7 Essentials for Backyard Entertaining

1) A barbecue grill or cook top is key.

2) Burn citrus candles to keep the bugs away.  Cover food, especially if serving meat and  sweet drinks.

3) Comfortable seating is necessary for everyone.  For large groups, if you have built-in seating or seat walls, these can supplement garden furniture.  They also keep the garden looking uncluttered.

4) You need easy access to the kitchen.  In addition, you want to design good traffic flow from house to garden and around outdoor living space.

5) Have umbrellas or other shade makers for afternoon parties in hot climates.  They also make great decorating items.

6) Serving or buffet surfaces is basic.  If you do not have built-in countertops, you can use portable carts or side tables

7) You need outdoor lighting for evening parties.

Outdoor grilling is no longer just a grill.  Today it includes grills, side burners, ovens, refrigerators, countertops, sinks, cabinets, lighting, electricity, cable televisions, speakers, fireplaces, and adjacent eating areas.  Fresh air, flowers and fresh breezes replace the walls and ceilings.