Seating
While the idea for most garden parties is that guests stand and circulate for most of the time, you will still want to provide some seating. Deciding where you want your guests to sit will determine where you'll put your table (if serving food) and where your guests will have space to dance or gather for a conversation. Seat cushions and throws can be used to add a contrast of colour and make seating more comfortable and cosier if it gets chilly. Large waterproof floor cushions and beanbags are ideal for young children or simply relaxing on a hot day.
The Leckford Garden Shop has the perfect selection of tables and seating, elegantly designed to spruce up your patio for both small and large garden areas.
Let There Be Light
With the evenings becoming longer, you may wish to spend more time in the garden, even after the sun goes down, meaning good lighting is essential. It’s also important for your guests to be able to see what they are eating; festoon or garland lights can add a warm and inviting feel to an outdoor space. Draping a string of solar or battery-powered fairy lights around trees or hedges is a quick and easy solution that can be changed at any time.
Food for Thought
From afternoon tea with sandwiches, cake, and scones, to light bites with fresh salads and nibbles, there are so many options when it comes to the food you serve. Consider the time of day; if it’s warm outside, it’s a good idea to avoid fish or poultry that might end up sitting in the sun. Remember your vegetarian guests and those who may have food intolerances. It’s much easier to cater for all tastes these days.
At Longstock Park Farm Shop we supply the very best sustainable and locally sourced produce and products, from essential groceries to artisanal food from our farm in Hampshire and the local area. If you’re in need of some inspiration, take a look at Waitrose's scrumptious summer food and drink recipes, perfect for hosting and toasting the summer.
Summer Drinks for All Tastes
There’s nothing better than a spritzer on a summer’s day, so if you are hiring a bar make sure you have plenty of ice on hand, especially if the weather is hot. Have a mix of red and white wines, and possibly one sparkling. Place bottles of beer in buckets of ice and serve lime wedges as an accompaniment; you can also provide a large punch bowl with or without alcohol for guests to help themselves. Try to be inclusive of your guests’ tastes and keep in mind that some of them may be choosing not to drink on that occasion, especially if they have to drive home afterwards.
At the Leckford Farm Shop, we stock a variety of wines, beers, gins and vodka from local Hampshire businesses, as well as Leckford Estate's own sparkling wine, cider and apple juice.
Prepare for all Weather
The British weather is very unpredictable so an unexpected downpour can ruin even the most fabulous of garden parties. Prepare for all weather with a pop-up gazebo or covering to protect your guests from both rain and shine. Don’t forget about the temperature drop after the sun goes down; we stock award-winning Kadai fire pits that will keep your guests feeling warm even if the evening chill sets in. Expertly crafted with minimum impact on the environment, we stock a range of sizes, styles and fire pit accessories. Visit our Hampshire Garden Shop located at Leckford Nursery and browse the range - perfect for keeping warm in the garden at any time of the year.
Create the Right Garden Space
Before you consider organising a garden party, it's a good idea to assess the state of your outside spaces. To hold an outdoor event, your garden should be in excellent condition. Perhaps you want to entirely revamp your outdoor space, or maybe you simply need a little motivation to revitalise your current garden design. Longstock Park Landscapes is here to assist you in any case.
Visit Leckford Estate
Here at Leckford Estate, we welcome all visitors from around the world, whether you are looking for the perfect selection of seasonal produce to serve at a party, gifts and garden ware for those finishing touches, or need help with all your future gardening needs. We can’t wait to welcome you and for you to discover all that Leckford Estate has to offer. If you have any questions before your visit, please feel free to contact us.
