It is that time of year again where we like to host our guests in our backyards or on our decks, enjoying the longer summer evenings and warmer temperatures. Whether you are hosting a large event or just having a few friends over for a last minute get together there are a few things to consider to make sure it goes off without a hitch.

Having the space ready really doesn’t take too much effort. Clean the BBQ after each use with a wire scrub brush so you are already set for the next date and make sure all the outdoor furniture is clean at the beginning of the season and it should need very little attention throughout the summer months.

String lights create such a lovely atmosphere. Image: Summer Classics

One of my favourite things for outdoor entertaining is lighting. As the sun goes down, it is so nice to be able to turn on fairy lights or light some lanterns. Restoration Hardware has some great string lights. Check them out here. https://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod1677161&categoryId=search I also like a couple of lanterns as regular candles don’t usually work due to wind outside here in Victoria, so having them in a lantern is not only pretty but also functional.

Favourite string lights. Image: Pottery Barn

Of course you can always add on to this by having an outdoor fireplace or a heat lamp for when it gets chilly, but a basket of shawls or blankets will also help extend the evening outdoors as the temperature goes down with the sun.

An outdoor firepit create great ambience and warmth for some of the cooler evenings. Image: Pottery Barn

How about dressing the table? With outdoor entertaining, as with indoor entertaining, you want to decide on what vibe you are wanting to create. Are you wanting a casual laid back feel or are you wanting something a bit more upscale? If it is a casual vibe you are going for, try putting the cutlery in a terracotta flower pot along with the napkins in the centre of the table so each guest can take their own once the food has been prepared. A mason jar with Gerber daisies or lavender will add to the casual atmosphere. There is a myriad of great plastic tableware out these days. I’ve even seen some great tableware at Superstore and Costco and Winners. Pottery Barn has some beautiful outdoor entertaining tableware. Adding these to your tabletop is sure to help set a more casual sentiment.

A great centre piece to create a casual feeling. Image: Remodel and Ola Casa

If you are wanting to elevate things for the backyard meal how about using your best linens and china. It is a great way to really add elegance to the outdoor entertaining. The juxtaposition between the elegance of the linens and the rustic feel of the outdoors is just beautiful. Just think Martha Stewart! I’ve even brought my dining table outside before and set it with a white table cloth and cloth napkins. Add Hydrangeas or roses as the flower on the table and you are set. Everyone will be impressed!

Adding a white table cloth and napkins will really elevate your dining space Image: Wallace Cotton

When it comes to the food it will also play into your scheme. Starting with the drinks you serve as guests arrive. A mojito in a tumbler or a berry floating in sparkling wine in a champagne flute? You can go all out casual with BBQ burgers or in between with a nice marinated chicken or seafood on skewers accompanied by a couple of fresh salads. There are so many amazing BBQ recipes around so have fun and be experimental.

Outdoor dining with all about good food and friends. Image: Extra space

So have some fun creating a few get togethers over the summer. Be creative and then sit back and enjoy your company and of course, I would love to hear how you make your outdoor dining space your own.