WHEN IN DOUBT, ADD CANDLES

The combination of flowers and candles instantly takes a garden party tablescape to the next level. To prevent the arrangement from detracting from the food, avoid arrangements that are too wide or large. Just a few candles placed right around the floral centerpiece will make for a picture-perfect set up

A COMMUNITY TABLE

For larger parties, the traditional rounds of 10 can feel disparate and formal. Opt instead for a single long table where guests can share food, conversation, and memories, side-by-side.

ONE-COLOR FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS

For larger parties, the traditional rounds of 10 can feel disparate and formal. Opt instead for a single long table where guests can share food, conversation, and memories, side-by-side.

ONE-COLOR FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS

In this Grecian getaway owned by a Paris-based fashion executive, simple, purple-hued blooms pop against a patterned table cloth. Just be sure to keep your one-color flower arrangement low enough in height, so guests can easily engage in conversation.

USE A RUG

“Define a space with a rug, a canopy or even a glammed-up umbrella,” says Eddie Ross, style director of The Mine. If your outdoor space is sprawling, this will help continue the intimacy of your home into your garden party. Here, Ross uses a natural fiber rug.

TERRARIUM CENTERPIECES

In lieu of a traditional floral centerpiece, fill beautiful glass containers with moss, succulents and berries for a subtle but whimsical addition to your garden party table.

FLORAL-INFUSED DRINKS

A refreshing signature drink is key for any event, especially an outdoor party. Bring the garden theme to the bar with this rose petal sangria, which incorporates fresh-picked blooms into this summertime favorite.

FLORAL-INSPIRED FOOD

Go all out with florals, even in your food. While there are plenty of edible flowersout there, you can also stick to the sweet stuff and prepare these rose, zinnia and hydrangea cupcakes instead. Or, make a batch that matches the flowers in your decor.

POSH PICNIC

Decorate low-lying wooden pallets with a neutral runner for an understated look. Lush centerpieces and dip-dyed napkins elevate the otherwise casual tablescape, while large pillows and throws welcome guests to get comfortable.

There's no better place to mix and match patterns than in a space unbound by walls and other decor. Director of creative services at Schumacher Tori Jones put the brand's Citrus Garden and Leopard patterns to work in this intimate table for four.

“Because there was so much going on with the patterns on the tablecloth and napkins, we decided to keep the flowers simple,” Jones says. “We used a potted lush maiden hair fern as the centerpiece.”