Guest Picks: Creating an Outdoor Entertaining Space
These garden chairs are great extra seating for big parties, and they have the look and feel of bistro chairs you might see inside at the dining room table.
An outdoor bar cart is key for entertaining. I love the rustic wood and industrial wheels on this Pottery Barn version.
These multipurpose woven-plastic stools can be used as tables or extra seating when entertaining outdoors.
The rattan texture gives these lounge chairs the outdoor look, but the cushions lend to an indoor feel. They're perfect for relaxing in the shade.
This round table has a sophisticated pedestal shape and can hold six to eight people around it for dining alfresco!
Adding an all-weather rug is a great way to create an indoor feel in an outdoor space.
The pagoda shape on this outdoor sun umbrella gives it a unique look; it's a little more decorative than other standard porch umbrellas.
A fire pit is a great focal point for outdoor entertaining, and it can be the center of a conversation zone in your yard.
Ottomans are another great piece of indoor furniture that can be reinterpreted for the outdoors. I love the woven pattern on this version.
A hammock is such a classic piece for creating an inviting outdoor space. Hang one and create a little retreat area, removed from the center of your entertaining zone.
Outdoor fabrics have come a long way, and these moisture-resistant pillows are a great example. Add a mix of colorful pillows to chairs to soften an outdoor space.
Stringing cafe lights is a great way to create an ambiance for outdoor entertaining. I think this set from Ballard Designs is very whimsical with the cap details.
Hanging Mason jars with candles inside is another fun way to add soft light to an outdoor entertaining space. I would love to see these clustered together and hanging in a tree.
Big sculptural lanterns are a great way to add extra lighting to the tables, as well as artistic elements to the tablescape.
This tiered basket would be a nice piece of accent furniture for planting herbs or storing entertaining essentials — or both!
Think about ways to add weather-proof art to your outdoor space too. This American flag is already weathered and would probably look even better with more age.
Keep a stack of rattan trays on hand for making outdoor entertaining easier. This set nests for easy storage.
Forget paper cups — acrylic drinkware comes in so many shapes and styles now. I love this set in a light lime green.
Finally, think about adding a heater to your outdoor space to extend the entertaining season!Next: Patio Power: 12 Ways to Update Your Outdoor Room
This retro-looking piece has knock-down hardware on both the table and benches, making it a great solution for pop-up dinner parties in different areas of your yard.
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