How to Host a Garden Party

Garden party grub is some of the best, isn’t it? Fresh salads, barbecued burgers, delicious desserts. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it! 

Of course, garden parties require a certain kind of plate. With blowing winds and outdoor activities posing a threat, you’ll want garden dining sets that are as durable as they are funky. That’s why our stunning statement picnicware is made from shatter-resistant melamine to handle whatever the great outdoors can throw at it. 

Ever been to a garden party where you’re stuck in an uncomfortable chair? Each different person has preferences, so cater for your party guests by supplying different kinds of outdoor seating. From wicker chairs and deck chairs to floor cushions and beanbags for a bohemian garden party vibe. 

Different kinds of outdoor seating also give a charming eclectic vibe to your garden party that we absolutely love! You can find plenty of ideas on how to style your outdoor seating, along with plenty of other remarkable tips for curating your outside space, in our unique garden style guide. 

Our top tip? Make sure your seating area is complete with plenty of parasols for those guests who need a little shade from the rays.

There’s usually a slight wind here in breezy Britain. Plan and prepare by safety-pinning your tablecloth before setting the table. After all, the surface holding the food is the centrepiece of the party, so make sure it’s well-secured before you go to town on the decorating and arrangement. The last thing we want is your delicious garden party buffet to go flying everywhere!

Interesting and unique garden ornaments are such a fun talking point for your garden party guests. Not to mention, they go such a long way in curating the atmosphere of your outdoor space. Will you use ornaments to create a boho vibe, a cottage-style scene, or a fairytale garden? 

For your party, try using a garden ornament as your table centrepiece for a touch of whimsy. A planter or gnome would look charming, completing your garden party tablescape.

Is it really a garden party without some refreshing drinks? Whether you’re cocktail crazy or more about the mocktails, one thing is for sure - you want to serve with style. Prepare your cocktails in advance and store in the fridge to make sure you have drinks at the ready - no guest should go thirsty, after all. 

Avoid stemmed glasses for the outdoors. Instead, tumblers and mason jars make for perfect picnicware glasses.

Try mixing your summer Pimms in an ornate painted jug for a touch of sophistication. Finish with a funky cocktail umbrella or a lemon slice for that holiday flair.

Our summer cocktail recipe inspo page can give you plenty of garden party tipple tips.

Transition from day to evening in snug style by having prepared blankets and cushions to make your guests feel extra cosy and at home in your garden. Not only do outdoor furnishings make your guests feel like they’re being really looked after, but it stops people from clambering into your house as soon as a chill is in the air. 

In Joe’s opinion, a cosy evening under the stars is better than a standard evening indoors.

Before your garden party starts, be sure to string up your outdoor lights so they’re ready to switch on and make your outdoor space even cosier than it already is! Any amount of cute outdoor lighting is a novelty that’ll ensure the party carries on into the evening (and through the night, if you wish). One of our favourite ways to light up the night is using candles or tea lights to dot around the space. Cute, cosy and crafty – all the elements that make a garden party from ordinary to extraordinary!

For an added bonus, pop a citronella candle in your stunning candle holders to keep those pesky mosquitos away.

Now you know how to throw a good garden party, all you need is a few statement pieces from Joe Browns garden range to tie it all together. Plus you can make sure your outfit is as remarkable as your party decor by exploring our inspiration page.