Garden party ideas and decorations to get your summer started

From new cocktail ideas to BBQ area designs, we’ve been getting ready for the start of summer for a while here at Eager. And now that it’s almost upon us (at last!), we’re excited to go alfresco, and take the dinner party outdoors.

Party hosting might sound like a lot of hard work – but don’t worry, that’s where we come in. As we like to say, less is always more. Get the prep right, and putting on a perfectly planned garden party will be a total (summer) breeze.

So whether it’s just an afternoon with family, or a bigger event with friends, here are some decoration ideas and hosting tips. It’s time to get ready for garden party season…

Setting the summer mood

Get strung out – Nothing says garden party like some bunting, so hang up some of your own for maximum festive vibes. If you’re in a crafty mood, or you’ve got some spare fabric lying around that you don’t know what to do with, here’s how to make your own.

Brighten it up – We know all about how lighting is everything indoors. But that’s true outside, too. During the day, the only light you’ll need will be that glorious British sun (well, hopefully, anyway). But once the evening comes around, you’ll need some backup options. Think low-level and warm for a cosy atmosphere: fairy lights, candles and lanterns are your friends here.

Set the table – Don’t just throw a plastic tablecloth over your garden table. Tablescape it. From your chosen tablecloth, to plates and serving bowls, to colourful glassware, the opportunities are endless. Bonus points for using flowers or plants from your garden as table decorations. This might work better as a serving table for food, not a proper sit-down meal, but don’t let that stop you from getting creative with your tablescape. And speaking of food…

Getting the party started

Get grilling – Your guests are definitely going to want feeding. And since you’re already hosting outdoors, why not make the most of it and have a barbecue? It’s the obvious choice, and a great British summer staple, for a reason. Plus, if you can man the BBQ in shifts, it’s less work for you. A no-brainer all round.

Play time – Sometimes the traditional tips are the best, so why not introduce some summer-ready lawn games into the mix? Lean into the classic British summer vibes with croquet, or try some ring toss or bocce for guaranteed family-friendly fun. And they’re great ice-breakers for guests, too.

See you at the bar – A dedicated drinks area is a garden party essential. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy (although we definitely won’t stop you if you feel like glamming it up). It can be as simple as a dedicated table or bar cart, strategically placed for maximum refills. Really, the form your bar area takes isn’t such a big deal. The more important thing is keeping it stocked up…

… Say cheers to summer

So, you’ve sorted your decorations, planned your food, and even set up some games. There’s only one question left. What drinks are you serving?

We’ve got some ideas. This campari spritz recipe is easy, and has just the right summer holiday feel to it.

Ingredients:

• 60ml Campari
• 15ml Eager orange juice
• 85ml prosecco
• Orange wedge, to garnish
• Cherries, to garnish

Just fill a glass with ice, and add the Campari and orange juice. Then add the prosecco, stir gently to combine, and garnish with the orange wedge and a cherry. It’s that simple.

When it comes to planning, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got enough ingredients so that no-one goes thirsty. Whatever your favourite flavour, our packs of six are ideal when you’re serving a big group of friends and family. You can get your juice delivered straight to your door to save planning stress – and since you can store it anywhere, not just the fridge, you’ll save on space too.

So, from stress-free decorations to an OJ summer cocktail, you’ve got everything you need to host the perfect early-summer garden party. Only the rain can stop you now.