Elevate Your Outdoor Entertaining Space

Written, styled and photographed by Lynn Langford

Must-have essentials to create al fresco magic.

Hey there, Farmhouse Friends!

Do you love to entertain outdoors? Outdoor entertaining has become more popular than ever, and with the backdrop of nature, it offers us a chance for relaxation and time well spent with our family and friends. Whether you are planning a cozy gathering or a lavish party, setting the stage for outdoor entertainment requires thoughtful consideration to make the most of your space. For me, both aesthetics and functionality are important, so here is what I consider when preparing my outdoor spaces:

Comfortable Seating: Start with the foundation of your outdoor space—comfortable seating. Opt for durable yet stylish furniture that complements your overall decor scheme. From weather-resistant sofas and chairs to hammocks and loungers, prioritize comfort without compromising on visual appeal.
Ambient Lighting: Create an inviting atmosphere with strategic lighting. Incorporate string lights, lanterns, and pathway lighting to enhance visibility and ambiance as the sun sets. Consider solar-powered options for eco-friendly illumination that blends seamlessly into your outdoor setting.
Dining Essentials: If you have room, equip your outdoor space with a dining table and chairs or benches made with weatherproof materials. Having an eating area provides a central gathering point for meals with family and friends. Complete the setup with durable tableware, including outdoor-safe dishes, glasses, and utensils. At a recent small gathering, I enjoyed using my new Cookie Time Bundle set by Calamityware. The Things-Could-Be-Worse tray has a beautiful blue and white design. It is made from premium birch veneer and melamine, so it is beautiful, lightweight, and food safe. The Vigilant Dragons cookie jar is decorated with mystical, watchful dragons to protect your cookie stash from unauthorized withdrawals. The company even included a delicious recipe for PB Chocolate Chip Cookies to fill the cookie jar. The Dubious Musicians plates are adorable and the perfect size for snacks and desserts. They are made from fine porcelain with in-glaze decoration. To discover more beautiful, utilitarian, and funny products, visit their website at calamityware.com.

Outdoor Kitchen or Bar Area: Enhance your entertaining capabilities with an outdoor kitchen or bar area. Install a grill for barbecue sessions, a countertop for food preparation, and storage for utensils and ingredients. We do not have room for an outdoor kitchen or even a dining table, but we love our bar and how easy it is to have access to refreshments and drinks while entertaining.
Cozy Outdoor Accessories: Infuse personality into your outdoor space with cozy accessories that reflect your style. Layer decorative pillows and throw blankets to add warmth and comfort. Outdoor rugs are also a great idea. Incorporate outdoor-friendly decor such as potted plants, sculptures, or weather-resistant artwork to elevate the aesthetic appeal.
Weather Protection: Prepare for unpredictable weather conditions by incorporating elements of weather protection. Invest in umbrellas, awnings, or pergolas to provide shade during sunny days and shelter during light rain showers. Consider portable heaters or fire pits for cooler evenings, extending the usability of your outdoor space throughout the year.

Creating a memorable outdoor entertaining space requires a blend of practicality and creativity. By focusing on comfort, ambiance, and functionality, you can transform your outdoor area into a welcoming retreat for gatherings with family and friends. Embrace the versatility of outdoor decor to design a space that enhances your lifestyle and celebrates the joy of outdoor living.

Follow Lynn on Instagram @athomeinthewildwood.

Calamityware: Chaos that Sparks Joy

Tableware, gifts and delightful disasters for your home.

Calamityware is an eight-person company headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA where they believe in three things-having fun, taking naps and making their customers happy. Its founder, Don Moyer, is a prolific artist/drawer, who after 30 years of running his own successful communication and design consultancy, started Calamityware. Their vibrant, quirky and unusually unsettling giftware make great gifts and are simply too unique to miss out on!

To learn more visit calamityware.com and @calamityware on Instagram.