Master Class

Al Fresco Entertaining

06/22/2020

Aching for an escape while social distancing measures are still in place? Here's a secret: You can find that summer sanctuary close to home, whether you're gridlocked in a city or have ample suburban space to call your own. Our tips, below.

For a Picnic Under the Stars

Instead of daytime, opt for a picnic under the stars—just add some string lights or hurricane lanterns. And instead of a regular picnic basket, why not opt for one lined in pretty florals—like this wicker style here by Juliska? And your wine? Keep it chilled in its own matching wicker cozy. Grab some old-fashioned board games or, if you want to take things toward a cinematic turn, make it a picnic under the Hollywood stars with a portable projector and a white sheet as your screen. Style tip: Bring a jacket for the nighttime chill.

Clockwise from top left: Nine Fair's Backgammon board, Epson's VS250 portable projector, Juliska's floral-lined picnic basket set and Mark & Graham's rattan wine tote

For Backyard Barbecues

There's nothing like a great backyard barbecue—it's an American tradition. Add a fun jolt of the tropical, by way of Miami, with bright and bold citrus colors. Case in point: One Kings Lane's vintage-style patio umbrellas, which offers both fashion and function, in kicky stripes and saturated hues. Don't forget to bring outdoor games for the kids—cornhole; paddle-ball—and pro recipes for the adults. Style tip: Platforms give height—and you won't sink into the grass.

Clockwise from top left: The Grilling Book by Bon Appétit, Daiana two-tier patio umbrella by One Kings Lane, Sunnylife's beach sounds radio and beach bats

For a Balcony Bistro

Downtown dwellers, turn your balcony or fire escape into its own five-star bistro on the Mediterranean. Punch things up with vibrant patterns and vivid colors—go ahead, mix patterns. For comfort, especially if you're in a folding chair out there, bring a lumbar pillow—but make it fashion, like this fun one by Aphro Chic. And once the digestifs hit, keep the night going with a game of cards (and more cocktails). Style tip: Go colorful with florals to cheer up the gray cityscape around you.

Clockwise from top left: Wildbird dessert plates by La Double J, 4-piece flatware set by The Black Home, Hustle lumbar pillow by Aphro Chic and Versailles playing card set by Jonathan Adler

For Rooftop Cocktails

Remember the four C's—cocktails and… color, color, color! We're big fans of colored glassware here—trust us, it's a hostess game-changer—and ditch the paper napkins for patterned linen ones by India Amory (now available at our Nantucket store) for some playful polish. If there's elevator access, roll a bar cart up to elevate the affair. The small touches are what will make this feel like a night out vs. a night in. Style tip: Pick an outfit (and shoes) you can dance in.

Clockwise from top left: Legume dinner napkins by India Amory, Monaco rattan bar cart by Serena & Lily, flamingo bottle opener by Scully & Scully and Estelle's stemless colored glassware