Outdoor Functions

Outdoor functions have become increasingly trendy in the UK - whether corporate product launches, weddings, graduation parties or simply a bash to celebrate the onset of summer.

Venues range from the carefully cultivated grounds of medieval castles to the quiet serenity of a nearby beach. And with the assistance of a top flight catering hire company, all additional accessories can be well taken care of.

A well manicured private garden will fit the bill
If dedicated venue hire is simply out of the question due to financial constraints, then a well manicured private garden will fit the bill. Supplement the existing floral exhibition by hiring china crockery in colours to match your theme, genuine silverware, elegant crystal flute glasses and stylish linen tablecloths.

Adorn the garden with furniture - cane, rattan or caste iron tables and chairs - all of which can be hired together with the necessary catering equipment. Include oversized floral centrepieces to capture the whimsy of a garden in spring and, for splashes of bright colour, add glass bowls filled with lemons or limes, or smaller bowls with a few handfuls of cranberries, raspberries or blueberries.

If the outdoor merrymaking is expected to extend into the twilight zone, string the surrounding foliage with twinkle lights, emulating the dazzle and dart of glow worms at dusk. Add festoons made out of flowers, leaves and ribbons to get the full effect of a function al fresco. Surround the entire outdoor party area with candlelit lamps or, for the fiscally frugal, brown paper bags filled with an inch or two of sand and a tea light candle nestled inside to add a lovely soft glow of romance to the setting.

Fresh and flamboyant summer fare
The fare should reflect the freshness and flamboyance of the warmer months of the year with light, seasonal ingredients. Serve a chilled gazpacho or vichyssoise as a temperate starter, followed by a savoury tart or quiche bumped up with a selection of tasty and colourful salad side dishes.

Another firm favourite for the outdoor function is a selection of antipasto, including colourful peppers, exotic smoked aubergine, olives, dolmades, hand-crafted mozzarella, Stilton and Roquefort as well Italian salami, prosciutto and smoked ham. End it all off with a lemon sorbet to clear the palette.

Traditional summer tipple should be the order of the day, with Champagne cocktails competing with Bourbon-based mint juleps, G&T's and Pimms. Remember to offer a non-alcoholic alternative - iced tea could be the perfect accompaniment.

For a more full-bodied offering, the outdoor barbecue is another tried and tested hit. If the numbers suffice, go the ‘whole hog' with a spit - any reputable catering company will take care of the finer details. Supplement the lashings of meat with pale ale or a jug of Guinness.


Catering equipment...sparkling glasses...immaculate cutlery...stunning china... Whether you're an event organiser or hosting a private occasion, choose Allens Hire for all your London catering equipment hire and furniture rental needs.