How to Host Your First Garden Party (Without Breaking the Bank)

So you've just bought your first outdoor oven — congrats! Now it’s time to put it to work and gather your favourite people for your first garden party. But where do you start? Here’s how to create an unforgettable get-together that feels high-end, even on a budget.

1. Keep the Guest List Intimate

Small groups make for easier prep, more meaningful conversations, and lower food costs. Aim for 6–8 people — just enough to keep the energy up without overwhelming your space (or your budget).

2. Set the Mood with Simple Decor

String up warm white fairy lights or solar lanterns — they’re cheap, cheerful, and instantly add atmosphere. Use what you have: jam jars as tealight holders, garden foliage in old bottles, and your best throws over outdoor chairs.

3. One Oven, One Crowd-Pleaser

Choose one centrepiece dish for your outdoor oven — like DIY pizzas or roasted veggie flatbreads. Let guests build their own for added fun. Bulk-buy dough bases or make your own; toppings can be as basic or adventurous as you like.

4. Drinks Station, Not Bar Duty

Set up a self-serve drinks area — a few bottles of wine, a pitcher of homemade lemonade, and maybe a garden-inspired cocktail. Let guests help themselves so you’re not playing bartender all evening.

5. Playlist = Instant Vibe

Curate a laid-back garden playlist ahead of time. Keep the volume low enough to chat over, but loud enough to cover awkward silences (not that you’ll have any!).

6. Finish with Fire

If you’ve got a fire pit or your oven holds heat, end the night with marshmallows or s’mores. It’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that costs next to nothing.

Final Tip:

Don’t aim for perfection. Aim for connection. Your first garden party is all about sharing good food and better company. With an outdoor oven, you’ve already got the magic ingredient.

Want more outdoor hosting tips or recipes for your oven? Browse our blog or shop our latest ovens — your garden gatherings are just getting started.