How to Decorate Your Patio for Summer Entertaining

We’re not sure what’s the best part of summer — trips to the lake, afternoons by the pool or patio parties and backyard entertaining. Thankfully, we don’t have to choose! You can do them all this summer.

But while packing the family into the car for a day of splashing in the water is pretty straightforward, the art of throwing the optimal outdoor party is a bit more nuanced. Here are a few of expert tips for decorating your space for a rocking summer soiree.

1. Know the space you’re working with

Big backyard or small patio, you can throw a fabulous fiesta either way — you just have to plan accordingly. If your design eye is drawn to robust pieces of furniture, be sure that you have the space for them. A small patio can still feel substantial if you choose the right furniture.

Choose a simple setup like a few chairs distributed around a moveable fire pit. Or, if you’d like to have a larger party, opt for high-top tables that allow for more standing room but also contribute to a chic, summery vibe.

A larger patio can include multiple vignettes of seating or feature a larger statement piece like a couch or daybed.

2. Be aware of the flow of festivities

Just having people over for drinks? Maybe you’re throwing an elaborate potluck? Or perhaps it’s all about barbecue and brews. Whatever the occasion, be cognizant of how people will navigate your space.

If it’s largely about the food, be sure to have plenty of seating and tables. Arrange your furniture so that it’s easy for people to talk to other guests while still enjoying their food. You should also have a few serving stations so that your friends and family don’t become clogged in one long line. Achieving a smooth flow of food means having different tables for condiments, the meal, drinks, etc.

If your event is more about socializing with a beverage, a mix of sitting and standing room is ideal. The most important thing, though, is to make sure you have a few drink stations. A cute cooler can hold beer, wine and sodas, while a bar cart nearby may have liquors, an ice bucket and glasses for cocktails.

3. Have a theme in mind

You don’t have to be wedded to a design scheme for all your parties, but make sure you’re picking furniture that is versatile and can fit the kinds of parties you like to throw.

If you’re more of a garden party family, neutrals with pops of color work well. Maybe you’ve always been known for more lively affairs? Go bold with bright furniture pieces. Try your hand at a painted patio, too! Wood, cement and tiles can all be quickly jazzed up with a pop of color.

4. Comfort is key

Summer afternoons and evenings come with their own set of entertaining hurdles. If your patio isn’t covered, keep your guests comfortable during the daytime by setting up a big umbrella. This also works wonders to define gathering spots either at the dinner table or by a bar setup.

And don’t forget about the seating. Comfy cushions mean people will be able to kick back, relax and have fun. As things progress into evening, string lights, candles or solar lanterns all provide enough light while not blinding or overpowering a space.

Looking to redecorate an outdoor space this summer? Find everything you need at Ashley Furniture of Tucson and Green Valley. Their team of experts can provide advice to help you style your backyard for any event this season. To learn more, visit online at AshleyFurnitureHomeStore.com, call at (520) 917-2417 or stop in at 100 N Pantano Road.