PARTY PIECES
With the sunny days promised to return, wellbeing guru Liz Earle reveals her favourite finishing touches to SAM WYLIE-HARRIS
There’s the chance of an Indian summer... so here’s how to host a glorious garden party
Forecasters are predicting an Indian summer and with so much gorgeous greenery and brilliant blooms to lure us outdoors, it’s hardly surprising we’re lavishing attention on our gardens and embracing al fresco entertaining. In true Mediterranean style, the hot summer has given us countless opportunities to dine, sip and gather under the sun (or balmy evening skies) – and with – hopefully – plenty more to come, where better to turn to for inspiration on creating the garden feel-good factor than Liz Earle?
The wellbeing guru and entrepreneur adores a summer social and has plenty of ideas for making it special.
“I love garden parties and have had more than usual this year, to make the most of all the balmy summer evenings we’ve had over the last few months.”
As for her approach to styling the event: “This year I’ve been bringing the sun-soaked colours of the tropics to my summer party table,” says Liz,
PERSONALISE PLACE SETTINGS
“Adding a personalised touch to your party, through place settings, is a great way of making sure everyone feels included and welcome, and an easy way to place your guests around the table as you wish,” says Liz.
“I like to paint guests’ initials on water glasses, using a water-based paint so I can re-use the glasses time and time again.”
Otherwise, sweet treats with personal messages to celebrate special occasions will bring charm and fun to the table.
■ Personalised sweet tree – Haribo, from £23.99, GettingPersonal.co.uk who is also founder and editor-inchief of Liz Earle Wellbeing.
“Simple ideas can really transform a plain table top, such as creating beach lanterns using tea lights in jam jars filled with sand and shells.”
Spending time outside also makes us so much more aware of the “seasonality of life”, adds Liz.
Here are her favourite tips for the perfect garden get-together – some of them simple yet hugely effective...
■ For more ideas, visit lizearle wellbeing.com