Summer's First BBQ: Setting Up an Outdoor Dining Space That Wows
The “unofficial start of summer” isn't actually marked by a date on the calendar. It starts the moment you smell that smoke from the grill – the summer season's first BBQ.
There's something so magical about getting friends and family together in the backyard and hearing the laughter that seems to come more easily under summer skies.
But if your outdoor dining area is still sporting those plastic folding chairs you inherited from your parents, it may be time for an upgrade.
Creating your perfect outdoor dining space that truly wows doesn't mean hiring a professional designer or cashing out your savings. It just requires a bit of thoughtful planning and the right elements.
Here are six steps to turning your backyard into the neighborhood's hottest spot this summer!
1. Start with the Right Outdoor Dining Set
The best outdoor dining space starts with the perfect table and chairs. When choosing your outdoor dining furniture, you’ll want to think about both form and function:
Choosing the Right Size for Your Space and Guest List
Your ideal dining set depends on two key factors:
- How many people do you typically entertain?
- How much space do you have available?
For standard-sized patios and yards hosting regular gatherings, you want a set that gives plenty of space for moving between the grill and seating.
Our soon-to-launch Haven Modern 6pc Outdoor Dining Set may be the perfect solution. This brand new addition to the Bahia Verde collection includes a sleek, modern design and a large rectangular table that comfortably seats six—ideal for weekend gatherings or impromptu Thursday night dinner parties.
But what if you’re living in an apartment or working with a more intimate space? Our Shoreline 3-Piece Bar Height Balcony Set creates a bistro-style experience that makes the most of even smaller outdoor spots.
The elevated height offers the bonus of improved sightlines, making it great for enjoying sunset views while sipping a summer cocktail.
Seating Options That Combine Comfort and Style
The right seating can make the difference between guests lingering for hours or making excuses to head home early:
● Contoured dining chairs provide ergonomic support for those hangouts that stretch from afternoon into evening.
● Bench seating offers a casual, communal vibe while maximizing your space efficiency, and is great for fitting in a few extra guests when needed.
● Bar-height stools create a fun, social atmosphere that encourages mingling and conversation.
For a flexible seating option, consider adding one of our Bahia Verde garden benches. These can serve as overflow seating during larger gatherings and as a standalone relaxation spot when the party's over.
2. Set the Mood with Outdoor Lighting
As the sun sets, the right lighting can keep people hanging out longer.
String lights draped overhead create an instant ceiling of warmth and ambiance. Weave them through pergola slats, hang them between your trees, or stretch them across the patio. You can then get creative and supplement your lighting with:
● Lanterns or LED candles clustered at the center of your table
● Solar pathway lights to guide guests safely around the yard
● Uplighting on nearby trees or architectural features to add depth
Remember, the goal is warm, diffused lighting rather than harsh brightness. You’ll want to have enough light to see your food and friends, but keep it soft enough to create an intimate summer vibe.
3. Provide Shade and Comfort
Nothing cuts a great summer party short faster than everyone melting in the heat. So, how can you make sure your guests actually hang around even when the temperatures soar?
Throw some shade (of the material variety) into your outdoor area. This helps everybody stay comfortable, and you can get creative with it!
● Patio umbrellas for targeted shade directly over the dining area
● Pergolas can give architectural interest along with shade
● Retractable awnings let you customize the amount of shade you want as the weather changes
Another way to keep things comfortable is to throw an outdoor rug beneath your dining set. This can help to define your dining space and bring a bit of intention to the outdoor design.
4. Elevate Your Table Setting
The best spot for a long outdoor dinner party? Your table. Your outdoor table setting deserves the same attention to detail as your indoor dining table. Choosing quality tableware and accessories can elevate the entire experience.
Invest in durable, shatterproof dinnerware (you’re outside, after all!) and add in cloth napkins and placemats in weather-resistant fabrics.
For larger gatherings, set up a dedicated serving station or bar cart near your dining area. This keeps everything accessible without cluttering your main table.
5. Create a Lounge Area for Post-BBQ Relaxation
Eventually the meal will end – so where will people go next? If you don’t have a place for your guests to linger, they’ll likely head to the door.
Designate a comfortable space near your dining area where guests can migrate with their drinks for post-meal conversation.
Our Waterfall Comfort Height Adirondack Chairs are a great example of combining the iconic comfort of Adirondack chairs with height that makes the chair cozy for everybody. The deep, reclined seating invites guests to settle in, while the wide armrests provide the perfect spot to rest a dessert plate or cocktail.
Don't forget to include side tables within easy reach of your seating. These practical pieces ensure everyone has a place to set their drinks and small plates, preventing spills and keeping the conversation flowing without interruption.
6. Add the Final Touches
The difference between a basic outdoor dining space and one that truly wows often comes down to the finishing touches:
● Incorporate greenery: Potted plants, hanging baskets, and container gardens add life, color, and a connection to nature
● Set up a sound system: Weather-resistant Bluetooth speakers provide background music that sets the mood without overwhelming conversation
● Remember pest control: Nothing ruins outdoor dining like unwanted insects. Incorporate stylish citronella candles or torches, or check out our guide on how to keep your summer paradise free from mosquito invasions
Your Outdoor Dining Space Deserves This Upgrade
Summer is short, and every moment spent outdoors should be enjoyed to the full. Investing in quality outdoor dining furniture means you’re creating space for memories you’ll hold onto for many years.
Are you ready to transform your outdoor dining area into a space that truly wows? The Bahia Verde Outdoors collection offers the best outdoor furniture options that are made to last – and won’t break your summer party budget. Made from the best HDPE recycled material, our furniture is stylish while also being sustainable and durable.
Explore our full collection of premium outdoor dining furniture today. Your perfect summer starts here!
