1. Tableware
A beautifully set table sets the tone for a fun celebration. Choose a palette and stick to it, such as blue with hints of metallic, or an all-white scheme for an elegant celebration. For some alfresco table inspiration, look no further than this poolside party from our friends at Homes to Love.
2. Ice, ice baby
You can never have too much ice. It’s the one thing you’re guaranteed to run out of, so if anyone asks what they can bring along – tell them to bring ice. Display it in ice buckets with tongs for individual drinks. Have a drinks bucket containing bottles of beer and wine and cover liberally with ice to keep room in the fridge.
3. Got nuts
Offer guests something a cut above a packet of salted peanuts with some delicious homemade nut assortments. Perfect for snacking on arrival (not to mention throughout the night), nuts are the ultimate party favour. Try these smoky cashews, and garlic & herb almonds to get the party started.
Styling by Fiona Hugues. Photo Jani Sheperd/Gatherum Collectif.
4. Flower power
Floral arrangements make a great talking point, and add a fresh touch to table settings. Opt for a short vase with stems cut low rather than a tall one which might get knocked over once these tips for getting the party started come into effect. Think about matching your blooms to your table setting for extra effect. One type of bloom is another way to unify your party space.
5. Retro snack revival
Create a talking point with some snacks straight out of the seventies. Everyone loves a cocktail hedgehog, right? We’re talking cheeseballs, crudité platters and maybe the odd fondue station or prawn cocktail.
Try these tips for making cheese balls, a recipe for a fruit platter with a difference, chocolate fondue and a killer prawn cocktail.
6. Nice to meat you
A cheese platter is an expensive party addition, which is why we say viva la meat platter! Create a trio of smaller-sized cold cut platters with one kind of meat on each – salami, mortadella and prosciutto would be ideal.
7. The sound of music
Do not, we repeat do NOT let the music stop. Prepare a playlist in advance that covers at least five hours of tunes, or if the budget extends to it think about a DJ. You can also use apps or websites such as 22 Tracks which curate a playlist for you based on the event and your music tastes.
8. A quick dip
A party ain’t a party without a medley of dips, and no we’re not talking onion dip using packet soup. Here are some to try:
9. Cocktail hour
And now for the fun part. The last thing you want to be doing when hosting a party is shaking individual cocktails and painstakingly muddling limes. Prepare-in-advance drinks such as jugs of Pimms cocktails and sangria are ideal party drinks. Here are some to try:
Aperol and grapefruit cocktail
Strawberry and elderflower mocktail
10. Guest list
You’re throwing a party, and on top of nailing the ice and the snacks, your top priority as host is to ensure people are comfortable. Get the right mix of friends in attendance and decide whether that includes family and work colleagues too. Once steps 1-9 are nailed, step 10 will be a breeze.
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