Five ways to spice up your summer party

As summer draws to an end, final al fresco parties are in swing. Here are five ways to spice them up!
It's that time of year again - rainy, cloudy winters make way for lush green summers that bring friends and family together. Summertime is widely considered party season in the UK, and although summers are often brief in these beloved isles, we Brits know how to make the most of them. Whether you are looking to create a lavish alfresco cocktail party to impress your friends or entertain the family with a backyard BBQ bash, here are 5 tips to spice up your summer party:

Choose a Theme 
Hawaiian luau? French riviera? Whatever you choose, pick a theme that runs through the menu, look and feel of your party. This will make your summer party cohesive and easier to plan. Even the smallest details can make a world of difference, and remember that the food can oftentimes be a big part of your party decor. Thinking of a Mexican themed fiesta? Create a fajita station and dress the table with mini cacti and pinatas. However far you want to take it, a little effort goes a long way.

Play with Lighting 
Bring out the ambience by incorporating tiki torches, candles, and hurricane lamps to your decor. Even white Christmas fairy lights dotted in the trees will add a magical feel and create a gorgeous atmosphere, no matter the time of year.

Make a Signature Cocktail 
Think of a special drink that will complement your party theme and create a signature cocktail for the evening. It will make your summer party effortlessly festive and easier for you to plan. Spice up your cocktail by incorporating unique embellishments such as edible flowers. Bloom and Wild's June Blush is a perfect cocktail for an English summer garden party, complete with edible sugared rose petals - what better way to celebrate a British summer?

Create the Perfect Playlist  
A bad playlist can make or break a party! Set the mood right and plan your playlist based on your theme and audience. Spotify is the perfect playlist maker and you can choose pre-made playlists based on your theme and mood. Compilation mixes like Thievery Corporation, Hotel Costes and Buddha Bar are a great choice for evening summer parties and always have a number of grown up jazzy world beats that beautifully complement the mood of any party. Or you can ask guests what their favourite song is and take requests. Always be sure you have enough music to play continuously - you don't want to break the mood.

Don't Forget Florals 
A few small flower arrangements can go a long way when decorating your space for your summer party. A few posies in mason jars on tables, or a small bunch of flowers in the washroom can add a special touch to your party. Be sure to always go for seasonal blooms such as dahlias, peonies or English roses and keep the arrangements loose and free.

Make your next summer party memorable and spice things up by incorporating some of these tips. For more summer party drink recipes or a guide on the best flowers to use for your decor, visit Bloom and Wild.