In The Garden: SPRING
How is entertaining outdoors different than entertaining inside?
I feel there is this element of casual elegance - the allure of garden parties, pretty tablecloths gently blowing in the breeze, dappled sunshine, fragrant flowers - the possibility of all those Martha Stewart ideas.
Are there challenges people need to consider when planning an outdoor party and what things can be done in advance to help streamline the process?
Really try to be prepared so that you do not find yourself running inside a lot, or worse yet, stuck inside cooking while everybody is outside. Attend to all the details - set your table early, plan and prepare an appropriate menu, get your candles in their holders (with matches nearby), have your fire ready to light in the fire pit, set out big beautiful containers of ice for cold drinks, attach bottle openers to containers, have your background music ready to play, and keep a stack of warm blankets nearby for chilly guests. If your cover all the small details in advance you'll actually be able to enjoy the party alongside your guests.
What are the key elements to a successful outdoor party?
A good destination spot for people to gather - a fire pit if the night gets chilly or a shady area if it is a warm day. Also, if it is a casual day party, keep it fun with a few games people can easily jump into - bocce, badminton, croquet - I know it sounds a little corny but it gets people up and moving, laughing and talking.
Can you give some tips to someone who only has time to do a quick garden clean up before a party?
Depending on the garden itself and how much you want to impress your friends with your maintenance skills, the effort really can vary. Put out fresh pillows on your garden furniture, sweep off patios and walkways, set out vases of fresh flowers and pick up all the clutter (that is a big one - all those small unplanted cute containers - hide 'em!). A fresh topping of mulch on your planting beds makes a huge difference. Mow the lawn a couple of days before party. Most importantly, DO NOT point out all of your garden's faults. Everybody knows that gardens are always a work in progress.