As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, the excitement for summer parties is now beginning to bubble up. It's the perfect season to gather friends, family and colleagues to enjoy the warmth and create great memories. Just picture it —a glass of ice-cold Pimms in hand, the smoky scent of barbecues in the air, and colleagues and friends mingling in the sun.
Hosting a summer party that stands out requires more than just good food and music. A beautiful venue and location go a long way towards making your event stand out, but there's still work to do to make it pack a (rum) punch! Here are some inspirational ideas to get you started...
1. Serve Up a Gourmet Barbecue
No party is complete without exceptional food and drink, and nothing says summer luxury like a gourmet BBQ at your event. Picture this, expertly grilled meats infused with exotic herbs, paired with vibrant, creative salads that celebrate the best seasonal produce. This isn’t just your average BBQ—it’s a feast featuring locally sourced, high-quality ingredients, all served with a chef's flair. And don’t forget to cater for dietary preferences, because every guest deserves to join in the fun. Need help? Check out our handpicked list of top-notch suppliers who can make it happen.
2. Make Your Drinks Magical
At any summer party, the drinks set the vibe. Imagine frozen cocktails, misty alcohol infusions, and drinks served in the quirkiest ways—like floating trays that add a touch of magic while keeping them chilled! Why not set up a DIY drink station with Sixth Sense, where guests can mix their own creations? Cool, right?! If you’re going with a theme, craft a signature menu of unforgettable cocktails, mocktails and coolers to tie it all together. Plus, think eco-friendly by swapping plastic cups for jam jars or hollowed-out fruit. It's fun, sustainable, and seriously Instagram-worthy!
3. Scoops of Joy... and Ice Cream
Who says ice cream is just for kids? Bring sweet nostalgia to your party with something more than a simple van—think nitrogen-powered ice cream carts that whip up flavours right before your eyes! Sixth Sense can bring the wow factor with their ice cream factory, offering 3,000 flavour combinations (including boozy ones!). Want something even cooler? How about a build-your-own ice lolly station, where guests design their own frozen treats? Perfect for branding at corporate events or product launches too!
4. Shake Up The Conversation with Circus Performers or Sax Players
Entertainment is key to creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether it’s live music, a quirky magician or circus performers, the right act can spark curiosity and conversation among your guests. Fancy something bold? Why not invite aerial artists or a saxophonist to give your party an edge? These performers will not only entertain but also get your guests talking and interacting, making your event truly buzz.
5. Freeze the Summer Fun with Photography at Your Party
What’s a party without great photos? A photo booth isn’t just fun; it’s a keepsake of the day. For a touch of class, you can even go vintage with hand-built, old-school cameras from Smartpics, giving your guests a glamorous, retro vibe. Or if you're at one of our top-notch venues, like an elegant garden setting, hire Say Fromage to create a beautiful video of the day—you’ll thank yourself when the chill of December rolls around and you want to relive those sun-soaked moments.
6. Send Guests Home with a Sweet Souvenir
When the party’s over, send your guests home with a thoughtful memento. Instead of plastic knick-knacks, why not go for something classic, like paper bags filled with traditional sweets? Not only is it a sustainable choice, but it’s also a delicious way for guests to remember your event. It’s a win-win—eco-friendly and fun!
7. Have a Sensational Summer Theme
A theme can transform a party from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether it’s a beach bash, a Hawaiian oasis or a nostalgic garden party, a well-chosen theme brings your event to life and makes it memorable. Hire Space has a diverse range of venues that are perfect for any theme you dream up, so start planning now and make your summer party the talk of the season. Check out our top DIY decoration ideas to get the theme going!
8. Set Up a Backyard Cinema
Fancy something a bit different? A backyard cinema could be the perfect way to take your summer party up a notch. Imagine an outdoor screen, beanbags street food, and maybe even some alcohol-infused candyfloss! It’s a trip down memory lane with a grown-up twist, and your guests will love the novelty. Just make sure to pick a film everyone will enjoy!
9. Show Your Green Side
Last but definitely not least, don’t forget sustainability! Show your guests (and the planet) some love by opting for compostable cutlery, locally sourced food, and rented or DIY decor. You can even get creative by upcycling bottles for your decorations. For more tips on going green, check out our sustainability guide!
We hope these ideas spark some inspiration for your next summer party! From stunning venues to creative suppliers, Hire Space is here to help you create an unforgettable event. Explore our suppliers and venues to get started. Happy planning!
If you're looking for suppliers to come on board to make your event stand out from the crowd, check out our tried and trusted providers for everything from catering to decorations and entertainment. Happy partying!
Author
Gemma Baker
Gemma loves all things social media and keeps busy by creating lots of Hire Space content. When she’s not creating content, you'll find her shopping, exploring or at the gym!
