Throwing the perfect summer party: Must have items

Summer is officially here and the British weather is spectacular! Well, adequate… sometimes. However, a little rain shouldn’t be enough to dampen spirits and the upcoming months still present a great opportunity for some serious partying in your garden or at a bigger venue. Here are some of the items you’ll need to make the event a success.

Personalised invitations

For a proper party of note, perhaps signifying an occasion such as an engagement or anniversary, the bespoke invitation is the perfect introduction. Personalised cards are easy to create online and add a touch of real class to the occasion. You may also wish to include a menu of the food and drinks on offer, and consider a personalised thank you card afterwards if some of your guests go above and beyond with their gifts.

Food – savoury

For most people summer party food means one thing – barbecues. The delicious smell of roasted meat in the sunshine is a wonderful thing, and there is an almost limitless number of variations to get you salivating. Cook tried and tested favourites such as chicken, burgers and sausages but then throw in a couple of more unusual options, such as these beauties. And veggie or vegan friends? No problem.

Food – sweet

Cakes or ice cream will satisfy most party guests, but for a really impressive display why not put on your pinnie the day before and get in the kitchen? The BBC Good Food website can help you prepare with mini cream tea bites and mini choc ice balls, while Food.com has some tasty treats in the form of frozen fudge pops and mango-coconut popsicles here.

If all else fails, the noble cupcake will do the job.

Entertainment for children

If kiddies are coming make sure there’s something there to entertain them, such as a small bouncy castle, paddling pool or mini goalposts and ball. If all else fails press the panic button – or an x, square, triangle or circle – and borrow a games console for the afternoon.

Alcohol

No party would be complete without a good selection of alcoholic beverages. Go for a blend of beers, cocktails, punches and wines – and don’t forget the soft drinks for the designated drivers.

Decorations

These will largely depend on the theme of the event, but no matter if it’s rustic, Wild West, Hawaiian or another idea you can personalise the day even further with napkins, posters, and other gifts. As ever, Pinterest leads the way with ideas including DIY lanterns, bouquets and even wreathes.

Music

The key to good party music is to mix it up a bit. Yes, the odd dose of Abba and Grease Megamix is potentially permissible, as is the latest R and B or hip-hop, but several hours of it is a little excessive. Instead, prepare several playlists of different genres and play them as necessary, so you can alter the vibe of the event at the touch of a button.

The editorial unit