During the warmer months, we’ll take any excuse to spend time outside, and a theme helps to take these celebrations to the next level.
Try these ideas for a glamping theme to turn any back yard party into an experience for your guests. If you’re not familiar, “glamping” is a combination of glam and camping — and uses decor, style, food, and cocktails to create a party atmosphere in a camping setting. You can throw a glamping party that involves actually camping and sleeping over in your yard or just gives guests an afternoon or evening of the glamping lifestyle.
1. Set the scene with seating
For a glamping party, plastic chairs just won’t do. You need to go big with the seating. Think tents made of white fabric, accented with balloons, flowers, pennants, or twinkle lights with pillows or cushions underneath. Or decorate a pergola with white gauzy fabric and a strand of white lights. Try a long wooden table that’s low to the ground made of pallets covered in colorful tablecloths and blankets or outdoor rugs with cushions on each side. Add candles, flowers, and over-the-top decor like chandeliers.
2. Use serveware that stands out
The cups, plates, and serveware you use at a glamping party need to be more festive than a backyard barbecue but don’t have to be expensive. There are endless options for paper and plasticware. Choose colorful designs, metallics, or pieces that look ornate but are durable enough for outdoor use. Or pull a selection of ceramic bowls, plates, platters, and cake stands from your kitchen. Accent your serveware with colorful straws and napkins.
3. Mix some batched cocktails
Make it easy on yourself and your guests by preparing batched cocktails in advance. Margaritas, a rum punch, sangria, or cocktail combinations that involve champagne or rosé are big crowd-pleasers. Don’t forget to add some colorful fruit garnish and paper umbrellas. Need some help deciding? Delish has 32 batched cocktail recipes that are perfect for outdoor gatherings.
4. Don’t stress on the menu
Yes, glamping is fancier than camping but it’s up to you how much work to put into the food. You can get catering, create a giant charcuterie board, go the potluck route, or serve it up picnic-style. Presentation is key. Use your festive serveware to display the food and make it easy for guests to grab and go. For dessert, try these camping inspired recipes for s’mores, cobblers, and more from Taste of Home.
5. A fire pit is a must
It’s not glamping if you don’t have a fire. A fire pit provides a traditional camping feel and gives your guests a space to gather together. Plus, it’s the perfect place to roast marshmallows for dessert.
Don’t have a back yard?
Fortunately, EventUp has venues across the globe that have outdoor space to help you throw the glamping party of your dreams. Start searching for the perfect place at EventUp.com.
