Bring the warmth outside this winter

I don’t think many of us are looking forward to being confined inside our homes for the winter or giving up visiting with friends.  Good news --you don’t have to quit having backyard parties and outdoor dinners just because the temperatures drop.  Keep the outdoor entertaining hot, with a little planning. Here are some tips and ideas on how to spend time outdoors this winter with some ideas on staying comfortable, warm comfort foods and fun games to play. 

First things first--staying cozy

To keep you and your visitors warm put some warm comfy cushions on your chairs.  This will keep you all off the cold metal or wood of the chairs and provide a little extra barrier between you and the elements.  

Place rugs by each chair to keep the cold from seeping up from the ground.  

Keep a supply of warm blankets near by.  I know I love wrapping myself up with a cozy blanket.  It’s not just the warmth but also the comfort of feeling all bundled up and held.

Use a fire pit and or heaters.  Propane/gas fire pits and heaters are generally the best heat source.  Wood burning fire pits are good and provide a wonderful atmosphere but don’t provide the same level of warmth.  Then again it’s not the same making smore’s on a gas fire.  

Protection from the elements

If possible, put up a screen of some kind to cut down on wind.  You can do something like lattice work, or wood slats or you can put up free standing screens with insulated curtains or heavy plastic.  You will want there to be some openings to allow for air flow in this time of Covid.

Put up a “roof” to keep the elements at bay.  This can be something you build yourself if you are handy or something you buy ready to be put together and set in place.  It can be simple or elaborate and it can be fairly open or covered in canvass.  This will also provide some shade during the warm weather months.  

Here’s a link to some great DIY projects  https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/patios-and-decks/ideas-for-covering-a-deck

Lighting and decorations

Provided you have access to, you can string some lights to bring a warm quality to your space.  You can also add candles, both regular or led flames.  I have also seen ice candles, which are blocks of ice with an area carved out to hold a candle.  

You can use bales of hay for extra seating.  If you want to spuce it up a little you can cover them with fun fabric or blankets.

The pots that are sitting empty after the cold weather has killed off you summer flowers can be just as beautiful in the “off” season.  You can change them up depending on the season, leaves and gourds in the fall, evergreens, winter roses or holiday greens in the winter.  If you decide to use larger plantings you can hang lights on them for extra ambience.  

Warm up with goodies

Most of think of Smore’s when we think of backyard treats.  You can also roast hot dogs or individual skewers if you are thinking of something a little more hardy.  Don’t forget the drinks.  You can provide hot beverages like cocoa or cider and if you are so inclined, you can offer add ons for the adults in the crowd. 

Looking for something more elaborate?

Many of my clients have really begun to enjoy their outdoor space much more than they ever did in the past. If you want to take this the next step or two and make more permanent changes you can do things like plant trees or bushes for additional privacy and element screening.  I have one client who has decided to build an outdoor kitchen and add a hot tub to their backyard.  I can’t wait to hang out with them this winter.