light. If you don’t have a covered patio, consider using an umbrella to
7. Service-ware
provide temporary shade—just make sure you fold it down for those
If your family eats outside a lot, or if you entertain a lot, chances are
crazy summer wind storms.
you have a set of dishes, trays, silverware, and even cups that you use.
And if you don’t, you should. The type of service ware you use should
5. Pergolas and Covered Patios
be appropriate for the occasion. Sometime paper plates and napkins,
Decks look so much more complete with the addition of a pergola. A and plastic silverware and cups are all you need. Our favorite outdoor
pergola gives a deck character and provides a focal point for decora- ware is made of Melamine—durable, washable, colorful and classy.
tion and design. Pergolas are great for vines, other climbing plants and Melamine comes in a variety of colors and patterns and doesn’t crack
hanging baskets. If you don’t have a green thumb, dress the pergola or splinter in the dishwasher like some plastics. If you dine a lot outside
with lights, ribbon or streamers for special occasions. For tips on how with your family consider making an inexpensive silverware and nap-
to build your own pergola visit http://www.buildeazy.com/fp_pergola. kin caddy from cardboard six-pack container (from root beer or beer).
html. It’s an easy way to keep your outdoor silverware handy and separated.
5
7
6
8
6. Lighting
8. Entertainment
Set the mood with lighting. From simple tea lights to elaborate garden
Selecting the furniture for your patio can be overwhelming. Instead of
lighting, the lighting options for how you choose to illuminate your
The outdoors is a great place to play. If your family or friends have a
outdoor space at night are endless—just make sure you don’t leave
competitive spirit, it’s always fun to have a few games on hand to keep
your guests (or your family) in the dark. Tikki torches are a great way
people entertained while dinner is being prepared. Here are a few of
to add the element of fire and light. Candles make any space romantic,
our favorites: croquet (classic), darts, bocce ball, ladder golf, lawn darts,
and a string of garden lights (or Christmas lights) add a gentle glow to
cornhole (a.k.a. corn toss), disk golf, or for the loner—Bimini Ring game.
your outdoor space.
(Learn more about Bimini Ring game at www.biminiring.com. Warning,
this game is extremely addictive!)
July/august 2009 45
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