Summer at Home Presented by DJW Home

by Stephen E.

When it comes to summer entertaining, it's all about making the most out of your outdoor space. Whether you're hosting pool parties for the neighborhood or grilling up a delicious dinner for friends after work, any space can be tranformed into your own outdoor paradise with the right accessories.

The summertime provides ideal conditions to host outdoor get-togethers, but it also comes with some unique variables to consider when planning. Try using these tips to make sure your outdoor space is prepared:

Ambiance – One of the most important aspects to a successful outdoor gathering is the ambiance. There are a variety of things to consider here including color scheme, decoration theme and seating arrangements. Say you are hosting a barbecue on your patio. Make sure to have ample seating around a few different tables as well as seating away from the tables. This allows folks some options to lounge before, during and after the meal. You want to leave space to allow people to feel comfortable, yet close enough to allow them to easily speak to one another. In terms of color and theme, you should use the natural beauty of your surrounding yard to guide you. Aquiesse Coastal Hyacinth Candle, which are carried at DJW Home, come in a variety of colors and scents. Complement your yard, don't clash with it!

Food and Drink Service – Summer is a time to savor the fresh ingredients of Bucks County. When guests arrive, it is best to be prepared with drink and appetizer options. During the main course, conversation can often slow down (at least if the food is good enough). So giving ample time for guests to mingle is best.

Some great summer drink/appetizer combos include cheese, fruit and wine or fresh vegetables with a light dip. Summer is when food, especially fruits and veggies, are at their freshest, so take advantage! Start your day with a visit to one of Bucks County's ample Farmer's Markets.

Display your favorite artisan cheese and crackers atop an ornate cheeseboard, such as The Michael Aram Palace Collection, which includes both a Cheese Board with Knife and Cake Stand. The Michael Aram Palace Collection explores, through Michael's eyes, the richness of detail and ornament in palaces throughout the world. As a part-time resident of India since 1989, palace architecture has been a steady source of inspiration and this collection pays tribute to the geometry and complexity of Moghul design. The classically elegant shapes and materials in this collection reflect the arches, finials, carved panels, and ornamentation prevalent in palaces throughout the east.

The Michael Aram Gourd & Vine Collection is a celebration of that symbolism, but moreover, is a portrayal of the quirky, unexpected, almost peculiar shapes for which these fruits are known. Made by using a 17th century process called “repousée”, a French term meaning “to push back”, the pieces in this collection are created with the most advanced and complex handwork techniques available.

Achieve both form and function with the Seaglass Teal, Porcelain Coated Stainless Steel Kitchenware. This enamelware is made of carbon steel coated with a procelain enamel and trimmed in stainless steel. Each piece is truly unique as there will be variations in the shading of colors and pattern formations which are the results of the hand-dipped process. Plus, it's safe to use in the oven, on the stovetop, and in the dishwasher!

Don't Forget the Other Guests – Depending on who you have invited, your guests could request to bring some additional folks along with them. Children and pets can present different challenges for the host. But you're going to be prepared for anything! The most important thing for hosting kids of guests is to make sure they are entertained so that their parents can get some much needed relaxation. Making sure that a variety of toys are available is a must. DJW Home's Fire Truck or Military Police Pedal Cars are safe, fun, and allow kids to move around your yard while their parents relax from a close distance. Plus, these “vintage” style toys are decorative enough to display. Other folks may ask to bring along their dogs. Have water dishes available for the pooch to drink and a toy or two to keep them occupied. DJW Home's Stick Toys for Dogs would be perfect here!

Summer At Home Presented by DJW Home

Did you know that Newtown’s favorite salon, spa, & boutique, David J. Witchell, recently expanded their State Street location to include a new home decor store? At DJW Home, David J. Witchell continues to enhance local lifestyle through a commitment to artistry in luxurious and comfortable surroundings. You’ll find home accents, gifts, tabletops, and more. Shop the DJW home collection here.

–Sponsored–