It’s warm out, the flowers are blooming and the birds are singing. Say goodbye to spring – it’s time to celebrate summer. To welcome this summer season I decided to do something I’ve always wanted to do, throw a garden party for my family and friends. Before I started planning my party, I thought it would be too stressful, expensive and time-consuming.
I spoke to local event planners, Vicki Weed owner of Déjà vu Event Creation and Susan Valentine founder of Event Planner Hudson Valley for some tips on organizing a classic summer event. With their advice I discovered is that it’s easy to transform your backyard from the everyday to the fabulous.
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Have a back-up plan:
As with any outdoor event, you can’t control everything, especially the weather. Be sure you have a back-up plan in case it rains on your party. Or, be ready to move inside to a covered porch or gazebo, or provide a tent to keep your guests dry and comfortable.
Choosing alternate shelter does not have to be expensive either, if you aren’t afraid to ask for some help from your friends, family or neighbors. “Ask your neighbors if they have a canopy you could borrow, just in case the weather does not cooperate.
You don’t have to be bossy when asking for help, if people ask if they should bring something, tell them what you need! Don’t be afraid to delegate. It makes the party planning go much smoother,” Vicki Weed states. If the weather doesn’t cooperate with your plan, don’t worry.
Go with the flow and relax. The best part about hosting a garden party is being able to enjoy the summer, friends and your family! In fact, Weed says that is one of the most important pieces of advice for throwing a successful bash.
“Your guests will take their cues from you. If you are running around feeling stressed, chances are your guests will too. My best events are the ones where I am relaxed and enjoying the company of my guests,” Weed says.
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Location, location, location:
For your garden party to be a sensation, choose the most picturesque part of your yard to set up. Pick a location that has a good amount of shade, but where your guests won’t be too chilly. Be sure to provide your guests with enough space to sit and a table or two to serve food and drinks.
You can use patio furniture with matching chairs, or just pull out a folding table and cover it with a decorative tablecloth and invite guests to bring their own lawn chairs. You want your guests to be able to mingle and gather around the tables at the same time. A garden party isn’t just about good food; it’s about having good conversations too!
Bridget Schultz lives in Orange County and believes parties are always better outside.