Entertaining Outdoors
Setting the Scene for Exquisite Outdoor Entertaining
I am enjoying the few first warm spring evenings. That means it's time to get your exterior living spaces ready for outdoor entertaining - so we'll check in on DecorDesigner Linda Gottlieb from Decor&You one of America's leading full-service interior decorating franchises.
Gottlieb shared a few secrets for getting started and key tips to keep in mind when refreshing your home's exterior:
Provide Ample Shade - Shelter from the sun is one of the most important aspects to any outdoor party. There are many different types of stylish products that can protect party guests from the sun's rays including umbrellas canopies trellises and retractable awnings.
Add Low Maintenance Vegetation and Some Color - Try using long-lasting drought-resistant plants to minimize the use of water. Also having a variety of plants and flowers will add dimension and variety to your yard. Use flowerbeds colorful planters and cachepots to add color and contrast to all the greenery.
Accent Lighting - Keep guests safe by making sure that entry lights are working and your driveway is well lit. Small solar-powered lights along footpaths and around the entertaining area are a popular choice among homeowners. Add lights around each flowerbed or hang lights off a porch or trellis. Use gorgeous outdoor floor or table lamps to create the perfect ambiance in outdoor dining space. For adding decorative flair to decks and patios colored lanterns or Tiki torches are great for setting the mood.
Keep It Warm - Adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit will allow you to extend the outdoor entertaining season. For areas where these options are not feasible a firebox that uses a clean-burning fuel such as ethanol can be a smart sleek alternative. Add luxurious throws to keep your visitors extra comfy as they circle around your fire.
Furnish It - Look for patterns like chevron stripes and ikat. An outdoor area complete with weatherproof lounge furniture a dining table and chairs is a great way to decorate for function and also allows a tranquil space for guests to relax. Add fabulous outdoor pillows artwork rugs and colorful tableware and placemats to complete your look.
Gottlieb shared a few secrets for getting started and key tips to keep in mind when refreshing your home's exterior:
Provide Ample Shade - Shelter from the sun is one of the most important aspects to any outdoor party. There are many different types of stylish products that can protect party guests from the sun's rays including umbrellas canopies trellises and retractable awnings.
Add Low Maintenance Vegetation and Some Color - Try using long-lasting drought-resistant plants to minimize the use of water. Also having a variety of plants and flowers will add dimension and variety to your yard. Use flowerbeds colorful planters and cachepots to add color and contrast to all the greenery.
Accent Lighting - Keep guests safe by making sure that entry lights are working and your driveway is well lit. Small solar-powered lights along footpaths and around the entertaining area are a popular choice among homeowners. Add lights around each flowerbed or hang lights off a porch or trellis. Use gorgeous outdoor floor or table lamps to create the perfect ambiance in outdoor dining space. For adding decorative flair to decks and patios colored lanterns or Tiki torches are great for setting the mood.
Keep It Warm - Adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit will allow you to extend the outdoor entertaining season. For areas where these options are not feasible a firebox that uses a clean-burning fuel such as ethanol can be a smart sleek alternative. Add luxurious throws to keep your visitors extra comfy as they circle around your fire.
Furnish It - Look for patterns like chevron stripes and ikat. An outdoor area complete with weatherproof lounge furniture a dining table and chairs is a great way to decorate for function and also allows a tranquil space for guests to relax. Add fabulous outdoor pillows artwork rugs and colorful tableware and placemats to complete your look.
