Gearing up for Spring | 5 must-have entertainment items

It might not be summer at the moment, but it is the perfect time to get into the garden and start planning the perfect summer outdoor entertaining area.

Here are must-haves that will help you feel cool and breezy, come party time. Come on summer...

Making room for entertaining

Space-saving, folding tabletop for around R1 274 in manicaa

True to the South African lifestyle, outdoor life means a braai or enjoy a meal in the open air. Space to serve food and drinks, and if you're eating outdoors, space to enjoy your meal, is vital, so ensure that you have enough table space, or supplement it with side tables and trays.

A shady spot

Sunrite Alu/steel Pergola Stylish Pergola With Aluminium And Steel Frame for around R4 699 in House&Home

A pergola can cast enough shade to make a warm afternoon perfectly enjoyable or if you still need additional protection, you can install a retractable shade cover to guard against any unwanted wind. Some shade covers will even protect you from light rain, perfect for those unpredictable summer storms.

For all year round entertaining

If you are turning your garden into an extension of your indoor living space you will want to use this as much as possible, even during the cooler months of the year. Adding a fire pit not only adds a unique feature to the outdoors but also creates a place to sit and relax when the weather cools.

Alva Gas Firetable - Wicker Finish for R4 899 in Leroy Merlin

Ring burner is high in efficiency and allows for wide heat spread.

• Lid for when not in use
• Pebbles provide infrared heating effect - Fire pebbles included
• Fits all 5/8 Bullnose cylinder valves

Bring the indoors outdoors

When setting up outdoor living spaces, you want it to be just as comfortable as indoors. To create a comfortable space you are going to need furniture that is suited for outdoors, like these cool hanging chairs. It's a good idea to invest in covers for your furniture if you don't have a covered patio or deck.

2PCS Heavy Duty Suspension Hook Spring For 2-3 Seat Hanging Chair Garden Swing for around R679 at HappyFishZA

A garden swing or chair creates a relaxing place in the garden. You can make or buy one that is comfortable and lets you sit and swing with a comfortable book.

Accessories

Solar outdoor waterproof string lights for around R203 in Light in the box

If you intend to use the patio all year round, you are going to need to arrange for electrical points for lighting. Lighting fixtures can be solar and LED, along with different types, like path markers, spotlights and patio string lights.

Source: HomeDzine