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Decorating ideas for a 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.

24 garden party ideas to transform your backyard for celebrations

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Looking for some lovely garden party ideas to quickly change your backyard into the perfect space for outdoor entertaining? You are in the right place! We have loads of gorgeous looks that you can recreate in your own space no matter what size garden you are working with. Even if your outdoor space is a balcony or a small patio, we have you covered too. 

Whether your garden parties are all about the barbecue, gathering around an open fire, or simply enjoying a cup of tea with a couple of friends in a gorgeous setting, we have lots of inspiring garden ideas to help you throw a party your guests will talk about for months. 

1. Make a garden party feel special with textiles

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(Image credit: John Lewis)

A really easy way to up your garden party game and make it feel like a really occasion is to simply lay down some lovely table linen. You want to blur the lines between indoors and outdoors and make the tables outside feel just as special as they would at a normal diner party. Layer a few table clothes on top of one another for a laid back, rustic feel and match your table decor to that country vibe with wooden chopping boards, Mason jars and small vases of fresh flowers. 

2. Hang candles above a table 

(Image credit: Dobbies)

Love this idea! And imagine how special it would look at night, creating a lovely glow over the table. You could really easily DIY this structure using beams (or for a more rustic look use found wood) and then just hang candle holders at different heights to create a lovely atmosphere at the dinner table. 

3. Decorate your tables with garden findings 

(Image credit: Ella James)

The key to create lovely, country-style table scapes is lots of textures, so place jars of flowers sporadically thorough out the food and plates and trail garlands so they fall natural off the sides. Rather than buy your greenery, have a look around your garden for decor and DIY your floral decor. This will create a nice link between the table design and the surrounding garden too. 

4. Give your party a camp out vibe

(Image credit: Boutique Camping)

Even  for adults, there's something so exciting about camping, and that feeling of a party turning into a sleepover. So pop up a tent or tipi if you garden and surround it  with rugs, chairs and floor cushions to create a really vacation feel. Get a fire going too as it gets dark and hand out marshmallows as an after dinner treat. 

5. Create a garden party theme

(Image credit: Talking Tables)

If you're decorating your garden for the party, choosing a theme will make it punchier visually. Wish you were throwing a garden party in the tropics somewhere? Why not recreate a luscious tropical atmosphere with colorful accessories and a piñata. Add some bright cushions and hanging decorations, and you're good to go. ..

6. Set up a shaded area

(Image credit: Cuprinol)

It always a good idea to create a shaded area at your garden party for people who don't like being in the sun for too long, or if  your guests want a shaded spot to relax away from the main event.  A parasol would do the job, but we are loving sail shades this summer, they are just so simple and stylish and add a bit of a beachy vibe to a garden. 

7. Light up the garden for a night-time party

(Image credit: Lights4fun)

To make sure your garden party continues seamlessly into the evening, prepare with plenty of outdoor lighting. Mix and match different types, from tea lights to lanterns, for a really pretty, luminous effect. 

8. Please a party crowd with fresh lemonade

(Image credit: Rex London)

Nothing screams 'garden party' like a lemonade dispenser. Plus it adds such a cute rustic feel to a garden party. You can pick them up really cheaply on Amazon and make your own lemonade really easily using just lemons, sugar and water. 

9. Find a fire pit for cooler nights

(Image credit: Moda Furnishings + Sandra Baker (@the_idle_hands))

If you're throwing a garden party in autumn or winter, an open fire of some sort always helps to draw everyone together. Marshmallow toasting is one of the great pleasures of cold-weather partying, especially if there are children at the party. 

10. Create an indoor feel with hanging lampshades

(Image credit: Mind the Gap)

Give your garden party table a real indoor/outdoor feel by hanging actual lampshades above. You could just hang them from string to a tree and wind around some battery-powered fairy lights to create a more... rustic but equally lovely version of this beautiful set up. 

11. Ensure your garden seating is super comfy

(Image credit: Lights4fun)

Comfy seating is a must in the garden, party or no – and it's crucial for keeping everyone happy into the evening. We say padded with plenty of cushions is the way to go. 

If your seating is naturally hard, for example, a corner bench or metal set, get plenty of cushions and blankets to create a cozy atmosphere. 

12. Create a party ambience with an outdoor speaker

Ultimate Ears UE Megablast

Want to really get the party started? You need music. And while you don't want to annoy all your neighbors with an overly loud sound, a tinny old speaker won't do, either. Go for a portable speaker that you can easily bring out into the garden and move it around should you need to. Then you just make sure you have a banging playlist ready to go!

13. Love garden party food? Build an outdoor kitchen

(Image credit: Ikea)

If you are seriously into your al fresco dining, then consider building an outdoor kitchen. This is a particularly worthwhile investment if you entertain frequently – imagine the time and effort saved by not having to carry endless dishes back and forth between your kitchen and garden.

14. Get an outdoor projector for garden movie nights

(Image credit: Cuprinol )

There's nothing like ending a successful party with a late-night film screening. Technically, for an outdoor cinema, all you really need is a sheet, or a white wall and an outdoor projector (if you're not sure what to go for, check out our guide to the best outdoor projectors ), but we think it's the extras that make it all the more special. Basically, that means string up A TON of fairy lights, the more the better. We love the look of festoon lights and you could also add some lanterns to create even more of a lovely glow. And if you are feeling really extra, bring out your duvet and hang up a net canopy to create an almost outdoor bedroom. Dreamy!

