It's almost looking like we can actually plan evenings eating out in the garden, up to this stage of our British summer we’ve generally had to resort to the spontaneous barbecue or impromptu transfer of the meal arrangements to outside. Not an unusual predicament to be in for most of us, but we may just be able to think a little more ahead now.
So, invite the neighbors, family or friends around - set a date and you're halfway there. Then, think about these five things to make your evening glimmer:
1. Lighting - as essential for outdoors as well as in. Placing glimmers of light around your garden will always add extra atmosphere. Use storm lanterns, most evenings aren't still enough for a candle to stay lit for very long so these are a great and attractive solution. If you don't have any around, make your own mini lanterns using glass jars and tea lights. Light the path to your house by putting candles along the entrance and at key points around the place (like the way to the bathroom) as well as at your table. Outdoor garlands can add a festive touch - there are lots to choose from here.
2. Food - the beauty of summer dining is that so much can be done in advance. Prepare some salads, dips and just dress them before guests arrive. The star of the show might be your barbecue or a roast - all of which is delicious with salad and new potatoes or jackets cooked slowly on your outdoor fire. Some more summer dining ideas here. Set up an ice bucket outside for drinks so guests can help themselves and it saves you to-ing and froing to the kitchen - your bucket could be anything from a galvanized steel bath to a plastic bendy bucket they all do the job it just depends how far you're pushing the style factor. Make sure you have plenty of food and drink, there's nothing worse than running out!
3. Seating - this can make your garden look instantly inviting and cozy. Think about the atmosphere you're trying to create and adapt your seating accordingly. Create some 'nooks' where guests can talk one-on-one. Put a couple of chairs in a corner of the garden that has a nice view. Make sure any older guests get a good comfy chair before people stark plonking themselves down. Check you have enough seats for everyone to sit at the dining table (if that's the plan for the evening) and that all your chairs will survive the evening (mend or remove any broken ones). A dining table that seats everyone creates a wonderful atmosphere and ensures nobody feels left out or 'stuck'. Garden seating has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, maybe it's time to update yours - have a browse here for our latest offers.
Image via: www.maisonmarigold.blogspot.co.uk - Fusion Furniture Store stocks similar chairs to the ones pictured here.
