Hi everyone! Check out my 2019 Patio Style Challenge Sponsored by The Home Depot. I’m grateful for the opportunity to reveal this sponsored post to you and demonstrate how I design an outdoor party space from scratch.
Many of us have an empty outdoor space waiting to be filled with patio furniture, outdoor accessories, a grill and fun – but we don’t know where to start. Believe it or not, my design process usually starts at The Home Depot (where I can build, buy or accessorize everything for less).
Ready for Entertaining
I’m about to host a spring kick-off barbecue party. I have a bunch of decorating ideas that revolve around my choice of Hampton Bay’s Laurel Oaks 4-piece Conversation Set and Traeger’s Pro 575 Smart Pellet Grill with WiFIRE technology. They’re both perfect choices for the way that I like to entertain.
We chose our home with comfort and entertainment in mind. We have a large family and a lot of friends. The property includes rolling hills, a pond, waterfowl and wildlife – so it’s great for nature lovers. What better way to share our ever-changing view and celebrate the change of the seasons than by throwing an outdoor barbecue party on our patio? The only problem is that the back patio is still unfurnished. The good news is…that’s all about to change as I design the perfect outdoor living space.
Designing the Space
The first consideration for furnishing the space is, how am I going to use it? I envision having large gatherings, as well as small. I really want my guests to feel comfortable. Transitioning from day to night should be effortless. I want the ability to re-arrange furniture pieces throughout the space, depending upon the occasion. I also want to create a sense of enclosure or coziness. Because that feeling makes people want to linger. People need to be able to eat, drink, and socialize easily.
The Perfect Accessories
Multi-functional accessories are a must – like a pouf that you can sit on, put your feet up on or set a plate on. I want to have the furnishings, food, drinks and grill right at my guests’ fingertips. Above all, I want my furniture and accessory choices to be stylish and act like an extension of my interior spaces. With so many lovely choices available at The Home Depot, you are sure to find the one that’s just right for you.
Being the Best Host
A huge part of our party’s success is being hosts that anticipate our guests’ every need. My family and I love interacting with everyone and making sure that their glasses and plates are full over the course of the entire party. We hate the thought of someone going home hungry because we didn’t offer enough variety.
I even have a DIY budget-friendly and stylish way to keep as many drinks cold as possible while keeping them in my guests’ line of sight. I don’t want anyone feeling uncomfortable about helping themselves! Best yet – this project won’t break your outdoor entertaining budget.
Proper Lighting at Night
Another important part of entertaining outdoors is to provide soft, attractive lighting after dark. It gently bathes your guests in a flattering glow instead of a harshly lit atmosphere and provides sure footing in an otherwise dark space. I’m installing remote-controlled flameless candles and hanging string lights to create a safe and warmly lit environment. It’s also a good idea to have a throw blanket nearby in case the evening gets a little chilly.
Perfect Outdoor Entertaining Space
Good, old-fashioned, hospitality means that you give your guests a relaxed, homey atmosphere. We want people to linger well past the time they thought they might leave and leave wishing they had more time to stay. I feel like a movie director when I set up a space – interior or exterior. I play the party scene out in my head beforehand and it always has a happy ending. It will for you too, if you follow my simple outdoor entertaining tips.
And remember…this patio isn’t just for parties. Make your space a reflection of you. Whether you want the solitude to read a book, sip a glass of lemonade, peruse catalogs, or simply feel like you’re already on vacation, Hampton Bay’s Laurel Oak Conversation Set is really all you need. So, enjoy these pictures and try this project for yourself, I’m sure that this sponsored collaboration with The Home Depot will help you achieve the comfort, style and value that you expect.
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