Here's how to... create a midnight picnic dinner party

Because we'll never have guaranteed sunny climes in our country, outdoor dining is still a novelty for us Brits. And although most people don't have a magical pond or weeping willow tree in their garden, it's still possible to recreate a carefree, dreamy summer picnic style dinner party in your own garden. Regardless of whether you live in a 60's style council house or Edwardian mansion, there are simple steps anyone can take to dine outdoors in style.

But how? Celebrity events planner Steven Duggan has created parties for the Katie Piper Foundation, Adele, and Leona Lewis. Simon Cowell once said one of his celeb parties was amazing, so who better to give some tips for a spectacular summer supper? We asked him to give his tips on throwing an outdoor dining experience to impress your guests.

Bunting was great for street parties at royal celebrations last year, but it seems a bit overdone. Are there any outdoor decoration alternatives?

Loads. The idea and look of bunting is to replicate a fun, kitsch style of living and decorating. If you have a tree in your garden, hang patterned paper or fabric lanterns in clusters from the boughs. Or draped pastel coloured ribbons from fence to fence, using mixed festoon lighting to link the areas. If you're a fan of Oriental, hanging origami and strings of coloured tissue tassels look amazing at night time, giving a proper party atmosphere.

What type of meal and drinks suit an outdoor setting?

Catering companies are forever coming up with full dinner menus, but light canapés or bowl food options can work wonderfully. Thai dishes with rice or noodles go down well at parties which involve alcohol. Classic fish and chip cones are a fun option for a younger event with an array of dessert options displayed within a themed space, like a sweets table. Summer picnics and soirées have stepped up a little with tasters such as Tomato Bruschetta, Goat's Cheese & Cashew Nut & Salmon Blinis.

To help digest the cuisine I would suggest a fruity Daiquiri or an island favourite such as rum cockail Perfect Storm. An elegant Champagne punch adds a classy twist to an informal setting. 

Is asking people to sit on picnic blankets too much?

Summer event furniture must be carefully chosen as it can vary with surfaces, the purpose of the area in question (whether it be a patio area or lawn) or theme of the event. As an alternative to sitting on a blanket, which can be uncomfortable after a while and impossible for guests wearing dresses, I would suggest large feather square pillows or beanbags. These can be placed randomly or surrounding low tables with light decor and canapé-style cuisine.

It's more than likely going to be a bit blustery. Are candles practical? Or are there any other lighting ideas?

Lighting is top of the list for us. It creates mood, a chosen atmosphere and romance. Candles are great as long as you have low wind conditions and use suitable glassware to put them in. If not, you can use real wax artificial carved candles. These are very effective. Bamboo cane oil lamps are a great addition to a tiki party or midnight picnic. They are fun, authentic and can be quite bright which is great if you are planning to keep the amount of light fittings to a minimum.

What happens if it's cold and rainy?

Chilly summer evenings are quite common in the UK. There are a large range of patio heaters and directional hanging heaters which usually combat this problem, or have a stack of fleece blanket to hand out if that's not an option. It is all about positioning draped walls, larger props and overhead canopies in the correct areas. Again there are some very inventive concepts to cover spaces. If in doubt, speak to an expert. For us, it's one of the main things we consider when designing an outdoor dinner.

What about the table setting?

If you're having a picnic, you can step up laid back, small-scale organisation. Include tray service and top quality crockery and glassware, which can be placed on low infinity tables with potted plants, overhead twinkling lights and lanterns and chill out music.

Steven's most important tip? "Don't get stressed! If you really want to hold an outdoor dinner but worry about setting it up, think about getting a pro in to creating a space with an intimate, family atmosphere. We're always around if you have any questions, after all, we love what we do!" If you want some extra help, visit Steven Duggan Events for inspiration.

Will you be holding a midnight picnic this year? Let us know your plans!