Prep Your Outdoor Space for Entertaining

Feyi Bello / Friday April 3, 2015

 

Rocha Collection at Crate and Barrel
Rocha Collection at Crate and Barrel

Warmer days and nights mean more time to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re an apartment dweller or home owner, you can turn any amount of outdoor space into a personalized haven. The basic components of a well crafted outdoor space are lighting, seating, eating, and decor. Depending on the square footage and ground cover you’re working with, you can use all of these components or just a couple to create an elegant outdoor space for two or a party of twenty.

Lighting

 

Hampton Bay Mosaic Multi-Colored Outdoor LED Solar Gazing Globe Set, $39.97 at The Home Depot
Hampton Bay Mosaic Multi-Colored Outdoor LED Solar Gazing Globe Set, $39.97 at The Home Depot

Solar powered lighting is a great way to go with any outdoor space because you don’t need electrical outlets and it’s the most eco-friendly option. These Solar Mosaic Globe Lights by Hampton Bay are great for grassy backyards.

 

Vintage Silver Art Glass Large Table Top Solar LED Lantern, $19.97 at The Home Depot
Vintage Silver Art Glass Large Table Top Solar LED Lantern, $19.97 at The Home Depot

These tarnished Silver Glass Solar Lanterns give off a soft glow after soaking-up energy from the sun all day. The best part about these lanterns is they work great on a table and are a perfect option for hanging from a tree or overhang.

 

Carved Wood String Lights, $16.99 at World Market
Carved Wood String Lights, $16.99 at World Market

Ever popular string lights get an upgrade with this gorgeous Carved Wood set from World Market. The unique carving creates beautiful patterns of light and different shapes add interest to any space.

 

Seating

 

Blue Beer Garden Dining Table, $229.99 and Benches, $139.99 each at World Market
Blue Beer Garden Dining Table, $229.99 and Benches, $139.99 each at World Market

If you have an entire backyard or large patio space, go big with a picnic table and benches like this awesome Blue Beer Garden Dining Table and Benches set from World Market. Durable wood construction and cute colored steel legs make this set patio perfect, but the best part? Each piece folds flat for easy winter storage.

 

All-Weather Wicker Formentera Egg Outdoor Chair, $279.99 at World Market
All-Weather Wicker Formentera Egg Outdoor Chair, $279.99 at World Market

Add cozy side seating with this All Weather Wicker Formentera Egg Chair and personalize it with fun patterned cushions and pillows.

 

Outsunny 4 Piece Deluxe Outdoor Rattan Wicker Patio Set, $899.50 at Amazon
Outsunny 4 Piece Deluxe Outdoor Rattan Wicker Patio Set, $899.50 at Amazon

Blend comfy seating and dining with this Rattan Wicker Patio Set that has a wood-like look and coffee table storage for snacks, magazines, or toys for the kids.

 

Eating

 

Threshold Bryant Faux Wood Patio Bar Cart, $129 at Target
Threshold Bryant Faux Wood Patio Bar Cart, $129 at Target

Possibly the most important aspect of your outdoor entertaining space is the ability to eat and drink comfortably. If you love mixing drinks for friends, an outdoor bar cart is the way to go. This functional Threshold Bryant Faux Wood Patio Bar Cart from Target has wheels for mobility and the top tray lifts out for easy serving.

 

10 Piece Bamboo, Glass and Ceramic Serving Set, $23.95 by Anchor Hocking
10 Piece Bamboo, Glass and Ceramic Serving Set, $23.95 by Anchor Hocking

The biggest issue with outdoor eating is usually bugs. Nobody wants a fly in their cheese or salad! This Anchor Hocking Serving Set keeps snacks safe from critters with a glass bowl covering and houses everything from chips and dip to cheeses and charcuterie.

 

Pizzeria Pronto Outdoor Pizza Oven, $299.95 at Williams-Sonoma
Pizzeria Pronto Outdoor Pizza Oven, $299.95 at Williams-Sonoma

Whether you’ve got plenty of space for a grill or trying to entertain in a tiny patio, impress guests with this Pizzeria Pronto Outdoor Pizza Oven. It sits on any stable surface and emits a delectable aroma without the smoke from a grill.

 

Decor

 

Test your pattern pairing skills with the Mix and Match feature on WorldMarket.com.
Test your pattern pairing skills with the Mix and Match feature on WorldMarket.com.

The colors, fabrics, and accent pieces you choose really bring your outdoor space together. Mix prints that feature the same color palette on chairs and benches for that personal touch.

 

Quill Peacock 5'x8' Rug, $329.95 at Pier 1
Quill Peacock 5’x8′ Rug, $329.95 at Pier 1

A colorful outdoor rug works wonders on grass, stone, or concrete ground. This Quill Peacock Rug from Pier 1 has oceanic hues to inspire your summer. You can even clean it just by rinsing it with a garden hose and hanging dry.

 

Wooden Yard Dice Game, $59.95 at Crate and Barrel
Wooden Yard Dice Game, $59.95 at Crate and Barrel

Extra entertainment never hurts, especially this fun Wooden Yard Dice Game that doubles as decor when set out on your patio!

 

Perfect Patio Setting, Krista A. Jones Photography
Perfect Patio Setting, Krista A. Jones Photography

Now you’re done! Time to pop the champagne and enjoy your outdoor haven. Putting all of these elements together will reflect your personal style and keep guests coming back all season long!