9 Memorable Summer Garden Party Ideas at Gilmerton House
Summer is arguably the most glorious season at Gilmerton House. With its long days stretching into long evenings, alfresco dining, and the sweet scent of flowers in the air, there’s no better time to host an unforgettable Summer party or celebration at Gilmerton House. Whether you are basking in the golden hour glow or enjoying impeccable company with the scent of a smoky barbeque, Gilmerton House offers the perfect setting for a lavish summer party.
To help you plan a truly glamorous event, we’ve compiled 9 exquisite summer party ideas that blend opulence with whimsical, ensuring your celebration is nothing short of spectacular.
1. Enjoy a Sumptuous Argentian-esque BBQ Feast
Nothing says summer quite like a sizzling BBQ. Upgrade your alfresco dining experience on the terrace outside The Laundry House, with top-tier grilled delicacies, from succulent seafood to expertly seasoned meats, just like we did last Summer. Think meat covered in hot sauces cooked over an asado grill firepit on the terrace in the garden, paired with caipirinhas and mojitos, followed by Chilean & Argentinian fine wines to accompany the asado-style meats. A roaming Salsa or Cumbia band will add to the carnival-like atmosphere by playing Latino tunes as guests eat and drink the night away. Those who are feeling brave can take to the dance floor for a tango or samba until the early hours.
2. Set Up a Luxurious Scottish Picnic Experience on the Lawn
A feast for the senses, with carefully curated blooms for a picturesque evening on the lawn, a classic luxury picnic by incorporating lavish seating covered in sheepskin rugs, pretty table cloths and gourmet picnic baskets, and chilled rosé. We will lay out plush cushions and tartan rugs on Gilmerton House’s freshly mown lawn for you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in the most elegant way.
3. Arrange a Sunset Croquet Match followed by an Alfresco Movie Night
For a truly unique experience, consider hosting a croquet party on the lawn at Gilmerton. Guests can enjoy an exhilarating match, sipping champagne on the lawn, and revel in the elegance of this classic summer sport. Once the winner is celebrated, sit back in a striped armchair with a newspaper cone of fish and chips to watch a film on a large pop up Screen….
4. Organize a Festival-Inspired Celebration
Capture the essence of summer festivals with vibrant decor, live music, and gourmet food stations. Set up a cocktail bar, serve refreshing sorbets, and create cozy lounge areas with festoon lighting for a relaxed yet stylish ambiance. Nothing brings people of all ages together quite like a festival, so why not give Glastonbury a run for its money by hosting your own mini festival. Entertainment can be whatever you want it to be – local bands or big name acts, poetry slam dunkers or stand-up comedians, friends on the decks or old school DJs… with a festival style party, there really is something for everyone.
Elevate the usual festival food, with exquisite street food by Edinburgh Catering Company, cocktail bars and homemade pizzas. And when the festival goers start flagging, for those not staying in the house, call it a night with pre-erected glamping bell tents and tipis.
5. Go Bold with a Circus-Themed Extravaganza
For a fun and whimsical take on a summer celebration, consider a circus-themed party. Think vibrant tents, acrobatic performances, gourmet carnival treats, and an atmosphere of pure enchantment. Traditional circus performers such as jugglers, stilt walkers and acrobats are sure to go down a treat. When it comes to food, you can’t go wrong with hot dogs, burgers, popcorn and candy floss to feed hungry mouths.
6. How to throw a Summer bash worthy of Rutshire or should we say ‘Eastlothian-shire’
If you found yourself watching Jilly Cooper’s TV show Rivals and pining after all the 80’s revelry, there’s only one thing for it: have a Rivals themed Summer party. It makes perfect sense: the 80’s was the Summer of the decades. No one was too old or too young, copious champagne flowed and 80s music was amazing! Think vol-au-vents, devilled eggs, cocktail sausages on sticks and little lettuce boats of prawn cocktail. Encourage your guests to dress up in the Rivals spirit: big shoulder pads, statement jewellery, voluminous hair and lots of bows for the ladies and brooches. For the men, think pin striped or checked suits and braces. Grass tennis or in Gilmerton’s case, badminton and croquet followed by snooker over copious glasses of whisky.
7.Plan a Masquerade Garden Party
Add a touch of mystery and elegance by hosting a masquerade party in Gilmerton House’s stunning gardens. Encourage guests to don elaborate masks and attire, or black tie, while sipping champagne under the summer sky. Dress the Laundry House, complete with crystal glassware, antique lanterns, leather chesterfield sofas to create a regal feel fine dining, and a curated wine selection. Let guests revel in the opulence of the occasion.
8. Throw a Roaring 1920s Soirée
Transport your guests back in time with a Gatsby-style 1920s celebration. Think champagne towers, pearl necklaces, flapper dresses, and feather accessories. A jazz band and art deco-inspired decor will set the scene for a dazzling evening. Chin chin old boy.
Image credit: Marc Millar Photography
9. Plan a Murder Mystery Evening or Traitors Event
Engage your guests with an intriguing murder mystery party set in Gilmerton House’s stately interiors or its picturesque grounds. Choose a thrilling storyline and let guests embrace their inner detectives for a night of mystery and excitement.
At Gilmerton House, every summer celebration is crafted to perfection. Whether you dream of an intimate gathering or a grand event, let our stunning venue and expert planning services turn your vision into reality. Here’s to gatherings surrounded by good company, great food, and the timeless beauty of Gilmerton House.