With this week bringing the start of summer, it also unofficially marks the start of the summer cookouts and outdoor entertaining.

Outdoor entertaining used to mean a picnic with a drink cooler, paper plates and plastic flatware, or having burgers on the grill. Now, with the advances in outdoor kitchens and rooms, they have all the comforts of the indoors, making outdoor entertaining more stylish.  Outdoor kitchens are now equipped with high-end grills that allow you to make food on a stovetop, and have enough counter space for prep and storage.  There are even refrigerators, wet bars and sinks available for outdoor use.

While you are thinking about the perfect space for your outdoor party, you want to make sure your nosey neighbors can’t sneak a peek.   You can add “walls” by anchoring a wooden trellis in a large planter and hanging small pots of colorful flowers throughout.  If you have a porch, you can attach sheer fabric panels to the overhangs with metal hoops and hooks.  For a more rustic look, prop a reclaimed garden gate behind a bench or against a deck railing.

Once you have your outdoor room’s space defined, you need to make sure you pick furniture that can survive the elements. Solid materials like wrought iron, teak, cast aluminum and wicker are weather- resistant and easy to clean, as well as outdoor fabrics and rugs.  Simply grab the hose when you plan an impromptu party.

Providing lighting does not need to be expensive.  You can use string lights for subtle lighting, or candles, and oil torch lamps.  Hurricane lanterns will stay lit if it gets breezy and double as great centerpieces.  If your outdoor room gets a lot of light during the day, solar lights might be a good option.  There are even umbrellas available that have solar powered lights around pole.

Outdoor entertaining can be big planned shindig, or an impromptu gathering.  Make sure your Outdoor Space is ready for it!