Then be ready for it! Put on your favorite shorts (men, no cut-off jean shorts pretty please) and a cool top and enjoy a wonderful summer night outside! There are several things that are pretty much necessities for livin’ it up outdoors during these next few months. We could probably think of a half a million fun things, but these are the basics, folks.
1)Patio Furniture. You should like where you sit. It’s that simple. Nothing has the power to “upgrade” a space quite like the furniture you choose. There are loads of great styles out right now so everyone is sure to find something to suit their tastes. Consider also the placement of these pieces. You want to make sure that the flow of foot traffic and any view you may have aren’t encumbered, but made better by where you place the biggest pieces. Southern Homes & Gardens has some really beautiful sets- everything from tables and chairs to chaise lounges, umbrellas to cushions can be chosen to suit your home or decor.
Southern Living2)A good grill. We aren’t suggesting that everyone run out and buy a Big Green Egg, but cooking outside is one of the things that makes summer fun- and ”grillin’ out” is a great excuse to get together with friends! (And ladies, we get to take a breather while the men handle half of the meal… amen?!)
3)An umbrella or covered porch area. You get the idea, you need some place to get a break from the hot sun. And this can be a fun way to bring in a punch of color, too!
Susan Ferrier for Southern Accents
Southern Accents
Suzanne Kasler for Architectural Digest
4)Lighting. This can make a world of difference in the ambiance once the sun goes down. You should consider lighting both for safety’s sake when walking back indoors over uneven terrain at night, but also (can we say more importantly? no, we shouldn’t say that…) think of the lighting you will want when entertaining after hours.
Southern Living 
Southern LivingThoughts on some other outdoor summer essentials?? Share them with us!
