Top tips for hosting an unforgettable summer party

Use a theme

So, how do you host a good garden party that won't be forgotten anytime soon? First impressions count as they set the vibe for your party, so it's always a good idea to have some sort of theme in mind. This will also help you work out the decorations, food and entertainment you want. 

There's no need to go over the top when it comes to decor either; it's all in the small details. Try dressing your garden with extra colour by hanging biodegradable balloons or colourful flags from the trees. Or you could hang small twinkling lights in your trees or trellis, and strategically place candles to create pockets of light. Balloon arches are also a good shout and always get guests talking. 

Consider matching your decor to the drinks you're serving - think red and white for Pimm's, for example.

Try batch cocktails

Whoever said you can't host a party and have as much fun as your guests has never heard of batching! Afterall, who wants to run back and forth to the kitchen because you're making each drink on the spot? Luckily, you can make brilliant batch cocktails - all it requires is a little prep.

You can multiply the quantities in pretty much most cocktail recipes to create a batch version. If in doubt, always increase your batch cocktail with more mixers. Mojitos and gin-based drinks are always a winner for warm-weather celebrations, and they can be chilled in advance and served in large amounts. Oh, and remember to serve plenty of water!

It's also much easier than you might think. It's simple maths. If a cocktail requires 50ml of CÎROC and you want to batch 10 drinks, simply multiply by 10 (500ml). Save your empty spirit bottles to funnel the batch into, or if you want to make larger batches get yourself a large glass drinks dispenser with a tap. 

Andy says, “Hosting a summer garden party is all about creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, and pre-batching cocktails are the perfect way to ensure you can spend more time with your guests. It's also much easier than you might think. It's simple maths. If a cocktail requires 50ml (1.75oz) of one spirit and you want to batch 10 drinks, simply multiply by 10 (500ml/17.5oz). Save your empty spirit bottles to funnel the batch into, or if you want to make larger batches get yourself a large glass drinks dispenser with a tap.”

Make fruity cocktails

Summer hosting is the perfect time to get creative and experiment with fresh and fruity cocktails. Serve up light sips and go big with the garnishes or keep things simple and try a delicious mix of fruit juice and soda water.

For a more tropical twist, sangria is always a winner, or a margarita. You could even try creating a signature cocktail that features seasonal fruits like raspberries and strawberries and mix them with gin or vodka for cocktails like Strawberry Vodka Martini or an Elderflower Berry Gin Collins.

Remember not all your guests drink alcohol so make sure they're covered too by serving iced tea and non-alcoholic cocktails, like the Seedlip Pinapple and Jalapeno Margarita.

Add some fun to the mix by creating a DIY drink station with different flavours and garnishes for guests to mix, match, and create unique drinks.

Pay attention to your garnishes

If you want to throw an unforgettable party, pay close attention to the finishing touches. A simple garnish can immediately elevate any drink, bringing out the key flavours while making it feel extra special for guests. 

Garnishes can take your drink from ordinary to extraordinary and they play an important part in any good cocktail. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, it adds flavour and aroma. Our sense of smell contributes 80% to our flavour perception so always try to make the garnish relevant to the drink.

A good example of this is a Picante or Spicy Margarita. Garnish with a slice of chilli to add a fresh chilli pepper aroma. It also lets your guest know to expect some spice in the drink."

Glassware goals

If you want to wow your guests and make your summer drinks Instagram-worthy, get creative with glassware – it really does make a difference!

Let’s start with an easy upgrade. Use mason jar glasses with handles to give drinks a rustic feel or try metal copper mugs to stay faithful to traditional cocktails like a Mint Julep. For a pretty yet eclectic approach, stock up on a variety of coloured glassware - these are easily found in charity shops meaning they’ll often have a vintage flourish too! Or if you’re feeling funky, search out glassware in different shapes. We’re big fans of using pineapple glasses to serve tropical cocktails in like a Pina Colada, or serve up Spicy Margaritas in cactus-shaped glasses for a fun nod to the drink’s native Mexico.

Weather-proof your event

Whether you're throwing a summer party to celebrate the Summer Solstice, August bank holiday or just making the most of the good weather, the UK's summer weather can be famously unpredictable - so have a back-up plan in case of rain or extreme heat.

Consider renting a marquee or gazebo to provide shelter and ensure you have enough seating and shade for guests to stay comfortable. Failing that, clear some space in your dining room should your guests need to retreat inside.

Did someone say garden party?

You've decided to host a garden party, great. After all, there's nothing quite like a party on a hot summers’ day in your garden. But how do you host a good garden party that won't be forgotten anytime soon? First impressions count as they set the vibe for your party, so it's always a good idea to have some sort of theme in mind. This will also help you work out the decorations, food and entertainment you want. This doesn't mean you need to go over the top with the decor; it's just about being a little creative.

Try dressing your garden with extra colour by hanging biodegradable balloons or colourful flags from the trees. Or you could hang small twinkling lights in your trees or trellis, and strategically place candles to create pockets of light. Balloon arches are also a good shout and always get guests talking. You could even try a flower wall if you like the idea of an Instagrammable backdrop.

Serve up a perfect pint

Perhaps your guests aren't a fan of cocktails (we won't judge), stock up on Guinness. Perfect for match days, summer soirees and BBQs, there's nothing like a pint of the 'Black Stuff.'

Using innovative technology which was developed after testing hundreds of prototypes for thousands of hours, the team at Guinness have created this nifty little device (and corresponding cans) that recreate the iconic two-part pour. This pack comes with four cans but the rechargeable device can be used time and time again.