How to Create Great Outdoor Spaces for Fall Gatherings

With autumn making its way to the area, it’s time to start planning for some cozy fall entertaining! Being outdoors in the fall is the best way to enjoy the crisp autumn breezes before things get too cold and outdoor entertaining is unbearable. But how do you transition your summertime lawn into a cozy spot for guests to gather?

There are a few things you’ll need for perfect outdoor parties this fall. Check these out and invest in some time and a few new items to craft a perfect party space in your own backyard.

A Roaring Fire

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A place to burn a crackling fire is essential for fall gatherings. For most of history, people have been gathering around the sights, sounds, and smells of a glowing fire. Build your own fire pit or purchase a ready-made model from the hardware store. Inviting friends for dinner followed by s’mores for dessert or a classic bonfire party with roasted hot dogs over the flames are both effortless ways to entertain in the fall months.

Lighting

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String lights with warm toned Edison bulbs make any space feel cozy. String a few from your house to a tree and back again for a look that feels modern yet timeless. The extra lighting in your outdoor space will welcome cozy conversation and make shorter days feel more alive.

A few candles in jars on outdoor tables and luminaires along pathways will also add an elegant touch to your lighting scheme. Illuminating your backyard with the flicker of small lights is the perfect way to create the perfect ambiance.

Cozy Seating

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A selection of benches, Adirondack chairs, and any host of outdoor seating options are fun ways to expand the party beyond your patio or porch. Circle a fire pit with simple chairs or hay bales for a classic (and inexpensive) party seating plan. If you don’t have enough seating on hand, pull a few folding chairs outside around the fire or throw some thick blankets on the ground.

Ways to Bundle Up

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Cold natured friends and anyone not adequately bundled will appreciate a selection of cozy blankets for wrapping up. When nights get chilly, it’s always nice to grab a warm quilt or plush flannel blanket to drape over your legs or around your shoulders. Guests will love this extra special touch at your fall gatherings.

Perfect Produce

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The easiest seasonal decoration is a scattered array of fall produce. Pumpkins of every shape, size, and color make for perfect décor when piled in an area. Switch things up with unique color choices and coordinating gourds. The more variety in shape, size, and texture, the better! An ample display of beautiful pumpkins always makes a statement and evokes happy fall memories.

Warm Drinks and Great Conversation

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What some might argue is the most important ingredient for a successful fall party, is the drink selection. Warm drinks are an absolute must during chilly fall nights outdoors. Warm your hands and your insides by sipping a delicious hot beverage in the company of great people!

Hare are some of our favorite warm drink ideas when entertaining in the fall:

• Mulled wine with fall spices

• Hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks

• Spicy Mexican style hot chocolate with cinnamon and cayenne

• A coffee bar with flavored syrups (don’t forget the pumpkin spice!) and other delicious mixers

• Hot buttered rum

• A selection of herbal, black, and green teas for every guest’s preference

By using some of these tips to prepare your outdoor spaces for fall entertaining, you’re sure to plan a party that creates memories for years to come. Whether it’s for Halloween, a back to school mixer, or a no-occasion celebration, these tips will help you to create the perfect space for showing hospitality and spending quality time with loved ones!