Master hostesses and novices can unite around these easy garden party ideas.
Keep it relaxedno seating chart or place cards are necessary for a casual al fresco meal.
DIY Lemonade Stand
Don’t spend the whole party topping off guests' drinks.
Credit: Matt Armendariz
Instead, put together a lemonade stand and have guests help themselves.
Don’t forget a bucket of ice!
Start by making ourDIY-dyed tablecloth.
Credit: Matt Armendariz
Family-Style Food
A casualsummer gatheringcan still be elegant with a few finishing touches.
Set appetizers, main dishes, andeasy party dessertsdirectly on the table and have guests pass family-style.
Personalized Place parameters
Adding a personalized place card instantly upgrades any outdoor table setting.
Credit: Sara Forte
We added a hand-written name to store-bought paper tags to make each guest feel special.
Feature a Signature Drink
If summer has a quintessential drink, it’sfresh lemonade.
Create a Charcuterie Board
A classy dinner party doesn’t require serving a three-course meal.
Credit: Matt Armendariz
Asimple charcuterie boardin the summer can be an elegant garden party idea (and way less work!).
Serve Small Bites
Keep your guests full well into the evening with a medley ofsweetandsavory tartlets.
Stock up oncute traysfor easy transportation from the kitchen to the yard.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Set the Table
Rather than decorating the entire backyard, focus on one area to dress up.
Use a bold tablecloth (we love how this one perfectly matches thestriped umbrella!)
and bright accessories to create a party place setting that pops.
Credit: Ray Kachatorian
Colorful pink napkins andflowersaround the table give this outdoor seating area a welcoming summer look.
Use Edible Flowers
The party decor doesn’t have to stop at the food table!
For example, we used edible flowers to decorate anice cream pie, with gorgeous results.
Credit: Carson Downing
Add extra flair to a garden party or summer brunch by making one of ouredible flower recipes.
Grown-Up Party Favors
Don’t let guests leave the party empty-handed!
Instead, send them home with a grown-up party favor like individually packaged homemade granola bars.
Credit: Ray Kachatorian
It’s easy to put these together; make a big batch of bars and individually wrap each one.
Set Up Stations
verify you have extra supplies for each guest regardless of your party activity.
In addition, lawn games like bocce or croquet add entertainment for all ages.
Credit: David A. Land
Rent a Tent
Don’t let unpredictable summer weather ruin your outdoor affair.
Credit: Matt Armendariz
Credit: Dana Gallagher
Credit: Victoria Peason
Credit: Victoria Peason
Credit: Ray Kachatorian
Credit: Ray Kachatorian
