Outdoor Entertaining Made Easy This Winter
Even though the weather is getting cooler, that doesn’t mean outdoor entertaining has to stop. Spending time with friends and family is important year-round, and with a little bit of planning, you can comfortably continue hosting garden gatherings during the colder months.
We’ve partnered with decor expert Melanie Lissack for tips and ideas to help make outdoor entertaining a breeze. From ways to keep your guests warm and comfortable to gardening considerations, we’ll cover everything you need to know to effortlessly take your parties outside even when there’s a chill in the air.
ADD COLOUR WITH WINTER-FRIENDLY FLORA
Winter gardens can be just as vibrant and cheerful as spring and summer displays. The trick is finding seasonal blooms that add colour during dreary days but won’t mind the chillier temperatures.
After preparing spring bulbs for the next growing season, revive tired containers by incorporating plants that thrive in colder conditions.
One of Melanie’s favourite picks is cyclamen. “Cyclamen will bring shades of punchy magenta pink, bold reds and pretty winter whites into your garden that last until late winter as they are frost-hardy. As they are also perennials, they will come back to flower every winter!”.
If you have a smaller space or you’re decorating a patio area, why not pick your favourite winter blooms and add them to a vase to adorn the table for the perfect natural centrepiece.
You never know when friends or relatives will pop by during the festive season, so having the ability to use your outdoor furniture at a moment’s notice is incredibly convenient.
Our nature covers are the ideal solution – made from a breathable yet durable fabric, they protect your chairs and tables from the elements and wildlife, so they’re clean, dry and ready to use whenever you need.
We have nature covers available in a range of sizes and configurations to suit your specific outdoor furniture.
OPT FOR AN EXTENDABLE TABLE
“While you may be happy with your current indoor dining table for daily life, it might not be an adequate size to cater for family and friends at Christmas”, explains Melanie. “A good idea would be to invest in a good quality, stylish, extendable dining table that can be kept outside all year round”.
A great option is the Rialto Extendable Dining Table which offers a modern setting and a space-saving pull-out design that can be put in place by just one person without the need for screwdrivers or complicated pieces.
Depending on how many people you’re hosting, an extendable table can be increased in length by up to 67cm, providing you with ample seating space for you guests.
ENCOURAGE OUTDOOR SOCIALISING
Though venturing outdoors in winter may seem unappealing initially, a brief escape into the crisp, refreshing air is often welcome after indulging in seasonal revelries. Set the stage for an alluring alfresco lounge where friends can decompress while remaining warm and content.
Plush cushions accented by glowing lanterns, heaters and cosy textiles like woollen blankets and throws will allow your guests to relax and stay warm while enjoying the winter views.
Ensure every guest can relax in cosy comfort by keeping weatherproof outdoor dining chairs at the ready to accommodate extra visitors.
Durable all-season seating eliminates the need for flimsy fold-ups and prevents disagreements over less-than-ideal arrangements.
Melanie recommends our Matera Dining Chairs – “The Matera collection comes in a range of six colour options and additional seat cushions, making them a sophisticated choice. We chose the green option as we thought they were a particularly nice choice for blending in with seasonal, festive hues”.
CREATE A DRINKS STATION
Don’t make your guests run inside every time they need a beverage refill. Set up a hot drink station right on the patio or deck so everyone can self-serve all evening long.
“Creating an outdoor drink station is a great way to allocate a space where all drink options can be gathered for your guests to choose from, as well as keeping beverages chilled in the winter climate”, explains Melanie.
An outdoor kitchen area is the perfect addition to any entertainment space, ensuring you’re able to keep glasses topped up throughout the night with ease.
From hot drinks and chilled wines to snacks and canapes, an accessible kitchen is a wonderful way to guarantee memorable gatherings.
Explore our range of pergolas and furniture collections, to create your perfect summer set-up.
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