Searches for ‘the ultimate guide to throwing a garden party’ have increased by 100% over the last 12 months[1]. There’s a lot of preparation needed to host and entertain guests outdoors, which in the UK especially, includes being ready for whatever weather is on the horizon.

It typically rains for approximately 170 out of 365 days per year in Britain [2], however, the odds of better weather are in Brit’s favour this year with a heatwave predicted to be coming in April. Because of this, VonHaus has revealed their top tips on how to host the ultimate garden.

Practical pieces

Hosting a party can be stressful at the best of times and the unpredictable British weather can add an extra level of uncertainty to your party. Therefore, it’s important to ensure you have the right equipment and appliances to keep your guests entertained and happy.

Grab yourself a gazebo

For any British outdoor party, one of the most important pieces of equipment to have set up and ready to go is your gazebo. Great for keeping glaring sun off your guests, it also serves as a rain shelter should you experience a period of downpour mid-party.

Set up your gazebo where the sun doesn’t hit your garden, so that your guests can make the most of the good weather whilst also having the option for some covered shade. Ensure that your gazebo is properly secure when setting up to minimise the risk of it blowing away should the winds pick up throughout your party.

Finally, make sure that your gazebo space is big enough to cover the number of guests you have attending, so that everyone can stay dry and continue to party whatever the weather.

Firepits are a must have

The next must-have item on your list is an outdoor firepit. Whilst it can be a lot of fun enjoying the British weather in the daytime, the cold weather can roll in faster than you realise once the sun has gone down. Place firepits and outdoor heaters around your garden to keep the party alive.

Make sure that your firepits are positioned in an open space and away from equipment including your gazebo and other indoor spaces to prevent the risk of accidents. Most importantly, if you choose to use a firepit, make sure that you keep an eye on the younger party guests and ensure that they stay away from the firepit at all times.

Make the most of your outdoor seating

If you’re inviting many guests, there’s not always going to be a spare seat for everyone. A great way of adding extra seating space, without your garden looking cramped with chairs, is by preparing two to three picnic blankets around your green space. Your picnic blankets can be transferred to the gazebo, should the weather turn grey.

Bring out the barbecue

The final practical piece you need at any garden party is a barbecue set-up.

Ensure that your cooking equipment is well ventilated should you want to cook under the protection of your gazebo. If the weather is too much for your barbecue, make sure you have a plan B, and cook your food in your kitchen before serving it outside.

When adding the finishing touches, hang decorative bunting and outdoor hanging lights from your gazebo, fences, and trees to enhance the party atmosphere. Complete your outdoor party with tunes to match the vibe, and host a round of games for the younger (and older!) guests of the party to enjoy.

Emily Caloe, Senior Buyer at VonHaus, said: “The British weather is unpredictable at the best of times, which means hosting outdoor parties can be a challenge. Make sure you’ve got a plan B for if the weather suddenly turns.

“A gazebo is a fantastic addition to any British outdoor party. They are so versatile for keeping the party alive when the weather has different plans. They also keep guests away from the house, so any after-party mess is contained in one space.

“Of course, it goes without saying that you need to ensure your equipment is set-up and working properly before the party begins. Make sure any fire pits are kept in a safe place and out of reach of little ones attending your event. It’s also important to ensure your larger pieces of equipment, such as your gazebo, are tied down so there is minimised risk of the weather causing any accidents.”