Location, Location, Location!
Location is everything! Picking the location is one of the most important steps in having a successful garden party. If you are fortunate enough to be surrounded by lush landscaping, take advantage of it. If you do not have a perfect venue, check out the Historic Ashland in Wrightsville. Historic Ashland is a historic but modernized event venue featuring the perfect pairings of details from its innate past combined with modern facets. In addition to its two-story renovated 1806 lodge fit for 150 guests, the venue has a beautiful patio area surrounded by delicate florals and greenery.
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If you are looking for a non-traditional venue, plan a vacation to an island, like Jamaica, with Dream Makers Vacation Services. Jamaica has awesome weather all year long! Wherever you choose to have your garden party, make sure to think about your theme and what your guests would enjoy the most. Every party needs someone to capture it, so why not have a photographer capture the moment and the beautiful venue. Our pick would be Mudpie N’ Butterflies.
Plan The Perfect Menu
Planning a menu is just as important as picking a venue. Make sure your menu fits the theme of your party. Focus on light food options with smaller portions—think appetizers or tapas. If you are looking for a fresh, vegan option, be sure to check out Root in Lancaster as they have a rotating vegan menu. For a mix of both hot and cold appetizers, Isaacs offers finger foods ideal for sharing. Ginger Babies in York specializes in fresh, customizable menus, so you do not have to do a thing! If you are thinking more Italian or a little flare, JDK has a Caprese salad bar with fresh herbs, heirloom tomatoes, and mozzarella. For a more BBQ vibe, get a Harvey’s BBQ tray of marinated chicken with a side of Asian coleslaw. Who doesn’t love BBQ in the summer?
For dessert, try some of Providence Cakes’ favorite summer treats like their naked strawberry cake, fresh fruit tarts, mini finger desserts, or their blooming sugar flower cupcakes. Don’t forget to ask your guests about their allergies so everyone can enjoy the menu you put together!
Master The Drinks
Summertime is the perfect time to try new wines and cocktails. To start out the party, Be Balanced recommends infused waters for a refreshing, calming drink, especially for guests who do not usually drink alcohol. Sparkling wines and Rose have been a hit this summer for those looking to indulge. Recently, Nissley Winery came out with sparkling, canned wines, in three different flavors. Every guest is bound to find a flavor they enjoy.
Want a drink good for sharing? The Left Bank recommends trying out their summer favorite, their house white sangria, which is light and refreshing. Looking for a more chill, laid back party? Stop by Collusion TapWorks and grab a four pack to drink and sit by the grill with your closest friends. Victor’s Italian Restaurant says a Portuguese rose is a must for a garden party.
Don’t Forget The Greenery!
Even if you have a lush venue, the perfect florals and greenery will take it over the top. Go for muted flower tones and plants like ivy, to give your party that wow factor. Simple centerpieces do the trick. No need to get fancy, Blooms by Vickery thinks rustic and natural is the way to go for a garden party. To go an extra mile, stop by Foster’s Flower Shop in York to get flowers to add in your hair or a cute floral backdrop.
