Summer Event Hosting Tips

As we celebrate the summer with an abundance of garden gatherings, we are sharing our top tips, following hosting our very own summer event in June. A few weeks ago, we took to The Cotswolds where we hosted our ‘Wonder of Summer’ event; inviting guests to come along and share with us, in an evening of honouring the summer season. Whether you are wanting to elevate small gatherings with friends, or have a wedding just around the corner, we share our top tips on themes, tablescapes and activities that will uplift your celebrations.

Set the scene for your summer celebrations, with an idyllic garden party set up. Opt for a classically English garden party theme to incorporate an air of nostalgia and elegance, or honor the sporting events of the summer with a nod to ‘sports core’. Whichever you choose, adopting a theme will elevate your gatherings with purpose and provide direction for the rest of your decoration and entertainment.  

With the Olympics just around the corner, now is the perfect time to host a sport inspired party; drawing inspiration from sportswear, the ‘sports core’ trend focuses on clean lines, abundant colours and a preppy/retro feel. Incorporate this into your party decor with vintage touches and nods to classic sporting events like Wimbledon and the Olympics for an essence of nostalgia mixed with a contemporary feel. Alternatively, make a subtle nod to patriotism with a classic red, white and blue colour palette to see you through the sporting events and beyond.

Curate a table to compliment your theme with tableware and accessories to match. Pair bud vases with fresh blooms with an abundance of candles, that flood your table with a warm glow as your evening descends into dusk. Combine tall and short pillar candles, with votives dotted between, and to make a statement, place small lanterns along the centre of the table to fill the space and add something different to your normal tablescape. Lean into the element of nostalgia and cherishing moments of celebration with instant cameras on the table, for your guests to snap some pictures from the night and remember forever.

Complete your gathering with an activity that will make your celebration one to remember. Opt for garden games like croquet or cricket if you wish to inject some competition or host a creative workshop for a more relaxing experience. Watercolour painting is the perfect choice for a laid back, therapeutic activity that all your guests will enjoy. Accompanied with a drink of choice, you can paint and sip the evening away.