As the weather is all set to heat up, we’re all looking forward to making the most of the garden and staying out in the late-afternoon sun. Another long weekend is upon us - and with something to celebrate - why not take it a step further and plan an unforgettable festival-themed garden party? Here are a few tips to help you set up your garden for the day and celebrate the Coronation weekend with friends and neighbours.
Garden parties are a firm favourite of a UK summer, and there’s nothing better than a royal occasion to begin the season. With the coronation of a monarch upon us, we discuss the best ingredients for a successful garden party – one that feels fun, relaxing, and enjoyable for everyone invited - from the practicalities of seating everyone with the addition of plenty of outdoor cushions and beanbags to having side tables for guests to rest their drinks. We also run through our favourite outdoor decorations - those beautiful garden lights and outdoor canopies that bring the garden party to life.
Set the scene with festival-style garden décor
Introducing a festival mood into the garden can vary depending on the party you hope to host and the occasion you're celebrating - but a common ingredient to set the scene for a less formal gathering that takes on a festival feel is to use festival-style garden décor. That way, you will achieve a relaxed, bohemian feel outside that invites guests to relax, feel at home, and linger for longer. Think layers of patterned outdoor rugs and cosy cushions - places to kick back and lounge outside.
Add atmosphere with garden party lights
Lighting is the most effective way of decorating an outdoor space, and the right garden party lights will keep the party going or create an intimate atmosphere after dusk. Don’t confine lighting to your social area - use the whole garden. Solar stake lights in plant borders and decorative outdoor lighting hung at a height from trees and fenceposts will add depth and create a view. LED lanterns are versatile because they’re transportable, and festoon lighting never fails to deliver a sense of occasion.
Arrange furniture for music as well as refreshments
Decoration, tablecloths and flowers go a long way when creating a festive look in the garden - but outdoor lighting and music bring the ambience to the party. Invest the time in setting up a good sound system outside for the day, whether to share a live event, like the Coronation or to queue a few festival-themed playlists your guests have chosen. Borrow a side table from your seating area in the farther corners of your garden so there’s no spot left without sound.
Set up cosy seating areas for guests to retire to
Layering cosy throws and cushions to outdoor lounge sets will enhance the main seating area at your summer garden party. Carefully placed deckchairs and bistro sets work well to offer additional social seating areas elsewhere in the garden and a destination for guests to peel off from the group, and if looking to introduce a space outside to entertain young guests, design somewhere exciting for them to head to at your festival garden party that's beneath a canopy or parasol in comfort away from the sun - a hanging bell tent is the perfect destination furniture for any festival party and traditional outdoor games will keep guests entertained.
Light a fire pit set for extra warmth
Keep the party going as the sun goes down - by lighting a fire pit set or chimnea - moving all the cushions, throws and rugs around the fire for a memorable end to your garden party. Add a few more blankets, some toasted marshmallows and even some instruments for guests to showcase their talents and enjoy music long into the night (since you've already got the neighbours over, they won't mind!).