When May arrives, it ushers in warmer temperatures and is also the start of the bank holiday season. With two public holidays in May, it is the perfect time to plan a garden party. But how can you give yours a party vibe?
Get out the cushions
We’re seeing more choice when it comes to cushions suitable for the outside furniture. Bright and vibrant colours and patterns make for an instant party vibe, a visual welcome too for when your guests arrive at your garden party.
Add extra cushions to your outdoor sofa and garden benches too. Why not opt for large outdoor floor cushions too, great for kids to lounge on?
The small details have it
With one eye on environmental impact, you’ll want to add accessories that are bright and fun but don’t cost the earth. Manufacturers are creating amazing paper pom-poms, ideal for hanging from pergolas, or the outdoor garden bar and fencing to add detail to your garden. Check the packaging for instructions, but most paper accessories and trimmings can be recycled at the kerbside.
Dress the table
Just like you make a super-stylish effort with your dining room table, do the same with your outdoor dining table.
A pretty table covering is a great base from which to build the rest of the table. Stick with the bright colours, opting for the on-trend flower patterns on table covers and napkins that designers are using this summer.
Add pots of flowers to your table too, along with candles arranged in an informal pattern across the centre of the outdoor dining table. You could also add small pot plants too, perfect for making the most of nature.
Invest in outdoor seating
If you enjoy hosting spring bank holiday garden parties, you’ll need to consider investing in outdoor seating that performs time and time again. As well as an outdoor dining bench, consider opting for an extendable outdoor dining table with plenty of dining chairs to accommodate your guests.
Patio chairs work well too, especially to create for informal seating areas. A rattan sofa is also an ideal purchase – great for dressing up with colourful throws and cushions – as well as a garden sofa set, complete with low-level coffee table for cocktails and coffee! Don’t forget to add shade to some seating areas too for those guests needing a break from the sun.
Games and socialising
The best parties are those that seem to flow effortlessly, but as any great party host will tell you, it takes a lot of background work to make it happen. 
And that means having plenty of things for your guests to do – lawn party games from giant ‘Jenga’ to the more raucous ‘Twister’ game – to spaces that are for socialising. Food is always the big draw at any party, as too are the drinks. Serve cocktails and fruit punches from your outdoor garden bar.
A big welcome
And finally, as with any party, the summer garden party vibe is set from the moment your guests arrive, so make sure that the welcome is personal and warm.