The Guide | How to Throw a Kids' Summer Party

While her indoor tablescapes are always spectacular, Léa Sfeir knows exactly how to add some magic to a simple children's picnic too. Tried and trusted tricks include bringing jugs of flowers onto the picnic blanket for extra charm and packing a cute tent to add excitement and provide an escape from the sun's rays (demonstrated perfectly by Léa’s son Adam and niece Paloma). Trays and chopping boards are great for balancing drinks on, and if you really want to make sure there are more thrills than spills, give the children juice cartons with paper straws instead of cups. 

There’s nothing like a fancy-dress theme to add another layer of fun to a party. When children can spill out into the garden there’s so much more room for twirling and those costumes always look fabulous glinting in the sunlight. Our top tip is to have a few spare costumes and accessories on stand-by for children who might have forgotten theirs. You could even have a rail of clothes for kids to dip in and out of.

If you're looking for an icebreaker for children who might be a little shy or a way to keep younger children entertained, a toy corner is a great idea. A basket of toys and some fun ride-on cars will keep little ones distracted while older siblings enjoy socialising and running around. A bubble machine is also a lovely way to create a sense of wonder in the garden without any worries about slippery floors.

Whether the invitation is formal or casual we have something for all your little flowers. Babies will look adorable in summer romper suits, while older children will steal the show in charming, smocked dresses and tailored linen suits for summer-party best or gorgeous rainbow hues and cool cotton separates for more casual events. If the forecast says hot, don't forget to add a hat to their ensemble and for tweens and teens, a little bag with room for some sunscreen is always a good idea.