I don’t know about you, but for me hosting friends and family in the summer just hits differently, doesn’t it? There’s something so magical about outdoor entertaining: the sun, a warm breeze, the smell of fresh gardens and the background noise of birds and bugs – the outdoor ambiance is next level. But as with entertaining at any time of the year, I want it to also be as easy and effortless as possible.
I’ve pulled together five of my favourite summer accessories that make hosting a breeze and level up your outdoor dining space. Not only will your guests have a great time, they’ll also crown you the ultimate summer host.
Invest in your tablescape.
Finding dinnerware that’s both stylish and practical can be a challenge. Outdoor dining demands durability and affordability, but that shouldn’t mean sacrificing style. The KSP Viva Collection is your answer. Whether you opt to keep things neutral or want to add pattern and personality to your table – this collection has you covered. It’s break-resistant and dishwasher safe, meaning you can spend more time and energy socializing with your guests and less time worrying about clean-up.
Complete the look with matching placemats. My personal favourite is the Harman ‘Urban Two-Tone’ vinyl placemats for a pop of colour and texture. Their round shape is the perfect backdrop to your dinnerware and they are so easy to wipe clean.
Add in a beverage dispenser.
Nothing elevates an outdoor event like a beautiful glass beverage dispenser. Even water will look chic served using the Oldtyme Beverage Dispenser. With a beautiful chalkboard tag, and sturdy metal stand, set-up is so quick and easy, you’ll have drinks flowing in no time. The classic glass pitcher features a wide-mouth opening which makes filling and refilling a breeze, while the twist-on lid keeps drinks fresh and prevents spills. The easy-pour spout boasts a drip-proof rubberized seal and activates with a simple twist.
Complete your beverage and bar setup with the clear KSP Gatsby Acrylic D.O.F. glasses. Their elegant ribbed design mimics real glass, but without the risk of shattering, making them perfect for outdoor use.
Bring the inside out.
Anchor your dining area and elevate your space with an outdoor rug. The indoor-outdoor feel is so luxe, while adding a cozy touch. I love the fresh summer look and feel of the Outdoor All Season Mat in ‘Tile Braga’. Made of high-quality polypropylene straws, tightly woven together, this mat is the ultimate in durability and comfort. It’s also reversible, giving you more flexibility with your style. You – and your guests! – are sure to love it.
Keep pests at bay.
If there’s one thing you don’t want when you’re entertaining outdoors, it’s bugs. The ‘Viva’ Decal Citronella Candle is my go-to for brightening up any outdoor space while successfully repelling mosquitoes and other bugs. Keep pesky flies and other insects away from your food and drinks with the Garden Essentials Fly Repellent Fan. This battery-operated fan is the perfect solution for deterring bugs from landing in the vicinity. Your friends and family will appreciate the extra touch – and you can enjoy yourself knowing they won’t be bugged. Literally.
Don’t forget the extras!
Summer entertaining screams corn and watermelon – a deliciously perfect combo! And with the right tools in hand, you can serve up both without any hassle. My kids often ask to have the kernels cut off the cob and I’m quick to reach for my OXO Good Grips Corn Peeler. I love this tool with its specially designed blade that quickly and safely removes kernels, leaving the cobs behind. Perfect for kids, but also guests who would prefer not to eat with their hands!
I also highly recommend The Luciano ‘Perfect’ Watermelon Knife. It’s honestly a total game-changer! It makes slicing watermelon or any other fruit a breeze and most importantly, is safe to use.
Impress your guests from start to finish with Kitchen Stuff Plus’ wide array of outdoor entertaining tools and decor. Shop now at and take your hosting to the next level this summer!
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Jenny recently moved from Toronto to a Country House in Meaford, Ontario with her husband and two children. She is the founder of Little Love Lifestyle, a fun and easy lifestyle blog for mamas, featuring family recipes, kid’s lunch ideas, casual mom style, and relaxed country living decor.
Follow along on Jenny’s Instagram feed (@jenniferkalynuik), where she shares her love for life in the country, her home renovation journey, yummy recipes, and style tips to help mamas feel more ‘put-together’ amidst the chaos of motherhood.
