Outdoor entertaining ideas
Outdoor sofas
Comfy all-weather sofas or armchairs allow guests to lean back and relax. Look out for the latest weatherproof synthetic fabrics in fade-proof colours for long-lasting seating.
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Casual seating
Scatter plenty of seating options around your patio area, such as outdoor floor cushions, bean bags and stackable woven stools - the more casual seating, the better. Look for practical pieces, such as stools that can double as side tables for drinks, as well as outdoor tableware and glassware.
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Restricted space
If space is restricted, choose a narrow table and benches which don't take up too much precious space. Provide lots of seat pads so guests can sit in comfort.
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Easy kitchen access
Arrange seating and tables close to the kitchen for convenience. Better still, keep everything you need in outdoor storage cubes which can double as seating or side tables.
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Barbecue positioning
Make sure your chef can see what he's dishing up, by positioning your barbecue where it's well lit. And face it towards the table so whoever is on barbecue duty can chat and cook!
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Outdoor kitchen
Invest in an outdoor kitchen complete with a sink and refrigerator. They're available from barbecue specialist retailers.
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Keeping your drinks chilled
If an outdoor kitchen is a little pricey, bring out your reliable Esky and fill it with drinks and ice. You can use a metal tub or a colourful plastic basket loaded with ice as a stylish alternative.
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Re-usable cutlery
Keep a set of re-usable plastic or melamine plates for outdoor entertaining, or mix-and-match vintage plates from the op shop. Alternatively, go green. Buy the latest biodegradable picnic plates made from corn starch and cutlery made from sustainable bamboo.
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Clip-on table weights
If you like to cover your table with a cloth, make sure you keep it firmly in place by using clip-on table weights.
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Outdoor lighting
Create a magical night-time mood with lighting. As well as traditional fairy lights, look for lanterns, hurricane lamps and outdoor candelabra. Check out the beautiful candlelight screens with laser-cut patterned panels. Or deck out your entertaining area in tea lights in glass votives so they stay lit even if it's windy.
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Keep cool under cover
Entertain under cover so everyone keeps their cool - and avoids sunburn. If you don't have a pergola or covered deck, consider investing in a shade sail or a huge market umbrella.
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Outdoor ceiling fan
Stay cool with an outdoor ceiling fan - it gently circulates the air so you will feel as if you're holidaying in the tropics.
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Outdoor heater
As dusk falls, the weather sometimes cools. Keep everyone warm and the spirits high with an outdoor heater, be it a gas or electric patio heater, a chiminea or a brazier.
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Outdoor blinds
For all-weather protection, fit roll-up, cafe-style, PVC outdoor blinds. Clear blinds won't restrict your view but will protect you from the elements. Go for a durable version that comes with tracks, good quality zips, heavy rods to keep the blinds taut when down, and storm-locking systems. Find something to suit your needs and budget either online or at hardware stores, or the larger craft and home-decorating stores.
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