Charcoal fabric u shape sofa set with fire pit table.

The Best Outdoor Essentials for a Garden Party

Written by: Chelsea Jobe

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Time to read 4 min

How to host the perfect garden party


The last bank holiday of the year is approaching, so it’s only correct to make it one to remember. Are you wondering how to celebrate? Whether you have extended family visiting for the weekend or close friends to catch up with, the best way to mark the occasion is to throw and host a garden party.


Most people love attending garden parties - BBQs, themed birthday celebrations, late-night conversations by the fire pit - but they have no experience hosting one. It does seem like a daunting idea to plan a party and know where to start first - that is why we have created this guide to help you prep and get your garden party ready.


Before you jump into this guide packed full of our garden party essentials, from outdoor lighting to outdoor lounging, here are some helpful starting points to kick-start your planning and host a successful party.

What should I keep in mind when hosting a garden party?

We wish hosting a garden party was as simple as setting a date and time for your guests, but there are many preparations for a party. Even little things like tidying the garden and making it accessible for the guests should be on your party checklist.


Think about the following when you’re planning your garden party to make it run smoothly:

  • How many guests will be attending the party?
  • Where will the party take place? For example, on the decking area
  • What happens if it rains? Does the space offer shelter, such as a gazebo or pergola?
  • Is there enough seating for each guest?
  • Will there be garden party food, like nibbles?

What are good ideas for a garden party?

There are endless possibilities when it comes to garden party themes. From traditional BBQs to a festival-themed garden party, it is simple to let your imagination run wild with ideas. Pick a theme or purpose for your garden party, which makes buying garden party decorations and accessories more straightforward.


Here are some garden party ideas for inspiration:

  • Homemade pizza party
  • Outdoor cinema with a projector
  • Wine tasting session
  • Games night
  • Family style brunch


Now that you’ve got a sense of what type of garden party you want to host and are ready to plan in detail, discover our best garden essentials for an outdoor gathering. Let’s get started!

Outdoor Seating for a Garden Party

The most important thing to consider is seating, and make sure you have enough seats for all of your guests. Depending on the number of guests you have invited, a sofa set or corner sofa is a great option to create a lounging spot for socialising at a party. The Connie 4 Seat Modular Corner Sofa Set works for small and large spaces alike due to its modular design. If you are planning to host a large group of people, opt for a u-shape sofa like the Pulse U-Shape Corner Sofa Dining Set with a Firepit Table. Your guests will gather round to interact with each other and immerse themselves in the party's atmosphere.

Grey rattan modular corner sofa set.

Outdoor Lighting for a Garden Party

Decorating a garden for a party is fun, especially if you have a particular theme for the occasion. When you think about garden party decor, your first thought may be buntings and paper lanterns, however; outdoor lighting is an underrated decorative accessory that will transform your space into a dazzling party location. Festoon lighting is the perfect choice for garden parties because it can be strung up across a lounging or dining area to add a magical touch. The Verona Solar Festoon Lights will create a warm and welcoming ambience, making the evening special for you and your guests.

Outdoor Dining Sets for a Garden Party

If you are hosting a more formal gathering that involves food, an outdoor dining set is a must-have. Alfresco dining and garden dinner parties are a high point of summer that can happen during the day and evening. Dining sets come in all shapes and sizes - from compact 4-seat round tables to spacious 8-seat rectangular tables - so consider the best dining set for your space. For a more relaxed dining experience, a bar set like the Monte Carlo 6 Seat Bar Set with Ice Bucket is a different take on outdoor dining. The ice bucket feature is a standout quality and ideal when hosting a party to keep drinks chilled.

Grey rattan 6 seat bar set with ice bucket table.

Outdoor Heating for a Garden Party

Even if your garden party is during the day, it is a good idea to prepare if your guests stay after the sun goes down. Outdoor heating, such as fire pits and patio heaters, is essential for outdoor living and can be used all year round, especially during cool summer evenings. Keep you and your guests warm and cosy with the Rectangle Aluminium Outdoor Fire Pit Table, a sleek and stylish heating option for any garden. To save space in your outdoor space, an overhang or hanging patio heater is a modern choice that can pair with any sofa or dining set.

Rectangle aluminium fire pit table.

Outdoor Cooking for a Garden Party

Food is a factor that every guest looks forward to at a garden party, so it is crucial to have the best cooking equipment available. An outdoor kitchen is not necessarily needed all year round, which makes BBQs a great alternative. Show off your grilling skills and prepare a feast of party food for your guests with the Vista 3 Burner BBQ. The side burner and warming rack are handy features to make your day run smoothly. If you want to involve your guests in the cooking process, opt for a pizza oven so you and your guests can make homemade pizzas. Enjoy an evening of great company and delicious food.

3 burner BBQ.

What are your plans for the bank holiday weekend and even the rest of summer? Check out our range of outdoor furniture and make the most of your outdoor space.