Title:
Is Your Backyard Summer-Ready? 7 Essential Tips for Perfect Outdoor Entertaining
Content:
A recent survey of 2,000 US adults with backyards revealed that an overwhelming 81% are eager to host parties in their outdoor spaces. However, a significant 14% admitted that their yards need a little sprucing up before they can confidently entertain guests this summer.
Setting the Stage for Summer Entertaining
According to the survey findings, 34% of respondents recognize the need to enhance their outdoor spaces to prepare for hosting duties, with the average person devoting seven hours per week and up to $1,400 to beautify their yards before upcoming gatherings.
Patio Perfection: The Must-Have Improvements
The research, conducted by Talker Research in partnership with Big Lots, highlighted the most sought-after improvements for backyard hosting. Topping the list is proper patio furniture (57%), followed closely by revamping existing patio furniture (39%), installing bug repellants (37%), and setting up ambient lighting (36%).
Elevating Your Outdoor Oasis on a Budget
While transforming your backyard for hosting can be an investment, budget-conscious planning is key. The study showed that the majority felt they could host a party for as little as $190. Most respondents (82%) emphasized the importance of sticking to a budget, especially when considering new patio furniture or other upgrades.
Creating Lasting Memories with Loved Ones
Shelly Trosclair, SVP of Merchandising at Big Lots, emphasized the value of enhancing outdoor spaces for creating cherished memories with family and friends. She highlighted the opportunity to cultivate a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere without breaking the bank, allowing for relaxed, enjoyable gatherings throughout the seasons.
Essential Elements for Successful Outdoor Soirees
To facilitate memorable moments, respondents emphasized the importance of essentials like accommodations for eight guests, a designated cooking area (77%), quality patio furniture (75%), and sufficient shading (53%). Additionally, 76% of participants plan to host an average of three outdoor dinner parties or cookouts this year, with 11% embarking on their hosting journey for the first time.
Favorite Outdoor Occasions and Culinary Choices
For those who enjoy dining al fresco, the survey revealed that grilled meats (89%), potato salad (64%), grilled vegetables (58%), melon fruits (58%), and salads (51%) remain favored dishes during outdoor occasions. Furthermore, holidays (54%), birthdays (51%), casual gatherings (50%), and visits from family and friends (45%) topped the list of preferred occasions for outdoor celebrations.
Planning Your Outdoor Gatherings
For those eagerly looking forward to outdoor gatherings, the research highlighted the preferred months for hosting, with July (26%), June (25%), and May (20%) emerging as the top choices. Interestingly, a quarter (24%) expressed readiness to host in April, indicating the early start of the outdoor entertainment season.
Embarking on Your Backyard Refresh Journey
Shelly Trosclair reiterated the impact of small updates in creating significant transformations within your outdoor space. Starting with accents like cushions, pillows, string lights, or an umbrella can set the tone for a revamped patio area that enhances gathering experiences with loved ones.
Innovative Ways to Fund Your Backyard Makeover
Looking for creative ways to fund your backyard makeover? One couple shared their entrepreneurial journey by selling leftover shoots from their abundant backyard garden. By leveraging their gardening expertise, they turned excess flower shoots into a profitable small business, demonstrating the potential for innovation and resourcefulness in backyard projects.
Top 7 Ways to Prep Your Backyard
- Getting proper patio/yard furniture – 57%
- Sprucing up existing patio furniture/décor – 39%
- Setting up bug repellants – 37%
- Installing lights – 36%
- Planting more plants – 34%
- Installing a new place to cook (a grill, smoker, etc.) – 27%
- Setting up shading – 26%
By incorporating these essential elements and tips, you can elevate your backyard into a welcoming and stylish space for hosting memorable gatherings throughout the summer season. Start small, dream big, and watch your outdoor oasis come to life with creativity and careful planning.