The first step to throwing a successful garden party is to come up with a theme. The theme should have something to do with an aspect of your garden. If you have roses growing in your garden, consider a Victorian England Theme. Incorporate lace and pearls into your party theme. If your garden boasts exotic flowers, a tropical theme may be the perfect party setting!
The next step is creating the menu for the party. The menu should match the theme. For the Victorian party, consider tea and Danish, light finger foods. For a tropical party, consider a luau. Fruit like pineapple and papaya are good choices, plus their colors and shapes will blend in with the tropical flowers. After the theme and menu have been decided, the guest list needs tackled. Setting a number is important; because this will make sure there is enough food for everyone. The invitations should represent the party theme. It is best to send out invitations at least three weeks before the party, so the invitees have time to RSVP.
Depending on the level of party you are throwing, there are some other considerations as well. If the party is to be catered, be sure to plan the menu with the caterers, and call a few days before the party to confirm the menu, when they are to arrive, and when they should begin preparing the meal. Be sure any imported food items are ordered in advanced, to avoid any late deliveries or confusion. About a week before the party, make sure to touch best with your guest list, confirming they are still able to attend the party. A few days before the party, do a thorough cleaning of the site. Complete any needed weeding, mowing, watering, and cleaning of outdoor furniture. This will make your setting look its best for your guests. Make sure any linens that are being used are pressed and clean, polish any silverware, and make sure you have enough of everything.
Any dishes that can be prepared ahead should be done so the day before the party. This will free up a lot of time on the day of the party, while making sure the food is still fresh for the party. If the party is being catered, make sure the caterers are following orders as expected. When it comes to decorating the site, do that they day of the party. Use fresh clipped flowers from your garden or buy fresh flowers from your local nursery. Flowers can be placed into decorative vases and put on tables, or hung in planters around the setting. Create simple name tags for your guests, this gives your party a more personalized and meaningful touch, consider making placeholders that match the theme of your garden setting. If your garden party has a Victorian Theme, add decorative details that match your theme, like lace napkin rings.
A few hours before the party is when any hot dishes should be made. Also make sure any prepared foods have been defrosted and are ready to be served to guests. On the day of the party, be sure to carefully budget your time. Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to get yourself dressed and ready to entertain. Leave time for preparing drinks and greeting guests as they arrive to your party. If you follow these steps, and carefully plan out your party, it will be successful and fun for everyone!
