10 garden party ideas for fuss-free hosting

1. Do some last-minute gardening

Make your garden look extra spectacular and full of colour by doing some last-minute planting and gardening. Put on your gardening gloves and pull out any unwanted weeds from your beds and borders. Use a weed killer to stop them from coming back. Deadhead any faded flowers so your plants can spend more energy on producing new blooms. Fill your flowerbeds with stunning bedding plants and shrubs. If you’ve got a herb garden, snip some sprigs of mint to garnish your cocktails or mocktails, and some basil or thyme to add extra flavour to your garden party feast!

2. Put up garden party decorations

Now is the time to make sure your garden is decorated to the nines. Turn your garden into your own mini festival with a spectacular show of colourful decorations and accessories. Why not hang bunting? You could even make your own bunting with some spare paper or card. Just cut them into triangles and hang from some string – voila! Adorn your garden with paper lanterns, outdoor string lights, and other stylish party accessories for a beautifully decorated space.

3. Get the games ready

Garden party activities for adults and kids

Need some help thinking of the best games for garden parties? You don’t need to spend a fortune to have a good time. Instead, why not DIY your own games for endless fun with friends and family?

• Giant Jenga - Build your own tumbling tower with some timber, a mitre saw and a sander to smooth the edges.
• Tug-of-war - Make your own tug-of-war rope with our jute rope in a selection of thicknesses.
• Sponge water relay race - All you need is buckets, water, and sponges for a fun, refreshing challenge.
• Sack race - Use rubble sacks or old pillowcases for a classic hopping race.

Short on time? We've got plenty of outdoor games that the whole gang will love – including boules, swing ball, hopscotch and more.

4. Create a gorgeous outdoor dining table set-up

Planning a sit-down meal? Set the table for an alfresco feast. Place candles and lanterns in the middle, surrounded by flower cuttings and foliage. Upcycle old wine bottles into fairy light holders for a magical touch. And don’t forget outdoor cushions for extra comfort!

5. Prep your food and drink station

Whether you’re cooking up a BBQ feast or preparing canapés, make sure you’re prepped and ready. Have you got enough charcoal or gas? Enough bread rolls, napkins, plates, and cutlery? Check your supplies a couple of days before the party to avoid last-minute stress.

And don’t forget your drinks! Get yourself a drinks cooler to keep your refreshments chilled. Or makeshift your own by filling a steel bucket with ice cubes for a DIY drinks’ cooler. Metal helps keep the ice from melting too quickly.

6. Don’t forget the music

A party without music? No chance! Create a playlist with a mix of tunes to suit all tastes, from singalongs to summer anthems. Just keep the volume in check if you don’t want grumpy neighbours!

7. Set up a garden bar

Take your hosting up a notch with your very own garden bar. Get your hands on one of our prebuilt garden bars. Or you could use a fold-out table or a bar cart and stock it with glasses, mixers, and garnishes. Add a few cocktail recipe cards to inspire your guests. Want to go all out? Upcycle an old wooden pallet into a stylish sign!

8. Offer cosy seating areas

As the sun sets, guests will love somewhere comfy to lounge. Scatter outdoor cushions, rugs, and bean bags for a relaxed vibe. A few throws will also come in handy for chillier evenings.

9. Light up the night

Keep the party going with atmospheric lighting. Solar-powered lanterns, fairy lights, and LED candles will create a warm, inviting glow. For an extra cosy feel, a fire pit or chiminea is perfect for gathering around.

10. Have a back-up plan

Let’s be honest – the British weather is unpredictable. Be ready for a sudden downpour with a gazebo, parasols, or even a designated indoor space. A few large umbrellas can also keep the party going without a hitch!