​CaterHire’s Top Tips for Hosting a Summer Garden Party 2024

Summer is well and truly on its way, and what better way to embrace the sun’s warm rays than to throw the ultimate garden party for your nearest and dearest? Whether you’re serving up a barbecue or sharing your favourite summer salad recipe with your guests, our guide is here to help you on your way to planning the perfect outdoor occasion.

With decades of Award Winning Service to our valued customers, we know parties inside out here at CateHire.ie! Any linked products mentioned in this blog can be conveniently hired from CaterHire.ie, and you can enjoy the convenience of Click & Collect or Next Day Delivery options for your event needs.

Time is of The Essence

When throwing a summer garden party, timing is important. Keep in mind that the sun’s rays are at their strongest from around 10am-4pm. We suggest a late afternoon or early evening start time to ensure that you and your guests can enjoy the event without overheating.

Comfort Is Key

Sometimes the little things make the biggest difference, and having the right options to make your guests comfortable will be a welcome addition. We recommend having extra cushions to hand, as well as blankets (in case it gets chilly!), fans and even some handy SPF & hats for those UV rays.

Turn Up the Volume (But not too loud!)

Create a playlist of upbeat tunes to keep the atmosphere lively. Consider setting up speakers around the garden to ensure everyone can enjoy the music. Of course, we recommend being conscious and considerate of your neighbours when playing music!

Bugs, Be Gone

Outdoor gatherings will garner attention from bothersome bugs. You can deter the creepy crawlies by positioning citronella candles or torches throughout the garden. Additionally, provide guests with insect repellent wipes or sprays for extra defense against unwanted pests. Want to deter wasps? Try peppermint, clove or lemongrass oil mixed with some water and spray it around your garden before your event begins.

Sit Back & Relax

Well, it’s not time for you to sit back and relax quite yet, but you will once you’ve perfected your planning! We’re referring to your guests’ comfort in this instance. The type of party you’re hosting will determine the type of tables you choose.

Serving food? We recommend our Flow Dinner Table (Medium), a stylish option that seats 4. Hosting more guests? Simply align as many tables as you need! Pair with our Black Volt Chairs for the ultimate combination.

If you’re opting for a more relaxed atmosphere, nothing says “chilled” quite like rattan furniture, offering the perfect beachy vibe. Consisting of the Palm 2 Seater Sofa,

Palm Armchair and Palm Coffee Table / Stool, it’s the perfect setting for summer beverages and conversations.

Dress to Impress

And we don’t just mean you, we mean your table! If you’re serving food at your garden party, a picturesque, summer-inspired table is always a welcome addition.

Begin your table setting with the perfect linen and placemat. A great option for summer linen is a gingham print, nautical-inspired stripes, or of course, pastels! For placemats, choose from a variety of options, such as our Rattan Charger Plate - White,Rattan Charger Plate – Brown and Lace Glass Charger Plate (which pairs perfectly with the Lace Glass Side Plate. All of these options will beautifully match our Venezia Plates & Mediterranean Plates, and our Aqua Blue Cutlery.

Add a hint of luxe to your drinkware with our Diamond Pitcher Blue and Diamond Pastel Blue Wine Goblet, also available in pink.

You may also like to add centrepieces for the finishing touch to your summer tablescape, such as roses, sunflowers or even a selection of plants to dot around your table.

And your table isn’t all you can jazz up for your garden party. You may also like to add colourful bunting, fairy lights (these will look beautiful once the sun sets) and rugs to add texture to your setting. Rugs are also a great option for seating guests outdoors for a casual, laid-back atmosphere.

Food, Glorious Food

And drinks, of course! Even if you’re sure of the number of guests attending, we suggest purchasing/cooking around 10% more than you think you’ll need. It’s always best to have a little too much, which you can always save for leftovers. It’s always best to ask beforehand about any dietary requirements your guests may have, but if you’re unsure, prepare for all eventualities in case. Think universal dishes like salads, light pasta dishes and dips that everyone can enjoy. For beverages, there are a variety of summer classics you may want to serve, such as a cool lemonade, summer punch or a signature cocktail.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!

This is Ireland, after all! We recommend having a plan in place for if the weather isn’t quite as glorious as it’s promised to be. Our Wooden Parasol Cream, Gazebo Black 10ft x 10ft and Patio Heater are just a few options we recommend having in place in case a cool breeze or a downpour sets in.

Let The Games Begin!

It wouldn’t be a party without a game or two, and we stock a wide variety for all ages at CaterHire.ie! Guests of all ages will enjoy the Cornhole Games Set, Giant Jenga, Giant Dominoes and so many more!

Have a question? Contact Us at 01 294 3111 or info@caterhire.ie where our team will be happy to help with any queries you may have. CaterHire: Ireland’s leading Event & Party Hire Specialist.