful ethnic pattern.

You can cover the ground with polyethylene or tourist foam, and put a beautiful carpet or a bright blanket on top and throw in pillows - this way you will get a beautiful oriental-style tent.

5. Decorative pompoms

When the weather permits, you can hang these decorative pompoms in your garden. Children especially like them, invariably causing them delight, so this decor is good for children's birthdays and holidays.

6. Garlands

What a garden without garlands! But before hanging them nicely, make sure they are suitable for outdoor use

Photo

Getty

0002 Who said that a rain awning has to be ugly? Here are some examples to prove that this is not the case.

In the absence of a ready-made awning, you can build a beautiful tent yourself by decorating an ordinary piece of transparent polyethylene with multi-colored ribbons - if you try, it will turn out no less impressive!

8. Chinese lanterns

Chinese rice paper lanterns with or without built-in LED lights are a win-win solution for garden decoration. They look especially beautiful if you hang them in picturesque groups and decorate them with colorful ribbons: the balloons will flutter beautifully in the wind, creating a festive mood.

IKEA has similar rechargeable ball lights. They are powered by a battery that is recharged by sunlight and do not need to be plugged into an outlet. Due to the absence of wires, they can be used anywhere in the garden. And LEDs last 10 times longer than conventional incandescent bulbs.

Photo

IKEA

9. Swings and hammocks

Pump up your garden swing with bright decor and soft pillows. A battery-operated chandelier, which can also be hung from a tree, will help add atmosphere. Romantic mood attached.

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GAMAK GREEN GLADE G-042

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Suspending chair-cache-shade with a pillow

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Size: 120x80 cm

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2222 Suspending hammock of fabric

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GAMAK ECOS HAM-19

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10.

Flower decor

and, of course, do not forget about the colors that are of the colors that are of which a lot in the garden in summer. Fresh flowers will look great on the festive table. And besides, you can hang homemade vases from bottles on tree branches or build flower curtains using cut flowers and fishing line - there are a lot of options, it's all up to your imagination!

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Getty images

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Tags

• Summer

Holiday in summer parties

Summer pleases with hot weather and abundance of vitamins, giving an excellent mood, as well as a lot friends. The time has come for carefree outdoor parties, which can be organized both within the city, for example, in a park, and outside it, in a country house or in a forest belt.

In addition to choosing a themed or exclusively summer menu, it will be necessary to somehow decorate the place intended for the party so that its atmosphere is truly unforgettable, colorful. We will help you decide on the style of the holiday by providing some simple, but bright and unforgettable decor ideas.

• Desired atmosphere

Illumination has never been superfluous, especially when decorating outdoor summer parties. Moreover, light bulbs or luminous garlands mounted above the dining group make it possible to almost completely abandon additional decor. This is very convenient if there is a catastrophic lack of time to search for and subsequent installation of jewelry, but you need to cope with the design by the appointed time.

If the celebration continues after dark, garlands with light bulbs will not only be a decorative decoration of the party, but will also help illuminate a small area.

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• Bright and festive

Against the backdrop of lush garden greenery, colorful garlands made of paper, ribbons, straw or in the form of figures look festive and very summery. You can use them to decorate the space above the table, the backs of the seats, to decorate green spaces (bushes and fruit trees), as well as to highlight the area with the serving table away from the dining group.

Animal, treat or flower silhouette garlands can be used to decorate children's parties