How to Get Your Backyard Ready to Host the Perfect Luncheon

Hosting a backyard luncheon is a delightful way to gather friends and family, enjoy the outdoors, and create lasting memories. But to pull it all off, a successful event will require your backyard to be more than just functional! You’ll need to reconfigure your space to be inviting, comfortable, and well-prepared. We’ve got all the tips and tricks you need in orderer to prepare your outdoor space and make it luncheon-ready!

1.   Start with the Essentials – Furniture That Works for Everyone

Comfortable, weather-ready furniture is the foundation of any backyard gathering. You’ll need enough seating to accommodate all your guests, as well as a sturdy table for serving food. Arrange seating in a way that encourages conversation, such as clusters of chairs or bench-style seating.

If you’re worried about unexpected weather, having waterproof furniture is a game-changer. If it starts to rain, you can focus on moving your guests and food indoors first, knowing your furniture won’t be damaged. Plus, waterproof furniture lets you keep your setup outside long-term without fear of weather damage.

Ideally, you want a combination of dining, casual seating and benches to make different zones if you have the space and resources for different moments of the luncheon.

2. Clean and Declutter Your Space

Before you think about decor, make sure your backyard is clean and tidy! Be sure to trim greenery, this means get the lawn mower out, trim the hedges and remove overgrown plants to create a neat and inviting space. Next you’ll want to wipe down surfaces, start by cleaning tables, chairs, and any outdoor furniture your guests will be using to remove dirt or pollen that collects overtime, you may not realiuse how dirty something is until you get a cloth to it! Then it’s finally onto decluttering. Put away garden tools, toys, or anything that might make the space look messy. Sometimes it’s good to run though the day in your mind and visualise what will and won’t be needed so you can declutter accordingly. A clean space sets the stage for a polished luncheon experience!

3. Provide Shelter for Sun or Rain

No one wants their luncheon interrupted by harsh sunlight or sudden rain, and whist you can’t control the weather, you can ensure your backyard has adequate shelter. We recommend thinking about using the following shelter options depending on the forecast:

• Umbrellas and shade sails: Perfect for sunny afternoons, they provide relief without blocking the outdoor vibe and can even add to the vibe if you dress them up with accessories such as a fun trim!
• Gazebos or pergolas: These permanent structures not only offer shelter but also add elegance to your space, if you’ve got these in your backyard already, utalise them – alternatively, use a portable gazebo!

4. Set the Scene with Colours and Themes

Your luncheon’s atmosphere is all about the small details. Pick a theme and use it to guide your choices for table settings, decor, and more. This will also help your guests dress for the occasion. Think about colour palettes and choose a cohesive colour scheme, such as soft pastels for a spring vibe, bold tropical hues, or classic white and green for a fresh look. Next, use this colour theme to set the table. Use coordinated tablecloths, napkins, and placemats and add cloth napkins and elegant cutlery to elevate the setup if that’s what you’re going for. The last thing you want to do is think about atmospheric touches. Maybe consider string lights, candles, or lanterns for a warm and inviting glow or a few well-placed flower arrangements or potted plants to tie the theme together nicely.

5. Plan a Menu That’s Easy and Delicious

When it comes to food, simplicity is key. Choose dishes that are easy to serve and eat outdoors:

• Appetisers: Platters of fresh fruits, cheeses, and finger foods like bruschetta.
• Main dishes: make a salad that’s sure to impress, grilled proteins, and pasta dishes that can be prepared ahead of time.
• Desserts: Light, refreshing options like sorbets, tarts, or fruit skewers work perfectly.
• Beverages: Serve a mix of refreshing drinks, from sparkling water and iced tea to a signature cocktail or mocktail. Also remember to provide enough ice for guests that are BYOing. You can also set up a self-serve drink station with glasses, ice, and beverages so guests can help themselves.

6. Create the Perfect Vibe with Music and Garden Accessories

Music and small atmospheric details can elevate your luncheon from good to unforgettable. Get the portable speaker going and create a playlist that complements the vibe of your luncheon. If you need some inspiration, look around your set up and think about what energy you want, you could go for soft acoustic tracks for a relaxed atmosphere or upbeat tunes for a lively gathering. For final touches, add cushions and throws for extra comfort. If it’s chilly, consider an outdoor heater or fire pit.

7. Have a Post-Luncheon Plan

Once the event winds down, cleanup will be easier if you’ve planned ahead of time. Set up bins so guests can easily dispose of their waste to make your life easier and have storage containers ready to send guests home with extra food or save it for later.

With these tips, your backyard will be transformed into the ultimate luncheon spot for a stylish, welcoming, and functional place. By investing in the right furniture, decor, and thoughtful touches, you’ll create a memorable experience for your guests while making the process stress-free for yourself.