Laura Jackson on… The return of the deckchair and finding the best vintage pieces to get garden-party ready
Our columnist and consummate host shares her tips on how to prepare for garden-party season
After what has felt like an endless winter, everyone is raring to go this summer. Personally, I am desperate to entertain again and, for the moment, the only place to make that happen is outdoors. Yes, weather is a factor, but when we have it good, warm British evenings are just the best. Plus, if you’re fortunate enough to have one, the garden can be the perfect place to host friends and family.
To do that, you’ll need outdoor furniture, which can be tricky to choose. I bought the French marble-topped table that sits in my garden from a dealer I found on Instagram called Galerie De La Madeleine. In my opinion, giving something a second life by buying vintage is the best option. You can find French bistro tables that can fold away for winter on Facebook Marketplace, Ebay and Gumtree. I’ve said it before, the thrill is in the chase for me.
Maybe it’s because of the increased interest in British holiday destinations, but I also think deckchairs will make a comeback this year. The Stripes Company sells lots of different types of deckchair canvas you can use to reupholster secondhand finds or freshen up old favourites. Whatever you pick, be sure to add some bright cushions that will offer character (and comfort) for guests.
I recently bought some beautiful woven decorative placemats for the table from Madwa, an incredible brand that believes in empowerment through employment. The pieces are made by women in Eswatini, showcasing the African country’s traditional weaving skills. You can buy them via Gail’s Bakery (any excuse for a visit).
As this season, more than ever, gardens will become an extra room of the house, I have developed a thing for outdoor rugs. They add some real magic to a patio or terrace – I love Nanimarquina’s ‘Tres Outdoor’ range. Perfect for shading from the sun, parasols are also having a moment and some great companies have popped up of late, including Sunday Supply Co and Business & Pleasure Co.
When it comes to food and drinks for these first gatherings, I’ll be keeping it simple with peach bellinis and big salads for everyone to get stuck into. I’ve been working on my kitchen garden through winter (more on that next month), so I’m looking forward to serving lots of home-grown summer vegetables. And, if the occasion calls for hot food, I can highly recommend a ‘Firewok’ for cooking over open flames (so much more dramatic than a barbecue!). Alternatively, turn garden parties into pizza parties with the Ooni pizza oven. A friend informed me it was one of their best lockdown 1.0 investments.
One thing is for certain: it’s going to be a summer to remember for those of us who love to host. No matter what size your garden, or what the weather brings, let’s make sure we enjoy it. See Stockists page for details of all the stores mentioned