Have a special occasion to celebrate with the girls this summer like a wedding shower, bridal luncheon, or milestone birthday? Take advantage of the warmer weather and take the party outdoors with a colorful, backyard garden soirée!

Keep the planning process easy and start by seeking out stylish floral partyware to inspire your theme, then find favors, drinks & decor that compliment the look. There are lots of great partyware patterns and color palettes available right now that are perfect for summer! Here are a few of my personal favorites:

Pictured above: 1. Floral Fashion dinner plates, napkins, & beverage napkins + solid orange utensils; 2. Decorative Floral dinner plates, dessert plates, lunch napkins, and beverage napkins; 3.  Tonkin plates, dessert plates, and beverage napkins + solid pistachio utensils.

Add some festive { & affordable} flair to your garden party with paper lanterns, paper daisies, tissue poms, and hand fans...

Pictured above: Sorbet and Little Girl Pom Kits from the Etsy shop PomLove, and Paper Daisies and Paper Lanterns from Luna Bazaar.

Drinks are another great place to introduce color. I'm loving this "shot glass smoothie" idea {via Brides.com} – especially for hot summer days! Serve up flavors that match your party palette - such as berry, mango, and lime – as a refreshing before-meal snack or healthy dessert alternative.

When it comes to cocktails, opt for something simple and fruity, like this Pink Martini featuring gin, guava nectar & orange juice.

{smoothie photo courtesy of Great Performances}

Last but not least, send guests home with a floral-inspired party favor. (These finds are so cute they'll pull double-duty as party decor at the event!)

Pictured above: Blooming Favor Boxes by Etsy shop So Inviting! in shades of Pink and Yellow/Orange, and Felt Favor Bags and Couture Wedding Dress Cookies with floral sashes – both from Beaucoup.