Outdoor Décor
Our backyards became a place of refuge over the last year, and current trends for decorating your outdoor space reflect the atmosphere many have built since then. Create a cozy space for yourself and your closest friends with some key features:
- Outdoor lighting – You don’t want the party to end when the sun goes down, so pay close attention to your outdoor lighting. You can go with something simple like string lights and naked bulbs, or go with a more robust yard lighting scheme that brightens your deck or patio, the garden and the walkways around the yard.
- Firepit – A firepit is the perfect focal point for a backyard get-together, and it allows you to start enjoying your outdoor space earlier in the year and keep going well into the fall.
- Fresh outdoor furniture – Revamp your outdoor furniture setting by adding a coat of paint in bold hues to match your landscape. Toss some throw pillows on your seating to instantly brighten the look and bring the whole décor scheme together.
- Tablescape – To best entertain outdoors, create a welcoming table with a colorful table runner and some vases with fresh-picked flowers. If you’re feeling ambitious, add coordinated place settings for a feast your friends won’t forget.
Activities for Everyone
At your next gathering, play fun games that let everyone get in on the action.
For kids (and adults who love to have fun) there are plenty of campfire games to play around your firepit, like charades. For adults who love a little friendly competition, games like volleyball (if you have the space), cornhole and giant board games like Tic-Tac-Toe or Jenga are always great for a laugh.
The Perfect Menu
You can’t entertain outdoors without the food, so don’t forget to plan out your menu. From appetizers and cocktails all the way to dessert, invite new and nutritious dishes into the mix that will impress even the most discerning palates with plenty of bright summer flavors. Try some of these great options at your next gathering:
- Nutty Colada: For a perfectly refreshing cocktail to kick off your gathering, try this take on a classic piña colada that gets a little extra creaminess from walnut milk. This recipe can easily be made into a mocktail.
Strawberry, Cucumber & Pearl Couscous Salad: Brighten up any summer gathering with this beautiful plant-based side-dish. The refreshing strawberries and crunchy cucumbers will make for a delightful taste in every bite.
Mango Summer Rolls with Walnut Ginger Dipping Sauce: The unique qualities of earthy walnuts, hot ginger, savory soy sauce and sweet maple syrup combine for a surprising flavor profile your friends won’t expect but can’t help but love.
Walnut and Mushroom Teriyaki Burgers: Introduce your guests to the ultimate in meatless meals with this juicy, savory burger. With the array of traditional burger spices, this dish makes for the perfect partner for any classic burger topping.
California Walnut Campfire S’mores: This deconstructed take on the famous dessert will be a fan favorite among kids and adults alike. Besides the three s’mores mainstays, a little bit of sea salt and the nice crunch of walnuts create a mess-free treat your guests will devour.
Entertain outdoors with some help from California walnuts
Start planning your incredible backyard party today with the help of delicious recipes and tips.
