With the warmer weather approaching, we have got lots to look forward to, especially with the rules surrounding social distancing beginning to change. With the new rule of 6 coming into place, we want to prepare our outdoor space for fun, food and friends! Now more than ever before we are appreciating every moment we get to spend with loved ones, so why not make the most of entertaining by optimising your garden area and putting on the best low-key party to date. Here are our top tips for making the most of entertaining outside, wowing your guests with beautiful outdoor furniture, easy food and a relaxing ambience.
-Create an outside dining room
Being able to sit properly to eat outside in the warm weather is a bonus when entertaining friends, everyone can be together properly for a catch up and can kick back with a drink to enjoy the sun. There are some things to consider when setting up a dining space in your garden, think about the placement of table and chairs, is there a corner space that you’ve been desperate to make use of? Knowing where the sun and shade spots are in your garden are also good to think about, having an option to add shade to your dining set up can cater for everyone so maybe think about adding a canopy or umbrella. Also, having a bench on standby can be useful for more of a leisure setting after eating.
Here are some of the beautiful outdoor dining pieces Olivia’s has to offer.
1.6 seater dining set by Maze Rattan 2. Brafta coffee table by Skyline 3. Brafta right seat by Skyline 4. Ethos foot stool by Maze Rattan 5. Milano armchair by skyline
Cali Parasol by Skyline
-Keep the food menu simple
If you’re not up for providing a three-course meal for your guests, why not take the simple route and go for light bites, or classic BBQ grub, with more room to focus on the beverages! When entertaining, you want to feel relaxed not stressed. If you are a passionate cook and want to go all out, consider keeping the menu simple, having enough room at the table to mingle. Here are some recipes for easy, outdoor eating.
-Set the ambience with lighting
Good lighting can really transform the atmosphere in a space, evoking a feeling of comfort and nostalgia. Create the perfect ambience with soft, warm toned lighting. If you haven’t got access to outdoor sockets, alternatives can be LED fairy lights or candles.
1. Pillar candle by Libra 2. Glass hurricane by Liang & Eimil 3. Lunar candle holder by Liang & Eimil
-Arrange a relaxed seating area
Having a place to retreat to once everyone is done eating is a lovely way of winding down the evening, comfy cushioning and an intimate area to sit will bring in the good vibes and make it a day to reflect on. With all of the time spent apart from loved ones since the pandemic began, it is important to feel close again and in line with the upcoming relaxing of restrictions, this is the perfect way to transition into connecting again.
1.Apollo dining chair by Maze Rattan 2. Ona armchair by Skyline 3. Windsor day bed by skyline 4. Round nest chair by Maze Rattan 5. Journey armchair by Skyline
-Add the finishing touches
For extra comfort and for when the air gets a little cooler, incorporate cosy furnishings like cushions and throws!
1. Monsoon cushion by Libra 2. Kyto cushion by Andrew Martin 3. Lari throw by Gallery Direct 4. Nazca cushion by Gallery Direct
