Spring is the perfect time to start thinking about your outdoor space and getting your garden or outdoor lounge area ready for entertaining. There are plenty of ways to make it look and feel like an extension of your indoor living area. Here are some tips to help you decorate your outdoor space for summer entertaining and make it a beautiful outdoor oasis ready for friends and family!
BRING THE LIFE!
First things first, plants and greenery are a great way to bring life and energy to your garden and spring is the perfect time to add some color to your garden. Plant some annuals or perennials that will bloom throughout the summer months. You can also add some potted flowers to your patio or deck area. Try a cluster of varied flowers including more unique florals. I typically plant a more formal, symmetrical look in my planters, but this spring, I am going for a more romantic Bohemian vibe. It calls for fewer mixtures of flowers within the same container, and more single-item plants or flowers in individual containers that are clustered together in varied heights and sizes. This will not only add some color to your garden but also provide a welcoming touch for your guests. Some classic beauties we can’t get enough of are hydrangeas, zinnias, and Black-eyed Susans!
CONTAINER GARDENING
We think this is a fantastic way to add some greenery and life to your outdoor space, without having to worry about planting in the ground. Whether you have a balcony, a patio, or just a small patch of concrete, you can create a beautiful container garden with some pretty planters. First, decide on the type of plants you want to grow – maybe some herbs, flowers, or even vegetables. Then, choose some cute containers that match your style and space. You can go for colorful ceramic pots, vintage-looking tin cans, or even repurpose old buckets or baskets. Fill your planters with high-quality soil and add your chosen plants, making sure they have enough room to grow. Finally, place your planters in a sunny spot and water them regularly. Voila – you’ve got a gorgeous container garden that will brighten up your outdoor space!
Here is a beginner’s guide to starting a container garden: https://www.almanac.com/content/container-gardening-vegetables.
We love growing patio herbs to use for cooking and making herbal mocktails and cocktails. Our go-to garden essentials are: basil (purple and standard), cilantro, red, yellow, and orange peppers, jalapenos, lavender, mint, lemon thyme, sage, blueberries, and raspberries.
Why do we especially love a container garden on the deck? Because it keeps them safe from animals and is easy access from the kitchen!
Photo Credit: Amy with Interior Impressions 
Photo Credit: Amy with Interior Impressions
GET COZY: START WITH THE BASICS
A comfortable lounge area is a must-have for any outdoor entertaining space. Before you start decorating, make sure your outdoor space is functional. This means ensuring that you have enough seating for your guests. Consider adding a comfortable seating area with a sofa and chairs, add a table for food and drinks, and some shade with an umbrella or pergola to keep your guests comfortable on hot days.
Some of our favorite brands that are filled with durable, high-quality pieces: Four Hands Furniture, Essentials for Living, Universal Furniture. If you see any pieces you love, give us a call and we’re happy to order them for you!
SET THE MOOD WITH LIGHTING
Good lighting is key to creating a welcoming and cozy atmosphere in your outdoor space. You can add some lanterns, string lights, or candles to your outdoor space. This will not only provide lighting for your guests but also add a beautiful ambiance to your garden. They even have dimmable smart string lights now that you can program through your phone and set the time of day you want to have them on or program through Alexa! The options are endless with technology these days.
ADD SOME FUN ELEMENTS
Finally, add some fun elements and color to your garden to keep your guests entertained and cozy. You can add some pillows, a fire pit, a game feature, a bar cart, or even a water feature. This will not only keep your guests entertained but also create a more inviting and fun yet relaxed atmosphere in your outdoor space.
Decorating your outdoor space for summer entertaining is all about creating a space that is comfortable, functional, and inviting. With a few simple touches, you can transform your outdoor space into an extension of your indoor living area and make the most of the beautiful summer weather. And as always, we’re here to help if you need it! Happy decorating in the Sunshine! 🙂
XO,
Amy & The Interior Impressions Team
Leave a Reply