Entertaining Inspiration: 12 Creative Garden Party Ideas

Ever since Oprah hosted a garden party years ago, I’ve dreamt of throwing one, or even better decorating for one.  The idea of an outdoor party where everyone is wearing festive spring attire and big sun hats sounds like so much fun.

When it comes to decorating for a garden party of any outdoor event for that matter, creativity is key.  And since I have not plans to host my own celebration, I’ve rounded up TWELVE  creative garden party ideas that just might prompt you to host a garden soiree!  Make sure I’m on the invitation list.

Since you usually don’t have walls outside to aid in the decorating, try putting your trees to use.  I love the idea of hanging picture frames decorate with flowers around the party area.  Not only will they create a beautiful backdrop but they make a great photo background as well.

Garden Party Frame Decor

Cut down on having to buy or rent vases for your table setting.  Save food cans and slip them into paper bags to create your flower vases and uniformity amongst your table decor.

Flower Arrangements

Another creative way to incorporate the trees into the decor is by hanging glass bottles from the branches and filling them with flowers.

Hanging Flowers

This idea of suspending umbrellas above the party area may take a bit more work but it is such a fun and creative idea, and well worth the time and effort.

Hanging Umbrellas

tip: You can purchase 6 DIY white umbrellas from Oriental Trading Company for $16.99 and painted or decorated any way you like.

This next idea needs to go into the party hall-of-fame.  Insert the stem of broken wine glasses into planters set up around your party area and use the glass bowl as a votive holder.  Don’t have broken wine glasses on hand?   Head to the dollar store, pick some up and get to breakin’.

Broken Stemware Votive Holders

I love the idea of using real china at a party and a garden party calls for floral plates.  Head to the thrift store and flea market to  stack up on mix and match floral plates.

Floral Themed Dinner Plates

Every party needs a little personalization and these personalized straws are the perfect accent for a garden party.  Plus they’ll help every keep track of their drink.

Personalized Drinking Straws

When table space is at a minimum, use your DIY skill to build a standing service center.  When it’s not in use for a party, fill the buckets with sunscreen, bug spray and all your outdoor lounging essential.  You can even fill the bottom tub with rolled beach towels.

Garden Party Service Center

Photo booths are a bit hit at parties and this idea is just perfect for a garden soiree.  Hang artificial grass against the garage wall or side of the house and frame with beautiful flowers to create a charming photo backdrop.

Photo Booth

What’s a party without games?  Turn a chalkboard into a sign that directs guest to the game area.

Lawn Games Sign

Whenever I’m conducting an entertaining workshop I always remind attendees to have a party favor available for guest.  For a garden party, seed packets displayed in a wheel barrel creates impact and won’t cost a lot of money.

Seed Packet Favors

And here’s another take on the seed packet party favor.  Fill test tubes (available in the dollar section at Michael’s) with flower seeds and have the available near where guest exit the event.

Wildflower Seed Tubes

While you’re entertaining outdoors, make sure to take time and smell the roses!

For more entertaining ideas, check out my Entertaining and Party Inspiration board on Pinterest!

Floral monogram image via