Ready, set – guests! Is your outdoor space ready for summer parties?
Summer is a time for get togethers, family outings, day trips, holidays in the sun and – my personal favourite – garden parties! They can be a smart or a casual affair, you can invite just family or friends, or an eclectic mix of both. There’s something really special about hosting a garden party; spending time out in the sunshine, eating good food, enjoying a glass (or two) of something cold and refreshing – it’s just perfect.
Although, it’s worth remembering that if you’re going to be spending lots of time outdoors enjoying the sunshine then it’s important to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays and you’ll find a wide variety of sun protection glasses that will help you do that.
I’m a firm believer that if you want your garden party to be a success, then your outdoor space needs to play a big part and to give you a little inspiration, I’ve come up with 4 simple ways you can make your outdoor space look extra special for all those extra special guests who’ll be arriving this summer. Enjoy!
Tidy up
You’ll be amazed at the incredible difference a simply spruce up can make. Or dedicate an afternoon to some hard work and get tidying up those boarders, clearing up that debris, getting any wild plants and shrubs back under control and getting rid of any old garden rubbish responsibly. You don’t have to be an avid gardener to get this right, just make the whole area neat and tidy and you’re already winning.
Focus on lighting
Outdoor lighting makes the transition from daylight to twilight and then the night-time, so much easier and magical too. Of course, the evenings are lighter and longer during the summer months but adding a few solar powered stakes into your boarders and shrubs will look very sophisticated and hanging some twinkling solar powered fairy lights around your seating areas will certainly give the evening a magical touch. Never underestimate the power of tea lights and some large mason jars either!
Brush up your furniture
Even if it’s been stored away for several months, garden furniture looks tired and dirty all too quickly. So, give everything a good clean and rather than buying brand new (perfect if you’re working on a budget), you’ll be amazed at what a lick of paint can do. Don’t worry about not having enough chairs either – try to provide as many options as possible; everything from bean bags to large floor cushions even a rug or two will provide excellent seating solutions.
Focus on shade
Everyone needs a little relief from the suns rays, so make sure you provide as many areas as possible for people to shelter in. A large parasol or two, and the shade from bushes and trees are ideal. Make sure the area has seats, comfortable and you’re sure to have some very well cared for guests!
