A boxy tray with deep sides is a good idea when carrying tall glasses. Hand round nibbles in colourful lightweight bamboo bowls.
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Invest in a drinks table
Find the tray from Ella's Kitchen Company, and the napkins from Paperchase. The cocktail picks are from John Lewis.
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Use a storage trunk
Use a storage trunk or garden table covered in a pretty runner as a serving area. Choose stylish polycarbonate wine flutes and champagne buckets to avoid breakages on the terrace.
Find a similar trunk from I & JL Brown. The table runner is from IKEA.
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Send out pretty invites
Send out invites that double up as pretty drinks coasters - ask your guests to bring them along to use at the party.
The coaster invitations are from Notonthehighstreet.com, and the flutes are from Cater For You.
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Hang a banner
Hang a vintage banner with twinkling fairy lights for a warm greeting.
This handmade sign is from Not On The High Street, and the lights are from The Glow Company.
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Get playful with a pinata
Children - not to mention adults - love to play this fun game. Fill the piñatas with sweets and hang from a branch for all ages to take part and enjoy.
The pinata is from Talking Tables.
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Decorate with flower garlands
Pretty garlands are a quick and easy way to get your garden in the party spirit. Dress up a seating area with an assortment of floral cushions.
Find similar chairs and slips at OKA. The flower garland is from Talking Tables, and the cushions from John Lewis.
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Group paper lanterns together
Rather than hanging a single lantern, group a few together in colourful 'bunches' so they look like party balloons.
The paper lanterns, and battery operated lights are from The Hanging Lantern Company. The chair and sofa are from OKA.
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Create a pathway
Divide and light walkways with lines of paper-bag lanterns.
The lanterns are from UK Paper Candle Bag Lanterns.
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Add a candle centrepiece
Float lantern candles in shallow bowls for a flickering glow on outdoor tables. Never leave any burning candles unattended.
The floating candles are from The Glow Company.
Looking for more ideas? Watch our video of garden party tips.
