Now that the weather has warmed up and we’ve begun to unthaw, it’s time to think about spending time outdoors. And what better way to be outdoors than with a garden party, hanging out with your friends and family? Here are some tips based on this year’s outdoor decor trends on how to update your space for a picture perfect garden party!

Throwing Shade

Although we love basking in the sun after a long winter, you’ll likely want respite sooner or later. Make sure your outdoor area is equipped with enough shade to keep you cool on those steaming hot summer days. Patio and deck umbrellas are the perfect choice when looking to keep a large area of your outdoor space shaded, and they come in a plethora of sizes and colors. You can go with an umbrella attached to a dining set or opt for the recently popular free standing patio umbrellas that allow for more freedom of movement.

Awnings have come back into fashion again, so if you’re looking to shade just a small area near your home, that may be the choice for you.

New Neutrals

Although bright colors and fun patterns can really add a lovely style to your outdoor space, current trends point to more neutral looks. Textured neutrals in particular tend to have a lot of traction, as they help create interesting design while still being easy to match with other pieces. The soft greys that we have been seeing trending in indoor spaces have made their way outdoors, so look to play with different grey tones along with dark navy and other neutral colors.

However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t go bold. Mix both textured neutrals and eclectic patterns and colors! This works especially well if you pick your larger pieces in textured neutrals, like outdoor seating and rugs, while playing around with patterned toss pillows, blankets and other outdoor accessories.

Comfort Comes First

No matter how you design your outdoor space, comfort is king once again. New trends focus on making sure a space is as comfortable as possible in order to encourage you to spend as much time as desired in your garden or on your deck. Look to grab cushions and other plush seating choices not just in fun designs, but in resilient performance fabrics like Sunbrella or Outdura. Not only are these fabrics easy to clean, but they’ll last far longer than bargain cushions and be a much better return on your investment. You don’t want to purchase a cushion or seating option only to have it fade and show wear after one season.

Fire Table Trends

Fire tables are a hot new trend that have only increased in popularity over the last few years. These tables provide a smokeless, ash-less and clean fire that is easy to start and maintain. It’s easy to see why people are making the switch from fire pits to fire tables, especially since they come in so many styles and with so many options. Fire tables can add a wonderful ambience to your outdoor space and will certainly be a conversation piece. If you already have a fire table that you’re excited to start up again this year, remember to perform your semi-annual fire table cleaning. Remove spider webs and other debris from the metal gas lines in order to make sure they’re safe and ready to use. Make sure that if your table has a battery ignition you check to see if you need a new battery. Last step? Double-check to see if you have a fresh tank of propane to start your fire table so that nothing can get in the way of your toasty summer night.

Living With LED

Don’t remain in the dark! LED solar lights make great additions to your lighting system, no matter your set-up. Since LED lights are so popular, they come in nearly endless styles and even furniture. Sure, LED lights in cute lanterns or easy-to-place lighting in your yard can make the perfect addition to your space. But LED solar lighting can also be found in pieces like end tables, stools, and other pieces of outdoor furniture. These choices allow you to really customize your patio or deck without taking up space you may not have. The sky is the limit when it comes to figuring out the best way to light up your night.

Branching Out BBQ

So now that you have a perfectly decorated and incredibly comfortable outdoor space, spend some time on it! Barbecues are a classic way to enjoy those summer days and nights, and recently we’ve seen a break away from solely carnivorous choices. Grilled veggie recipes are popular, as they add a nice char and a nice change from steamed or raw vegetables. Fish and other seafood cook wonderfully on a grill as well. Do some research and look to expand your grill’s range this season! If you plan on doing a lot of outdoor cooking, you may want to invest in a Big Green Egg. This Japanese-style kamado cooker can grill, smoke and even be used as an outdoor oven, making new recipes a breeze, and making you the culinary envy of your garden party guests. Now, all you need is a selection of drinks and a cooler, and you’ll be set for entertaining into the evening.