Well summer is finally here, and (we hope) that there will be many warm, sunny days to come, and possibly even the heatwave that the weather people keep promising! Whilst we have the opportunity to do so, many of us enjoy nothing more than spending time outside, and whether it’s with friends, family or even a relaxing afternoon on your own, there’s nothing better than good food and sunny weather. Why not try a yummy picnic, a BBQ on the patio, or wining and dining friends in style for the ultimate alfresco dining experience? It’s sure to impress.
Plan your alfresco event
As with any event it is important to plan in advance, which not only helps give you peace of mind but also the knowledge that you’re far less likely to come across any unwanted surprises. Think about how many you are catering for and their dietary needs and requirements. Consider where you’ll be eating and what garden furniture might be needed, as well as any undercover escapes should the heavens decide to unceremoniously open. If you want to be really well prepared then why not create a table plan if it is a more formal gathering, as well as the menu and food preparation times.
Build a grazing board
A great way to serve alfresco is by creating a simple grazing board that your guests can enjoy at their leisure throughout the party. Prepare the perfect serving platter with all your favourite crudites and charcuterie. Why not display your grazing platter on a beautiful chopping board that can also act as an attractive table centrepiece. Serving Trays are also another excellent way to achieve this. For smaller nibbles, dips and olive oil, a Tapas board is a great way for guests to access finger food without risking any cross contamination. Serve up yummy favourites such as cheeses, cured meats and salads with ease; a little something for everyone to enjoy.
Sharing is caring
If you’re hosting a more formal event or have a set amount of people for a larger meal, then it’s helpful to consider preparing dishes such as tray bakes, paella and tagines; simple but beautiful food that can easily be shared out amongst everyone. It is also useful and much less stressful if you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Simply grab your favourite large bowl or casserole pot and serve on your pre-prepared garden or outdoor table, with smaller bowls for guests to either be served or help themselves. The prefect alfresco dining experience!
Set the scene for your alfresco event
Besides the food, setting the scene is really important and also great fun to plan. Not only will it create an interesting setting but also encourage your guests to move around and mingle. Besides the extra garden seating you might need, also consider garden lighting; candle lanterns are great for seating areas as they’ll provide a warm glow into the evening, and are the perfect patio or table accompaniment to your gathering.
Oil torches can really set the scene in the background; carefully place a few garden torches on poles around your garden borders and patio to add a sense of height and depth for the eye, or add smaller oil lamps to the table for another warming glow. Citronella oil burned in torches/lamps also have the added bonus of keeping those pesky insects away and is something that your alfresco dining guests are sure to appreciate!
Alternatively you can also use solar lighting instead. A safe and energy efficient way to light up your garden, they create a beautiful and mystical glow whilst only using the power of the sun, so no mains or plugs needed. Just remember to let them charge beforehand, and once the sun begins to set watch your garden event come alive with the power of solar lighting.
Sometimes the weather isn’t perfect, and if your soiree runs into the evening then you might get a chill in the air. Why not use a firepit not only as a source of warmth, but also a focal and conversational area where your guests can gather and enjoy the evening? Toast some s’mores whilst you’re at it and take the fun late into the night…
