words Al Woods
Restrictions are lifting and it is time to get the sunglasses out. After a year of not being able to socialise and see our loved ones, many of us are already planning how we’re going to celebrate once it’s safe to do so.
To help you plan your perfect garden party in plenty of time for June 21st, here are our top ten tips to help you.
1. Plan your outfit
Whether you’re planning a themed party or just inviting a couple of friends over for drinks, you want to make sure that you’re looking your best – from your shoes to sunglasses. Arlo Wolf has a range of both prescription and non-prescription sunglasses that will match any outfit and bring it to the next level. You can even order multiple sunglasses to try before you buy to make sure you get the perfect pair.
2. Pick a theme
Your garden party does not need a theme to be a success, but having a themed party can add an extra layer of fun for both you and your guests. It can also allow you to plan out decorations, food and games that match your theme of choice.
3. Stock up on the food
Whether your plan is to fire up the BBQ or stock up on sandwiches, you need to double check that you’ve bought enough food for all your guests. After all, you don’t want your friends going hungry the first time you have seen them in months. When planning your food of choice, you should remember to consider if your guests have any allergies or dietary restrictions and take that into consideration when sorting out your menu.
4. Don’t forget about the drinks
The same rules apply for drinks. It’s better to have too much than not enough. If there are kids coming to your party, make sure you have got a couple flavours of squash. Similarly for the adults, make sure to stock up on some non-alcoholic options for those choosing not to drink.
5. Tidy up the garden
The day before your party, make sure you spend some time in the garden to give it a quick spruce up. Give the grass a good mow over, pull up any weeds and hide away any gardening tools that may be laying out. If you have garden furniture that’s been sitting in the shed since your last party, make sure to take it out and give it a good clean in advance. It will be one less thing to do on the day.
6. Sort out your seating
Nothing is worse than being at a party and not having enough seats. Once you have got your guest list sorted, make sure you have enough chairs for everyone. If you don’t, you can always ask your friends if they have any they can take, or simply get creative with your seating arrangements!f Top tip: if you have any wooden pallets, grab a blanket and a couple of cushions for a low-cost alternative.
7. Light up the night
If you plan on continuing your garden party into the evening, having some outdoor lighting will allow for the fun to keep on going. Having some string lights or tiki torches in the garden can really brighten up the garden and can add to the party’s theme if you choose to have one.
8. Throw some games into the mix
Having games or an activity planned for your party can make the evening go smoothly, whether your party is full of kids or an adult only night. It can be a great icebreaker if your guests don’t know each other or you just want to find a way to entertain friends.
A treasure hunt is always a good way to get the kids running about and having fun. Also, having a pack of cards at hand can never go wrong.
9. Bring out the blankets
As it gets colder into the night, don’t forget to offer out some blankets to your guests to make sure that everyone stays cosy while enjoying the evening. After all, blankets are something that everyone always forgets to bring when they go out for an afternoon in the garden.
10. Be wary of bugs
Finally, the worst thing about summer days is the bugs. Mosquitoes and wasps can make a great party uncomfortable for your guests. There are a couple of ways to try and prevent them from ruining your party: citronella oil candles are a good deterrent, and so are fans as they struggle to compete with the airflow. In case the unwanted guests make an appearance, it’s best to have some bug cream and bug spray at hand.
Your party does not need to be overly complicated for it to be a success. Taking a little bit of time the days before June 21st to plan out what you want to have and what you need to do before the day will make you feel relaxed. Not to mention, doing this will give you the chance to enjoy the great party you have created with your friends and family.