Summer is almost here, and the recent sunshine has got us looking ahead to warmer days in the garden and enjoying spending time outdoors.
With a third May Bank Holiday ahead and the official start of summer on 21st June, what better excuse do we need to plan an outdoor get together? The garden provides the perfect space to celebrate every kind of occasion, from birthday’s to ‘just because the weather’s good’ gatherings.
In case you’re in need of extra inspiration, we have teamed up with the founder of Originals London to share an expert guide to ensure your next al fresco gathering is set to be a stylish soiree.
Alice Satterthwaite, founder of Originals London: -
Start with the table
When laying your table for outdoor hosting three things I would think about as a starting point are;
- Making your table that looks vibrant, homely and enticing (think lighting, texture and colour)
- Making sure there is room for the food
- Practicality and ease (you want to have time to enjoy yourself too!)
Start with a tablecloth as your base, I am loving block printed and striped styles this year which instantly create an impactful look and most importantly are machine washable!
Layer up with woven placemats and bamboo cutlery that add texture and a holiday inspired aesthetic. Coloured water glasses hit the light beautifully and I love unique hand-blown murano styles.
For plates and serving dishes enamel options are super as are unbreakable and feel more special than plastic and melamine. For napkins, if possible, match the tablecloth or pair a complementary colour in a striped pattern.
Add an extra special touch with a woven napkin ring or use some ribbon or twine to tie them.
Finally add candles that offer soft, flattering lighting and set the mood for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Citronella candles on side tables will keep bugs at bay and lanterns dotted around seating areas add an extra glow.
For flowers use locally sourced blooms or use some from the garden arranged in relaxed mini bud vases or jam jars. Layer these with candlesticks at different heights - not your best glass ones… I would suggest brass bases such as our frilled holders - and arrange these across the middle of the table. Just make sure your guests can still talk over them!
Wash out bottles of different sizes such as your Kocktail ones (the letterbox size makes a perfect bud vase) after using and reuse for flowers. Adding personal touches such as the addition of hand-drawn or written name cards can make such a difference. Bring the indoor out by making the space comfortable with cushions and throws to combat the evening chill.
Start with a tablecloth as your base, I am loving block printed and striped styles this year which instantly create an impactful look and most importantly are machine washable!
Layer up with woven placemats and bamboo cutlery that add texture and a holiday inspired aesthetic. Coloured water glasses hit the light beautifully and I love unique hand-blown murano styles.
For plates and serving dishes enamel options are super as are unbreakable and feel more special than plastic and melamine. For napkins, if possible, match the tablecloth or pair a complementary colour in a striped pattern.
Now for the drinks
Cocktails are my summer go-to drink for guests, either served in glass pitchers or in beautiful glasses. My two favourites at the moment are the Kocktail Passionfruit Martini (such a great colour it takes me to the tropics) and Amaretto Sour.
These are utterly brilliant for hosting as you simply have to shake over ice and garnish and taste utterly divine and most importantly look impressive whilst also leaving you time to enjoy yourself with your guests.
For a special touch try making ice cubes with lemon slices or edible flowers a few days before and pop them into your finished cocktail.