How to Create the Ultimate Outdoor Entertaining Space

Summer may be winding down, but there is still time to sneak in a few outdoor gatherings before the temperature drops. We’ve talked about maximizing small outdoor spaces and important patio prep tips, and now we’re sharing an assortment of décor pieces and accessories that will help elevate your outdoor entertaining space for a Labor Day barbecue or end-of-summer bash. Whether you are looking to completely deck out your space or just add a few pieces, here are some of our favorite items:

Lanterns

Add versatility and practicality to your outdoor lighting with a standing (or hanging) wire lantern. The wire design offers a unique take on the traditional outdoor lantern.

• Pier 1 – Large Black Wire Woven Lantern
• CB2 – Swoon Large Black Hurricane
• Article – Bori Large Black Lantern

Outdoor Rug

Tie together your furniture with a neutral area rug. A braided or woven texture adds interest and hides signs of wear and stains. Look for fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy-to-clean in the event of an accidental spill.

• Rugs.com – 5’ x 8’ Outdoor Basic Rug
• West Elm – Woven Cable Indoor/Outdoor Rug, Natural, 5’ x 8’
• Restoration Hardware – Braided Loop Rug, 5’ x 7’

Copper Fire Pit

As the temperature cools down, gather friends and family around the copper fire pit for a bit of warmth and s’mores. Just be sure your neighborhood does not have ordinances in place that prevent the use of a fire pit.

• Hayneedle – Sunnydaze Décor Royal Copper Cauldron
• All Modern – Copper Metal Wood Burning Fire Pit
• Crate & Barrel – Vitale Solid Copper Firepit

Patio Umbrella

Block the sun’s rays with an umbrella in your outdoor entertaining space. You can purchase a stand for easy relocation and positioning or use it in the umbrella hole of your patio table.

• Hayneedle – Abble 6.5 ft. Steel Square Patio
• Joss & Main – Billingham 6′ Square Market Umbrella
• Wayfair – Stambaugh 6’ Market Umbrella

Rolling Cooler

Be the “hostess with the mostess” when you effortlessly roll out drinks for your guests. This convenient and stylish backyard accessory is a necessity for maintaining optimal beverage freshness.

• Wayfair – 80 Qt. Patio Rolling Cooler
• CB2 – Rolling Cooler
• Home Depot – 100 Qt./25 Gal. Stainless Steel Wheeled Cooler

Outdoor Pillows

Add appeal and comfort to your outdoor sofa or lounge chair with patterned pillows. Look for water and mildew resistant options for easy cleaning and maintenance.

• Target – Square Cabana Stripe Outdoor Pillow
• Crate & Barrel – Sunbrella® Cabana Stripe Black 20” Sq. Outdoor Pillow
• Peri Golden – Martin Stripes Pillow

Activities and Games

Bring your guests together with games that are perfect for any outdoor get-together. Whether they’re tossing bean bags or playing a game of ladder ball, they’ll definitely enjoy the lighthearted competition.

• Wayfair – Toss Double Ladder Ball
• Walmart – GoSports Giant Wooden Toppling Tower
• Crate & Barrel – 2-in-1 Bean Bag Toss