We have waved off summer and for many of us, we think this means saying goodbye to those long enjoyable BBQ parties and fun nights in our gardens. So many of us have invested time, money, and effort into our outdoor garden spaces and it seems a shame to stop using them just because the colder evenings have popped their head around the corner. Now obviously I’m not saying you should have friends over during a snowstorm, expect them to sit outside and then wonder why they don’t take you up on your next offer!! But as the chilly Autumn nights arrive, I have a few tips to show you how to adapt your space for cosy outdoor entertaining. 

Send out the invites and fire up the Grill.

LIGHTING

Lighting is definitely one of the easiest ways to create a warm, cosy feeling in your garden. Overhead fairy lights or festoon lights would have the bulk of lighting you need to help you see as you are cooking on the BBQ while giving a fun, party feel to the evening. My favourite way to dress up my garden during Autumn is adding soft, glowing lanterns and candles to the space to create a sense of intimacy as you sit and enjoy the evening. Battery-operated flameless candles give off the same warm glow as traditional candles, with no fear of wind, fire hazard, or spilled wax. 

KEEP WARM AND COSY

The Fire pit has become a garden must-have this year, and there’s nothing cosier than sitting around the flames as you relax for the evening. Remember, no one wants to sit outside in the cold when they could be nice and warm inside, so why not add some guaranteed heat to your evening with a Fire Pit, Patio Heater or Tabletop Patio Heater. Toasted marshmallows are always a hit so you can incorporate these as a fun treat/dessert idea over your Fire Pit! A guaranteed winner. For warming up by the fire on chilly nights, toss a few cozy blankets on outdoor chairs for guests.

THE LOOK

Although it may be time to put away sun loungers, you can still create a beautiful outdoor space. Look for warming colours as you add candle holders, lanterns, outdoor cushions and throws to your space for guests to sit relax and enjoy. I love to collect the fallen red, brown, and amber leaves then gather them around my lanterns, this looks so pretty. If you’re hosting friends for a BBQ, why not look for autumn centrepieces or use pumpkins to create a fun festive feel.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Many of us lock away our BBQ once the summer comes to an end. But there is something wonderful about cooking outdoors during the cooler months. From roast chicken cooked low and slow to other meat, fish and your favourite veggies, break out those BBQs for year round yummy treats.

Pulled pork can be cooked on your Grill. For a crowd, grill the pork on a low, constant temperature with indirect heat. Using a thermometer at the thickest park to make sure its cooked through, 190-195 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect. When it is cooked, take it off the grill and leave to sit for about ½ hour, that is if you can resist it! Simply pull it apart into stringy chunks with two forks and serve with some baby potatoes and salad. Easy!

Enjoy, and let me know what you think via our Facebook or Instagram. 

Andrea

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