Amazing Ideas for Hosting THE Unforgettable Party of the Summer

Everyone loves a good selfie, so why not set up your very own photo booth? Even if you’re tight on space, Showtime Photo Booth can provide some pretty neat designs to suit your event, from its compact pod to the magic mirror where you can see your reflection in real time for selfie perfection. There’s something to cater for every occasion – we had Showtime appear at Culture Trip’s very own summer party and our social team especially loved the GIF photo booth, naturally! Pretty much everything is customisable and the pics can be shared directly from the booth to social media – create your own hashtag and you’re on your way to creating a memorable event that everyone can get involved in. Also check out its sister company Momentous Photo Booth for London booths.

Who wouldn’t want bubbles on tap served from a cute vintage van? Dynamic duo Ben and Joe set up the company Bubble Bros back in 2015, converting a little Piaggio Ape into a cute sparkling wine bar that’s served its refreshing fizz all over the UK, including the likes of Glastonbury and Latitude festivals, as well as countless weddings and private parties. For a totally Instagrammable party that everyone will be talking about for months, this is worth splashing the cash for. Check out its cool ‘Bubble Bike’ – a converted vintage bike and sidecar that’s for hire too.

Whether it’s on-trend flamingos or bright botanicals, turn your party pad into something truly special with decorations from Ginger Ray. There’s a whole range of contemporary themed designs that can transform your venue into something truly amazing whether it’s a birthday bash or a sophisticated wedding reception – take a look at the full collection here.

Bored of traditional-style catering? Do things a little differently and hire a street food van or two for the day to create your own mini festival vibe. From tasty pizzas from the likes of the lovely Pizza Pigs team in their converted Land Rover Defender to hearty and wholesome Buddha Bowls from one of our personal favourites Wholefood Heaven, these foodie trucks are giving meals on wheels a whole different meaning. Tuck in.

If it’s not quite in the budget to splash out on catering, why not put on your own pizzas instead? You could invest in the cute and compact Uuni Pizza Oven (£199, John Lewis), which will last you well beyond the party, and have everyone create their own toppings and cook them themselves? Definitely a win-win.

If you’re having an outdoors affair, make sure your furniture is up to scratch. Think outside the box and invest in on-trend rattan designs like this cool swing chair from Oliver Bonas – hang it in a tree alongside some festoon lighting and voila!

Sometimes there’s nothing better than gathering around a fire, whether it’s to toast marshmallows or to have a sing-song into the early hours of the morning. This brazier from Cox & Cox is perfect if you’re setting up a mini campsite in your back garden or for keeping guests toasty and warm as the evening chill sets in.

Take the living room outside and design the ultimate relaxation zone with comfy loungers and plenty of cushions and throws. Shade your guests from the summer sun with a delicate veil of netted fabric rather than the traditional parasol for a pretty yet sophisticated look.

For more summer party ideas and inspiration, click here.