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While the weekend forecast might look promising you can never really rely on the good old British weather, so make sure you have a back-up plan in case of unexpected downpours. A marquee is a great idea for protecting against the elements, but if the rain really puts a dampner on the day, be prepared to take the party indoors.
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To help you out, we’ve pulled together some simple staples that you can serve as starters and nibbles or as an accompaniment with a crisp garden salad. There’s even some ideas for desserts and drinks – all super easy, all super tasty! Read our 5 summer recipes for inspiration.
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Finally, add a romantic glow (it is a wedding, after all!), with a couple of candles and lanterns dotted around the garden. Perfect.
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How to Throw a Garden Party Fit for Royalty
Words by Michaela Quinn
May 16, 2018
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3m
It’s the wedding everyone’s talking about, and it's happening this weekend! Harry and Meghan are set to wed on May 19th which gives us an ideal excuse to throw a party.
What better way to celebrate than with a quintessentially British garden party? Have fun in the sun as you toast the happy couple. To help things go with a swing, we’ve put together a quick check list to give your celebrations the royal seal of approval…
Start with a seating plan
Whether you’re catering for a handful or a garden-full of guests, sufficient seating and table space is key to keeping everyone feeling at ease (and free to mingle without fear of losing their seat).
Create a sociable and stylish setting for your party with the right garden furniture; a large garden dining set is perfect for a sit down lunch, while a sofa or outdoor lounge set will allow your guests to sit back and relax with a glass of prosecco. We've got style to suit every space, whether it’s on a trendy urban patio or in an English country garden…we've even got a range of individual garden chairs for those last minute attendees.
Be ready for any weather
While the weekend forecast might look promising you can never really rely on the good old British weather, so make sure you have a back-up plan in case of unexpected downpours. A marquee is a great idea for protecting against the elements, but if the rain really puts a dampner on the day, be prepared to take the party indoors.
If (finger's crossed!) the sun does make an appearance, make sure your guests stay safe in the sun with a parasol which will provide plenty of shade and a place to cool off.
And if thing start to get chilly as the evening draws in, it’s always nice to have something to put around your shoulders so you can stay outside a little longer. Simple fill a basket with a few blankets and throws that guests can help themselves to. We’ve got a whole range of gorgeous throws that fit the bill perfectly.
Say yes to al fresco dining
So the invites are out, you know the numbers – but what do you feed them? A traditional afternoon tea always goes down a treat, while a BBQ is a fun crowd-pleasing idea for an outdoor get-together. Or why not serve up a selection of delicious dishes and canapes?
To help you out, we’ve pulled together some simple staples that you can serve as starters and nibbles or as an accompaniment with a crisp garden salad. There’s even some ideas for desserts and drinks – all super easy, all super tasty! Read our 5 summer recipes for inspiration.
And if you really want to get the party started, a cocktail or two will instantly up the fun factor. All you need is a cocktail shaker, some glasses and your favourite alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail ingredients.
Create a table fit for a queen
Want to turn your garden party into a swanky soirée ? For a table that Harry and Meghan would approve of, ditch the paper plates for a selection of sophisticated tableware instead. Our square bubble plates are a stylish way to show off your finger sandwiches. Get creative with your table setting, adding items such as cake stands, teapots, fancy bottles and napkins to help create a regal British vibe.
Set the scene with decorations
No royal garden party would be complete without a bit of red, white and blue. Create a British-inspired bash with Union Jack decorations and accessories, from bunting and flags to cushions and table cloths. For a quick and easy table decoration, fill jars and vases with red white and blue flowers, or why not make your own paper streamers?
Finally, add a romantic glow (it is a wedding, after all!), with a couple of candles and lanterns dotted around the garden. Perfect.
So there you have it, some simple ideas to celebrate the royal nuptials in style. Now check out our top picks to add to your garden party shopping list.
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