Holiday Wishes and Special Beach-inspired Drinks to Enjoy this Holiday Season!
As we wrap up another remarkable year, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to you, our cherished community of outdoor living enthusiasts.
From sunrise coffee moments in Adirondack chairs to evening gatherings around fire pits, you've shown us countless ways to make the outdoors truly feel like home.
This year has reminded us that some of life's most precious moments unfold in our outdoor spaces. As we enter this festive season, we encourage you to think of your outdoor space not just as a fair-weather friend – but as an extension of your holiday celebrations.
After all, there's something extraordinarily special about sipping a warm beverage beside a crackling fire pit while winter stars twinkle overhead.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Outdoor Setting
The secret to embracing outdoor living during the holiday season lies in thoughtful preparation and creating layers of warmth that invite guests to linger longer.
Get Cozy with a Fire Pit
Nothing captures the essence of both beach bonfires and winter warmth quite like a well-positioned fire table or pit. Add oversized coastal-themed throw pillows and ultra-soft, weather-resistant blankets in sandy neutrals and sea-glass blues to create an inviting atmosphere that draws guests outdoors.
Use Warmth!
Creating multiple warmth sources ensures your entire outdoor space remains comfortable even as temperatures dip. One way to do this is strategically placing sleek outdoor heaters around your dining areas or conversation nooks.
Furniture That Functions
Your outdoor furniture plays a starring role in winter entertaining success. Here's how to optimize your key pieces:
Adirondack Arrangements
Their wide arms aren't just perfect for holding drinks – they're ideal for displaying small holiday arrangements featuring coastal elements like pinecones or sea-inspired driftwood. Position them in pairs or small groups, angled slightly toward each other to encourage conversation.
Porch Swings
Transform your porch swing into a holiday hideaway by adding plush cushions in festive yet beach-inspired patterns.
Think subtle metallics mixed with soft blues and whites, reminiscent of frost on the sand. This becomes the perfect spot for guests to gently sway while enjoying a warm holiday cocktail.
Weather-Ready Dining
To serve meals outdoors, make sure your dining set is properly winterized. Add seat cushions in weather-resistant fabrics that combine comfort with practicality. A mix of covered and open-air seating allows guests to choose their preferred dining spot while maintaining the flow of your space.
Remember, the key to successful winter outdoor living is creating an environment that feels both special and effortless. Just as summer beach days are about relaxation and enjoyment, your winter outdoor space should maintain that same inviting, carefree coastal spirit – just with added layers of warmth and holiday charm.
Our Favorite Coastal-Inspired Holiday Cocktails
Now that your outdoor space is ready for cozy winter company, why not help them enjoy the season with some beach-inspired holiday drinks? As our gift to you, here are some of our favorite cocktail and mocktail recipes that are perfect for gatherings all season long.
Blue Christmas Cocktail
This vibrant blue cocktail evokes the color of tropical waters and brings a taste of the islands to your holiday party. (Because who says beach drinks are only for summer?)
Ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup Blue Curaçao
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or cream of coconut
- 1/2 cup white rum
- Ice for serving
How to Make:
- Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain into glasses filled with ice.
- Garnish with pineapple slices or coconut flakes.
For a mocktail version, simply omit the rum and add more pineapple juice or coconut water.
Santa's Tropical Vacation
This festive drink imagines Santa relaxing on the beach after his Christmas duties. Just like he’s been working hard to bring the joy this year, this cocktail brings a taste of the islands to your holiday party.
Ingredients
- 5 oz vodka
- 2 oz guava nectar
- 2 oz cranberry ginger ale
- Ice
- Starfruit slice for garnish
How to Make
- In a shaker, combine vodka and guava nectar with ice. Shake well.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with cranberry ginger ale.
- Garnish with a slice of starfruit.
Ocean Water Mocktail
This blue mocktail reminds us of clear tropical waters – and best of all, it’s perfect for all ages! You’ll wonder if you smell sunscreen and hear the waves crashing as you sip on this one.
Ingredients
- 5 oz sweetened coconut water
- 3 oz lemon-lime soda
- Juice from 1/2 a lime
- 1/8 teaspoon blue food coloring (or natural blue pigment)
- Ice
How to Make
- Add all ingredients except ice to a glass and stir well.
- Slowly add ice to fill the glass.
- Garnish with a lime twist.
North Pole-adas
A wintery twist on the classic piña colada that brings tropical vibes to cold weather. When you want to really feel the magic of the holidays, try this festive drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz white rum
- 2 oz coconut cream
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- Ice
- Coconut flakes and cherry for garnish
How to Make
- Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and top with coconut flakes.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Quick Tips for Seaside-Inspired Holiday Entertaining
Consider these thoughtful touches to transform your outdoor gathering into an unforgettable coastal holiday experience.
- Greet your guests with warm apple cider served from a beverage station decorated with fairy lights and seaside elements, such as starfish and lanterns filled with ornaments and sand.
- Place cozy throw blankets in covered baskets near each seating arrangement to create intimate conversation areas. This allows guests to easily grab warmth when needed.
- Consider setting up a hot chocolate bar with beach-themed mugs and coastal toppings like sea salt caramel and coconut flakes.
- Mix traditional holiday tunes with acoustic beach music to keep the music subtle but festive, creating the perfect laid-back atmosphere.
Happy Holidays From Our Family To You!
Remember that the joy of outdoor living doesn't need to hibernate for winter.
Whether you're gathering around the fire pit with loved ones, swaying gently on your porch swing with a warm drink in hand, or hosting a full holiday feast under the stars, your outdoor space can be the perfect setting for creating lasting holiday memories.
From our beachy heart to yours, we wish you a holiday season filled with warmth, joy, and the peaceful serenity that comes from embracing outdoor living in all its seasonal glory. Happy holidays!
