5 Tips for Hosting a Stress-Free Garden Party in Cornwall

There is nothing quite like a Cornish summer gathering. Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday, organizing a family reunion, or planning a company team day, the setting is usually perfect. But the stress of feeding 30, 50, or 100 people? That can quickly ruin the fun.

At Salt Wind Catering, we believe the host should be enjoying a drink, not stuck in the kitchen.

Here are our top 5 tips for catering your next event in Cornwall without the hassle—perfect for garden parties, anniversaries, and casual get-togethers.

1. Go for "Social Dining" (The Hog Roast)

Forget formal seating plans. The best parties are where guests can mingle, move around, and eat when they’re hungry. A Hog Roast or BBQ is the ultimate icebreaker.

• Why it works: It provides a spectacular focal point and smells incredible.

• The Benefit: We bring the equipment, cook the meat to perfection (slow-roasted for hours), and serve it with fresh rolls and apple sauce. It’s hearty, affordable, and feeds a crowd effortlessly.

2. Cater for Every Diet (Without Cooking 5 Meals)

In every group, there’s a vegetarian, a gluten-free guest, and a picky eater. Trying to cook for everyone yourself is a nightmare.

• The Solution: A Mixed Buffet Spread.

• We can provide a spread that includes meat platters, fresh local salads, and dedicated vegan/gluten-free options. This ensures no one goes hungry, and you don’t have to worry about cross-contamination.

3. Add a "Wow" Factor for Dessert

You’ve done the savory; now you need something fun. Instead of slicing cake for an hour, why not hire a Chocolate Fountain?

• Why guests love it: It’s interactive and looks amazing.

• Our Service: We offer self-managed hire across Cornwall. We deliver it, set it up with premium Belgian chocolate, and collect it dirty—so you don’t even have to clean up!

4. Hosting at a Holiday Home?

If you are visiting Cornwall for a family reunion in a large holiday rental, the last thing you want to do is spend your holiday in the supermarket.

• The Hack: Order a Holiday Home Food Box.

• We can deliver Welcome Hampers, breakfast kits, or even "Ready to Heat" meals like Lasagna or Fisherman's Pie directly to your rental in St Ives, Newquay, or Padstow.

5. Keep It Simple: Delivery vs. Staffed

Decide what kind of vibe you want.

• Relaxed: Choose our "Drop-off Service." We deliver the food in ready-to-serve boxes or platters, and leave you to it.

• Hosted: Choose our "Staffed Service." Our team stays to carve the meat, replenish the buffet, and clear away the plates so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Ready to plan your party? Whether it's a 40th birthday, a Golden Anniversary, or just a summer BBQ, we have a menu to fit. Click here to Request a Quote and let’s get the party started!