Trends in Outdoor Summer Entertaining

Outdoor summer entertaining has evolved beyond a simple backyard barbecue, as today’s gatherings are more upscaled and more comfortable than ever. From big culinary experiences, patio and deck renovations and garden spaces these elevations to your outdoor spaces can improve the quality of your summer entertainment. As we inch closer to summer here are a few trends you can do to up your backyard barbecue.

Freshen the Space
One thing to work on before starting any of the trends is to first clean up your backyard space, as winter may have caused some damages in some areas you want to start sprucing up the space before you start inviting people over. With Spring you want to work on any gardens are flower beds that need to be upkept, any pools or patio spaces need to be cleaned and make sure you features like fountains, sprinklers or other water features are working. Cleaning and maintenance should be your first step.

Elevated Ambiance
Dining outside can be refreshing with the nice views, gently breeze and atmosphere you can find in other outdoor restaurants but no one has Napa Valley or the coast as their backyard but what if you can get a similar feeling. Ambiance isn’t just about the view but how you present you given space, stuff like the glassware you provide or how you set the table with napkins and centerpieces and really make the difference in your backyard. Look into also getting long communal tables, warm and colorful tablecloths and candles to set the mode. The goal is to create a relaxing space that also gives the same atmosphere as if you were dining out on restaurant patios.

Outdoor Kitchens and Bars
Grills are no longer the only thing in the backyards now as homes start including more of an outdoor kitchen set up with cook tops on patios, pizza ovens, mini fridges and prep counters are becoming more of the normal when people are remodeling their back yard. Rather than just having the grill you are now accompanied by other kitchen appliances that creates such a welcoming place and a show for your guest. Building a small outdoor bar also create a space for your guest to mingle and make themselves at home as you cook as you create a space where it feels more of an event and gathering.

Cozy Lounge Spaces
Outdoor seating has always been a challenge in some places where the weather doesn’t always agree. Look into weatherproof furniture, oversized cushions and textured throws and lower profile coffee tables. Fire features – whether modern fire bowls or classic stone fireplaces to help extend gatherings well into the evening. String lights and lanterns add warmth and intimacy once the sun goes down.

Immersive Experiences
Many hosts elevate their occasions with customized touches that go beyond normal traditions. Popular ideas include backyard movie nights with a projector, interactive food stations like a taco bar or acoustic music or curated playlists. While simple, these touches can add to the experience and make the event feel more than just a regular get together.

Sustainable and Seasonal
Sustainability and seasonality are playing important roles in any event planning. When styling your outdoor space look into more of the seasonal sense with more farmer market notes, floral and potted herbs and or flowers and for food source local ingredients to give it that more personal yet seasonal style. Don’t be afraid of also using reusable serving ware or compostable plates and include eco-friendly details as this can also help with making clean up a lot less stressful.

Comfort is King
Comfort should no longer be an afterthought when creating an welcoming outdoor space. Shade structures, ceiling fans and even misting systems to help cool people down during the summer can be great additions to your outdoor space and create a relaxing area for guests.

Outdoor summer entertaining trends offer fresh opportunities to host celebrations that are unforgettable or gatherings that just feel distinctly your own. Whichever approach you choose you should reflect the mood you want to set as well as adding your own personal style as well. The real focus isn’t just the atmosphere but also to welcome friends and family to inviting spaces of your home.

_{Original article by Carma Stahnke of Blue Matter}