How to Decorate for a Garden Party: A Guide to Outdoor Elegance

There’s something deliciously nostalgic about a garden party. Maybe it’s the dappled sunlight filtering through trees, the clink of glasses under a summer sky, or the heady scent of roses mingling with grilled peaches and herbs. Whatever the magic is, the secret lies in the details—and we’re here to help you get them just right.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a milestone, or simply the joy of being together, here’s how to create a garden party that feels effortless, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.

1.

Start with the Table

The table is where everything happens—long conversations, second helpings, and stories passed down like family heirlooms. Begin with a tablecloth that makes a statement. We recommend linen for its relaxed elegance and natural texture—our block-printed linen tablecloths are especially lovely in the open air, where sunlight brings out every nuance of the print.

Layer with a table runner for texture, and don’t be afraid of bold patterns or colour. This is not the time to be shy. A vibrant table says, “Come, sit, stay awhile.”

-The photo above contains the Lemon Yellow Stripe Tablecloth by Nic Brittin

2.

Play with Natural Elements

Think beyond traditional flower arrangements. Forage branches, herbs, or flowering vines from the garden. A handful of rosemary in a glass jar, or tumbling nasturtiums in old jam pots, can be more enchanting than a formal bouquet.

Scatter seasonal fruit—figs, lemons, peaches—down the centre of the table for a lush, edible display.

3.

Light It Right

As the sun dips, lighting becomes everything. Lanterns, tea lights in jam jars, and tall taper candles in mismatched holders create a warm, golden glow. String lights overhead or through tree branches add a twinkling canopy—utterly romantic and practical as the evening sets in.

4.

Mix Up the Seating

There’s no need for formality. Mix bench seating with vintage chairs and floor cushions. Layer blankets over chairs for guests to wrap around their shoulders as the night cools. The key is comfort—your guests should feel like they could stay until the stars come out (and they will).

5.

Add a Personal Touch

Place handwritten name cards or wildflowers tucked into napkins. It doesn’t have to be fussy—it just needs to feel intentional. These are the details people remember.

Place handwritten name cards or wildflowers tucked into napkins. It doesn’t have to be fussy—it just needs to feel intentional. These are the details people remember.

6.

Create a Soundtrack

Music sets the mood without stealing the show. I won’t begin to give you music advice but keep a portable speaker hidden in the shrubbery and let the garden sing.

7.

Leave Room for Magic

Not everything needs to be planned. The beauty of a garden party lies in its looseness. A child running through a sprinkler, an impromptu toast, a dish passed down the table again and again. Leave room for those moments. That’s where the true decorating happens.

Whether you’re gathering a dozen friends or just a few loved ones, remember: beauty doesn’t require perfection. It asks only for intention, a bit of whimsy, and a willingness to slow down and savour.

Here’s to long tables, full hearts, and nights that stretch on like summer itself.

Beautiful Table Linen and homewares available at www.nicbrittin.com