Make sure your garden furniture is extra comfy by adding plenty of cushions and roll out an outdoor rug to create an even more outdoor living room feel. 

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15. Create home bar – instantly

(Image credit: Garden Trading)

Bar stools are fun and create a cool and intimate atmosphere; and – if you are very lucky and have a swimming pool – they can contribute to a poolside bar look that is just perfect for a garden party. 

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16. Create an outdoor living room

(Image credit: Oh So Kel)

If you want to create a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere at your garden party, switch the tables for floor cushions, outdoor sofas and coffee tables. Add to that living room feel by adding plenty of throws and pop down a rug too. Be sure to avoid indoor furniture outside though – it's one of the worst patio decorating mistakes!

17. Find a great garden party dining set

(Image credit: Lights4fun)

For a complete garden party experience – think nice, long dinner, followed by a nice, long conversation – nothing beats a proper outdoor dining set. Set your expectations high: it should be well-built, spacious, and cater to all weathers. Oh, and, of course, it should be good-looking. 

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18.

Throw an impromptu cocktail party

(Image credit: Cuprinol)

There's nothing like a refreshing Margarita on a hot day – or a fruity mocktail, if alcohol isn't your thing. One thing's certain: no fab garden cocktail party is complete without a gorgeous cocktail shaker. 

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19. Minimise food prep with a cheese board

(Image credit: Ikea)

Don't fancy doing lots of cooking for your garden party? Especially if you'll be hosting in a small patio or on a balcony, big plates of food might not be practical. Instead, serve a chic cheese and charcuterie board that people can dip in and out of as they choose. 

20. Go full rustic with low seating in a country garden

(Image credit: Garden Trading)

We admit that to recreate this garden idea in your garden you probably would need to live on a farm, but what could be more romantic than the idea of enjoying an evening with friends on some hay bales? If you don't live anywhere near any hay, try bean bag seating instead.

21. 

22. Go boho and relaxed for an easygoing garden party

(Image credit: Ikea)

If you don't feel like hosting a sit-down dinner, but still want to make sure your guests are well-fed, go Scandinavian and create a buffet-style table with salads, sandwiches, and drinks. That way, you won't need to worry about everyone finishing eating at the same time. 

23. Combine formal and rustic elements in your dining scheme

(Image credit: Lights4fun)

Garden design is all about mixing modern rustic and more contemporary styles at the moment, and the same goes for your garden party. Think combining rustic-style, linen napkins and cushions with more formal elements such as a candle holder and crystal glasses. 

24. Be prepared for rain and shine

(Image credit: Ikea)

It doesn't matter where in the world you are, you can bet that, as soon as you set a date for a garden party, the weather misbehaves. So, we'd always advise preparing ahead for rain and shine. Gazebos are great, parasols look pretty and are forever useful and wind/sun sail shades are a quick fix. Whichever, just make sure there's enough shelter for all. Find more of the best garden parasols in our buyer's guide.

Anna is Content Editor at Real Homes. She moved to the world of interiors from academic research in the field of English Literature and photography. She is the author of London Writing of the 1930s and has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. At Real Homes, she covers a range of topics, from practical advice to interior and garden design.  

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. nine0003

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. nine0003

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! nine0003

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. nine0003

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.

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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. nine0003

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Hammock Green Glade G-042

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Hanging wicker swing chair with cushion

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Hanging fabric hammock

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Hammock ECOS Ham-19

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10. Floral decor

And of course, we should not forget about the flowers, which are abundant 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! nine0003

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How to prepare a stylish garden party?

For a stylish garden party, every detail counts: the setting, the food and drinks, and the festive lighting that creates the right atmosphere. The venue for the holiday can be a terrace, a gazebo, a lawn or a cozy corner under the trees. Make a playlist in advance with music that will accompany the beginning of the evening, its end, and also prepare a few songs for dancing. nine0003

Ideas for decorating a bar and a table

Instead of a traditional table with chairs or benches, you can come up with something more original. In the summer, dine right on the green lawn. Take a low table on which to arrange treats and arrange seating cushions around it.

In the bosom of nature, a “bar counter” made of a wooden ladder-rack, on both sides of which there are glasses and drinks for every taste, will look original. This design is much more interesting than ordinary ideas. Perhaps someone will be lucky to find an old ladder, forgotten in a far corner in the attic. And if not, then you can make a wooden rack yourself and decorate it with a glowing LED garland. nine0003

A bright idea is a vitamin party, where guests are offered fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits. Then the rack ladder can be used to arrange salads and desserts, and ice for cocktails and bottles of drinks can be placed side by side in a wooden box.

Prepare stylish lighting

No party is complete without lighting, which adds a fun and bright atmosphere to the whole party. It is recommended to use no more than two or three types of lighting and decor. Here are a few options on how to arrange illumination and light for a stylish party:

One of the best modern options for decorating the garden is the bell light garland, which can be viewed in the catalog and purchased at https://beautyled.

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