1. The Right Furniture for your Outdoor Space
If you have a spacious yard with multiple zones in which to put furniture, you may want to set up one zone for dining and another for lounging. But if you have room for only one or the other, consider your lifestyle and the type of entertaining you do most often. For casual evenings with family and friends, set up a lounge zone with room to set down a few snacks. If you prefer gathering around a sit-down meal, invest in quality outdoor dining set with comfortable chairs.
2. Patio Umbrella
Sitting in the blazing sun is not fun — so unless your outdoor space has a roof, pergola or other built-in shade structure, you’ll want to bring in something extra for daytime get-togethers. Freestanding umbrellas are more flexible than the table-mounted type, allowing you to bring the shade exactly where it’s needed. Look for one that is big enough to cover the majority of the dining or lounging area of your space.
3. Fan
Flies and mosquitoes tend to stay away from moving air, so if these pesky critters are a problem in your backyard, a fan can help keep them at bay during gatherings. Install a ceiling-mounted model, or plug in a standing or tabletop outdoor version.
4. Outdoor Speakers
Aside from lighting, nothing creates ambiance quicker than music. Whether you opt for a simple portable wireless speaker or hire a professional to install a complete audio system, having the ability to play music in the backyard is key for all kinds of outdoor entertainment.
5. Serving Trays
Carry out dishes, drinks and more with a serving tray, or two or three, that you keep handy. Choose a tray with handles for easy carrying and a lip to prevent your items from sliding off the edge.
6. Drink Tub or Cooler
Stocking a beverage tub or cooler with drinks on ice in your party area, and minimize multiple trips to the fridge. When serving food, consider keeping a separate food cooler on hand to stash condiments, like mayo that needs chilling and perishable meats waiting to be tossed on the grill.
7. Outdoor Tableware
Keep a set of durable outdoor-worthy tableware on hand — these unbreakable dishes and cups can also be useful for picnics and camping trips. Enamelware or wood is a sturdy and kid-friendly alternative to plastic.
7. Tablecloth
Being outdoors can take a toll on your patio furniture. Keeping the surface of your outdoor table clean all the time is tough, wipe it down and then cover it with a pretty tablecloth. Outdoor tablecloths are ideal because they tend to be water-resistant — meaning that spills roll right off — but regular tablecloths can work well too.
9. Blankets
For entertaining that begins or stretches into the evening, having a few cozy blankets on hand is a nice touch your guests will appreciate. Drape a few over your outdoor chairs so anyone who gets chilly can pull one over a lap or shoulders.
For daytime parties — consider setting out a basket of sunscreen and bug repellant for guests too.
10. Mood Lighting
What could be more inviting than a patio at dusk made cozy by a soft glow? Make your outdoor space shine at night with candles that won’t get blown out in the wind (for example, hurricanes), string lights or both. If local regulations prohibit the use of fire, you can still create a lot of ambiance with battery-powered candles.
THE 905 REAL ESTATE GUYS
info@905realestateguys.com
Sean Kavanagh 905.220.9198
Leo Manchisi 905.334.9650