Host an Afternoon Garden Party

There's no better way to celebrate spring than with a garden party filled with flowers and friends. We're sharing stunning ideas for tea party food, DIY flower arranging, and pitcher cocktails. It's time to head outside. 

Keep the garden party food fuss-free by serving up a variety of topped toasts. From sweet chocolate-topped bread to a savory spread of cheese, these easy-to-eat apps are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea (or cocktail!).

Vintage brass serveware and wood pedestals give this tea party an eclectic touch. Serve classic tea sandwiches and treats in a tiered stand. Cake pedestals aren't just for dessert! Arrange a variety of fruit and cheese on a wooden cake stand for height. 

Serving up drinks in champagne coupes makes this garden party feel extra special. Mixing up a pitcher cocktail ensures you'll be free to enjoy the party. Just before serving, add a few slices of fresh fruit or pomegranate seeds to each glass. 

In addition to a few special cocktails, serve up a big pot of tea. For the prettiest presentation, add a few sprigs of fresh mint just before pouring. Weather warming up? Serve the tea cold over ice. 

Don't have enough patio seating for a party? No problem! Grab a few kitchen chairs and bring them outside. Scatter pillows and blankets for a cozy setting your guests will feel instantly comfortable in. Place small arrangements on tall candlesticks to add height to your dining table. 

A low flowing flower arrangement is the perfect DIY centerpiece for this laid-back garden party. Start by placing large blooms in a stone dish. Add in smaller flowers and stems to fill in the arrangement. Finish with a few sprigs of greenery draped over the side. 

Set up two designated areas at this crafting garden party. Set up a buffet and dining table in one! It encourages guests to sit and chat while they pass food family-style. The second station is for flower arranging. Cover the surface of a long table with kraft paper for easy cleanup. 

Create the ultimate flower arranging station with bunches of grocery-store flowers in a monochromatic color scheme. Tulips, carnations, ranuncuuluses, lisianthuses, and roses work well. You'll need about 8 stems per guest. 

During the tea party, let guests arrange their own bouquet to take home. Trim each flower to 10 inches long so they fit inside the paper. Aside from the stems, you'll need sheets of plain or patterned tissue paper and ribbon. 

Provide supplies so each guest can take home their own bouquet to enjoy. Use sheets of kraft paper or gift wrap tied with about half a yard of velvet or silk ribbon. Look for ribbon pieces or scraps at your local crafts supply store.