With temperatures lazily climbing, emerging blue skies, and the end to a particularly grey winter in sight, garden party season is upon us at last. From a humble barbecue to a no expense spared celebration, garden parties are almost as quintessentially British as tea and cakes. Planning the ultimate garden soirée as lockdown starts to lift on the other hand is no picnic. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled our own quick guide with 5 tips to inspire your next outdoor reunion; with a few sipping suggestions, naturally.
1. Travel Inspired Table Decor
A must for any elegant garden party is setting a welcoming scene for your guests. The lockdown trend of crafting beautiful table spreads isn’t going anywhere, and for your first reunion in the comfort of your own garden, be sure to embrace the new spring weather! Decorate your table with plenty of warm colours and blossoming flowers such as this dazzling display from LAY London. Incorporating Moroccan inspired metal lanterns adds a touch of romance, and would be the ideal setting to enjoy when paired with a delicately perfumed Gin Proved NIO Cocktail.
2. Fuss-Free Food
If you are a hostess with the mostess who prefers to entertain your guests without the fuss of preparing a whole menu, why not opt for a chic cheeseboard instead? Easy to prepare in advance, this is an elegant yet laid back option if you would rather be toasting to your reunion with your friends and family rather than cooking a three course meal - not to mention that it also provides a laid back, elegant atmosphere. Simply pair your aperitivo board with a NIO Cocktails Dinner Party Box, and you’re ready to go - your garden party moment needs ice only.
3. Springtime Centrepieces
It wouldn’t be a British garden party without an abundance of flowers, and not just in the background of your garden either. Use fresh flowers to frame your lighting, create an elegant backdrop, or decorate your table setting for a rustic yet thoroughly romantic feel. Better yet, pair your florals to your drinks menu with a Garden of Russia cocktail, boasting honeyed, elderflower botanical notes that will beautifully complement your floral theme.
4. All-Weather Ready
No spring garden party here in the UK would be complete without some unexpected April showers! Make sure you plan accordingly for all weathers and rainproof your long-awaited garden reunion by arranging a cosy, covered seating area for your guests, like one of these from IKEA. To add the finishing touch all you need is a few of our Whiskey Sours to keep you warm, and your guests will be happy come rain or shine.
5. Light Up Your Garden
The ideal garden party setting need not be a complicated affair. If you plan on entertaining your loved ones long after the sun sets, try stringing up fairy lights or small lanterns like these above the dinner table to add height and real charm to your outdoor dining area. After all, all you really need is good company to make your party a success, and perhaps an Espresso Martini or two to raise a glass with.