With Summer upon us and the festive season closing in, ensuring your entertaining spaces are ready for your loved ones is essential. Whether you are hosting casual barbecues, intimate dinner parties, or simply enjoying the beauty of summer with family and friends, the right mix of plants, furniture, and design elements can make all the difference. By incorporating the right key pieces and creatively utilising your existing garden, you can bring joy to any space this Christmas. From choosing the ideal plants, to selecting the perfect furniture and accessories, these tips will help you create a festive environment that is perfect for celebrating the season.
Choosing the right furniture
Choosing the right furniture for an outdoor entertainment space is just as important as selecting the perfect plants, as it sets the tone for both comfort and style. The right outdoor furniture not only complements your landscape but also creates a welcoming and functional environment for guests. Consider what type of materials you prefer – whether its wicker, timber or teak – these mixed with a combination of metals will withstand the elements. With a combination of different forms of seating you can create plenty of space for entertaining.
Think about mixing and matching with what you already have and adding in new pieces that are beautiful and functional. When using 2-seater mosaic tables, with teak benches, adding in some foldable bistro Fermob chairs and pushing your tables together, ‘hey presto’ - any amount of people are be accommodated for.
The key is balancing aesthetics and comfort to make your outdoor space feel like an extension of your home. With lush greenery and carefully chosen furniture, you can transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis for friends and family to enjoy.
Creating the perfect table settings
Creating the perfect table setting for outdoor gatherings is all about blending beauty, functionality, and a touch of nature. Start by layering your table with different place mats, napkins, bowls and glassware to create complexity on your table. Changing the colour of your tablecloth can instantly change the mood of your space.
For a fresh, vibrant touch, incorporate plants into the decor, using small terracotta pots with rosemary and mint or hydrangeas as charming centrepieces. Add in a few candles or lights to create a warm, inviting ambiance as the sun sets. Using different fruit and vegetables as smaller centrepieces adds a freshness and a sense of connectivity to your garden. We love using fruit like apples, pears, lemons and limes, figs, artichokes and olives creating a gorgeous Mediterranean vibe. Whilst adding cherries to a table instantly says it Christmas time. With a little creativity and attention to detail, your table settings can become a stunning focal point that sets the mood for a memorable meal under the sky.
Choosing the right plants
Choosing the right plants for your outdoor space is essential to creating a harmonious and functional environment. The plants you select can set the tone for your garden or patio, whether you are aiming for a relaxed, tropical vibe or a more formal, manicured look. It is important to consider factors such as sunlight, soil type, and climate when choosing plants, as well as their size and growth habits to ensure they thrive in your space. Layering different textures and colours can add visual interest, while incorporating plants with varying bloom times extends the beauty of your garden throughout the year. At this time of year particularly, using potted Christmas trees in your entertaining décor can be an amazing sustainable way to bring the festive spirit to any gathering.
Additionally, selecting plants that complement your furniture, and other decor helps create a cohesive, balanced atmosphere. By choosing the right plants, you can transform any outdoor area into a lush, inviting sanctuary that not only enhances your home but also supports local wildlife and promotes a healthier environment. Come in and see the Nursery staff to choose which plants are right for you and your space. We love helping you choose plants that will thrive.
Bringing your garden onto your table
Bringing your garden onto your table through cooking and cocktails is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavours and scents of your outdoor space. Fresh herbs like basil, mint, rosemary, and thyme can elevate everything from savoury dishes to refreshing summer cocktails. Imagine muddling mint for a mojito or adding a sprig of rosemary to a roasted dish for a burst of aromatic flavour. Placing these herbs as centrepieces on your tables creates a cohesive connection between the setting and what your guests are tasting. You can also use edible flowers like nasturtiums or violets to garnish cocktails or salads, adding colour and a hint of sweetness. With a little creativity, your garden can be a natural extension of your kitchen, offering fresh, homegrown ingredients that make every meal or drink feel special.
By carefully selecting plants, furniture, and décor that reflect your personal taste and enhance the natural beauty of your space, you can transform your backyard into an inviting oasis. With a little creativity and thoughtful planning, your outdoor space will not only be the perfect spot for entertaining but also a peaceful retreat to enjoy throughout the summer season. Let your garden be the backdrop for unforgettable memories and make the most of every moment spent outdoors this summer festive season.