1. Choose a signature drink
Asubtlerevelry.com
Surprise your guests with a ready-made drink stand. Choose ingredients with seasonal fruits such as rhubarb and mango for a spring-themed cocktail. Our pretty drink picks: <a href="https://www.chatelaine.com/recipe/refridgerator-or-chilled-foods/rhubarb-spritzer/" target="_blank">rhubarb spritzer</a> and <a href="https://www.chatelaine.com/recipes/thai-cocktail-shrimp-recipe-mango-drink/" target="_blank">mango sunrise bevvie</a>.
2. Keep it casual
Jessica Claire via Rubyrhino.co.uk
Hosting a bright and lively outdoor party doesn’t mean that it has to be extravagant. Put together a casual backyard get-together by throwing a couple of pillows on a picnic mat, cover tables with brightly coloured flowers and matching plates and cups, and your leisurely garden party is ready to go!
3. Set the tone
Griffin Gibson via Laniersbooks.com
Music is absolutely essential to setting the ambience and mood right away. Kick it old school with a vintage record player and sweet-sounding vinyls. Encourage your guests to comb through the collection and put on their favourite tunes.
4. Decorate the table
Canvasandcanopy.com
Put together a gorgeous table setting with bouquets of flowers and nature-inspired centrepieces. Place a table runner across the table — it adds an elegant touch and will unify the look.
5. Keep the food simple
Andreas Trauttmansdorff
Don’t stress yourself by trying to serve a grand banquet. Create simple edibles like <a href="https://www.chatelaine.com/meal-type/salads/" target="_blank">salad</a>, <a href="https://www.chatelaine.com/ingredient/sandwich-collection/" target="_blank">sandwiches</a> and finger-food platters that are visually appetizing. Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.chatelaine.com/recipe/world-cuisine-2/shrimp-dip-trio/" target="_blank">Shrimp dip trio</a>
6. String up some lights
Roberto Caruso
As the party goes later into the night, use candle lighting and pretty hanging lights to keep the outdoor ambience going.
