Its party time – make the most of your garden this summer

Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, sip a few cocktails under the sun, and finally get that healthy glow, and what a better way to do these things than by having a garden party! New homes builder Bellway East Midlands knows how important it is for people to enjoy their homes and share them with friends and family.

Bellway sales manager Rob Blockley says: “I find that people really want to have summer parties, but they are concerned that it will take a lot of work and money. However, with some simple preparation, they can entertain friends without too much expense.

“It doesn’t have to be a formal affair. In fact, guests usually appreciate just having a place where they can relax and chat without too much fuss. Bellway wants homeowners to fully utilise their outdoor space, and a simple garden party is one of the best ways of doing that.”

Here is Bellway’s guide to preparing your home and garden for this summer’s outdoor festivities:

1. Mow-town: People aren’t the only ones who enjoy the warmth and sunshine; plants love it too. And if you don’t watch out, you’ll have a jungle instead of a garden in no time. Even if you’re going for the unkempt look, be sure to mow the grass regularly, trim the hedges, and prune the shrubs. One thing is natural and another is neglected!

2. Barbie World: Be as simple or state-of-the-art as you want, but a basic grill is a must for the outdoor entertainer. It’s an easy way to cook, and best of all, you usually don’t have to do all the work yourself. Just lay out some plates of assorted burgers, sausages, and meats, a variety of veg, and some breads, and let your guests make as much or as little of what they fancy.

3. The Sound of Music: One of the best parts about having an outdoor party is the sounds in the garden. Nature’s symphony offers quite an array, with leaves rustling in the wind and birds chirping out their hearts content. However, to add more atmosphere to your fete, be sure to play suitable mood music. Do you want a cool and relaxed mood? Then think about some lounge or bossa nova. A trendy, party theme? Get some songs off the charts. Have fun creating your play lists, and be sure your guests would like them too.

4. Get Your Drink On: Guests’ tastes can vary widely. Giving guests limited choice between lager or Merlot will rarely get people in a party mood. The key is variety, so always have more than one beer and more than one wine on hand. And it can’t hurt to offer one or two speciality cocktails. If you think your guests appreciate tradition, possibly bucks fizz or Pimms would satisfy. But for the more daring bunch, look up some unusual concoctions online and try them out! Finally, make sure to have a wide variety of non-alcoholic drinks to offer.

5. Stock up: Let’s face it some of the best parties happen spontaneously. A good host always has something to offer other than last night’s leftovers. Stock up on freezer and cupboard snacks like sausage rolls, crisps, easy to microwave goodies, and fresh, creamy dips. If there are children coming, be sure to have some treats to offer them too. Ice cream is always a winner.

6. Easy entertainment: Some guests are an endless well of conversation, but others can be a bit shy, to say the least. To avoid the awkward stare and giggle, have a supply of fun, easy sources of outdoor entertainment. Playing cards, poker chips, and dominoes are usually a good bet. For the kids, setting up a portable sprinkler will offer endless hours of entertainment for them.

7. Uninvited guests: Alright, so not everything about summer’s a treat. Bugs, especially mosquitoes can be a real nuisance. To guard against these uninvited guests, be sure to get citronella candles, and light them a few hours before guests arrive. For especially troublesome days, offer your guests bug spray or lotion.

8. Disposable Plates and Cutlery: Your guests shouldn’t be the only ones having a good time. Spending the entire party washing up is no way to have fun. Instead, buy paper plates, cups and cutlery. If you have an aesthetic bent, you can get decorative, high quality plates for just a few quid more. Be sure to buy environmentally-friendly products which are biodegradable.

9. Tea Time: If you are a meticulous planner, then having a more sophisticated outdoor party might prove more exciting. For a tea party with a difference, be sure to offer a variety of teas, black, green, and herbal. Try to get more upscale brands or even loose teas to give your guests an unusual treat. For food, offer a mix of light sandwiches and then splurge on the desserts. A tray of different biscuits, tarts, and cakes looks both gorgeous and tempting!

10. Emergency!: Here in England, we’re no strangers to the sudden rain shower. In case the weather goes from dry to damp, be sure to have enough indoor seating and space to accommodate your guests. Also consider several forms of indoor entertainment: movies and board games are sure to please the crowd. This way, if you’ve got to move the party from the garden to the living room, your guests can still have a good time.

For further information on the latest home designs and developments from Bellway East Midlands, visit the company online at Bellway.co.uk.