Summer Entertaining Tips & Outdoor Furniture Round Up

Summer is officially in full swing, bringing plenty of opportunities for outdoor entertaining so I thought I'd share some tips for furnishing your outdoor spaces. Last year we worked with a client to select new outdoor pieces that worked with existing pieces they already had and also complimented the design of their new home.

There are a lot of different factors to consider when designing an outdoor space but here are some of my tips when considering outdoor furniture.

1. How do you really entertain outdoors. When considering your outdoor entertainment needs, it is essential to think about the type of gatherings you typically host. Are you throwing large parties that require ample individual seating or do you prefer more intimate gatherings where cozy seating arrangements work better? If you frequently rearrange your outdoor setup to accommodate different activities you'll also want to consider the weight of the furniture. Understanding these aspects will help you select furniture that not only fits your space but also enhances your entertaining style.

   
   

   

   
   

2. Consider your surroundings and durability of fabric and finishes. It is crucial to take into account the specific environment in which your outdoor furniture will be in. For instance, if your space has full sun for most of the day, you will want to choose fabrics and finishes that are resistant to fading and wear. Additionally, if your outdoor area is surrounded by trees this can introduce challenges such as falling leaves, tree sap, or pollen that could accumulate on your furniture, necessitating easy-to-clean materials. By carefully evaluating your surroundings, you can select durable pieces that will withstand the test of time and maintain their aesthetic appeal.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Think about your dining preferences. Do you actually dine at a dedicated outdoor dining table, or if you find yourself leaning towards buffet-style meals where surfaces are needed for food stations and casual dining. If you don't have a built-in outdoor kitchen or bar area, consider the need for consoles, bar carts, end tables or multi-purpose accent furniture that can support how you host.

   
   

   

   
   

4. Factor in additional lighting needs. Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating an inviting outdoor atmosphere, especially as the sun goes down. Consider whether your current setup requires new permanent lighting solutions, such as pathway or staircase lighting. Alternatively, you might explore lighting options that can enhance the ambiance, such as string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered garden lights. These elements not only serve a functional purpose but also add a warm, inviting glow to your outdoor space.

   
   

   

If you haven't updated your outdoor furniture yet, there's still time! There are a lot of great options at a wide range of price points so take a look at this furniture round up of items I love for outdoor spaces. Overwhelmed with options or need help planning your space? I'd love to chat, click here for more details.

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Warmly,

Carrie