The décor-One of the first things you must consider before sending out invitations to your garden party is-how does your garden look? Timing is crucial when you are depending on the outdoors to provide the main decorations for your party. If you are looking to have your garden filled with blooming flowers will it be ready by your party date? It is also important to determine if you need to undertake any major projects in the garden before your party. You don't want your guests to have step around barricades or large dirt piles. If you feel unable to examine your garden with a critical eye call in a close friend who can point out things that need to be done before you send the invitation out.

 The logistics-This category of consideration takes into account where will your guests sit, eat, dance and will they have enough light to do so? While the idea of a garden party means guests wandering through the garden and mingling with each other it is also important that you have some seating available so that people can be comfortable. Generally food is served buffet style on plates that can be carried as guests mingle. If you are hosting a more formal occasion such as a garden wedding reception or dinner party you will need to make sure that you have adequate seating. Make sure that your garden will accommodate any tables and chairs you will bring in and that your guests will not have to spend the party balancing on sinking chairs or steadying the tables. And finally it is crucial that you have adequate lighting. While evening parties will call for soft outdoor lighting do not make the mistake of thinking that the stars above will do. Outdoor lighting can consist of strung lights, solar poles that come on after dark and candles placed strategically around the party. Not having enough light can be both frustrating and dangerous for your party guests.

 The food-Most party occasions center around the food. Having food served in your garden can present some unique challenges but with planning you can have a seamless transition from kitchen to garden. For a traditional garden party it is best to plan a buffet that can be served on plates small enough for guests to carry with them while mingling. Generally even for more formal occasions a buffet can work well since serving can be difficult in a garden situation. Hosts must also be cognizant of any food handling concerns such as keeping cold food cold and hot food hot. In addition it is best to place food where it can be easily replenished from the kitchen.

 The weather-This can be the make or break of a garden party. If you are lucky enough to live in a warm weather climate where temperatures are fairly stable you will not have to worry quite as much. But keep in mind that even summer evenings can turn cool and plan ahead. Portable outdoor heaters can keep the chill off your guests and the party going strong. For some group fun consider putting in a fit pit where guests can gather as the evening goes on. If you don't want a permanent fire pit there are now several affordable portable options as well. And finally if you do live in a climate where the weather can be unpredictable be sure to have an indoor option available if the worst should happen. Just keep in mind that should your garden party have to be moved indoors you will have a great party story for the years to come!