Home and Garden

Summer is over but there are still some great days head this fall, and if you don’t stop to enjoy it, you just might miss it. There’s no better time to enjoy the sunshine and fine weather, and what better way to do it than inviting friends and loved ones over to enjoy your big backyard? Over the last year and a half, there’s been a huge movement of homebuyers leaving the city for greener pastures. Custom home builders in Niagara Blythwood Homes have reported an influx of homebuyers from nearby Toronto looking for homes in the country. Those buyers are seeking more space rather than go the typical route of downsizing, plus they want an escape from the traffic, noise, and pollution that often comes with city living. If you’re someone who’s recently traded city life for country living, though, you might be starting to miss friends and family in the city you left behind. With these 5 tips, you can transform your backyard into the social hub of the season when you invite them all over. #1 Barbecue Dinner Hosting outdoors means you can get dinner ready without having to part company. Make dinner plans on the grill and treat friends and family to a barbecue feast. Barbecuing is one of the lightest ways to prepare meat, too, and it can be a surprisingly healthy way to cook. Stick to lean meats like skinless poultry, steaks, and pork chops. For something a little different, you can also go with game meats like rabbit and quail. #2 Prepare for Any Weather There’s nothing more disappointing than having plans rained out – or when sitting right in the hot sun becomes unbearable. Prepare your backyard for any events by adding shelter and shade so that when you have guests over, you’re ready. Don’t let the weather get in the way of your plans. #3 Keep It Clean Keeping up with regular maintenance will make sure it’s always ready for guests. It doesn’t have to be a full-time job if you tackle little tasks regularly. Summer is the season you’ll want to remove weeds before they seed and sprout up everywhere next year. You can also minimize the damage to the grass in high-traffic areas by using stepping stones where you know people tend to walk – i.e., from the back door to your patio furniture or the barbecue and back. #4 Patio Furniture You Love If you’re planning on spending an afternoon or evening out in the backyard, it helps to have comfy, stylish furniture where everyone can settle in. You’ll need to elevate your décor a notch above plastic chairs to make everyone feel comfortable and at home. #5 Taste Something Different Want to make your backyard event memorable? Try something new to taste, such as a bottle of wine from a local vineyard or a signature cocktail (or mocktail). You don’t have to think too hard about it, as it’s the company that really matters, but it can be a great way to liven things up from the usual.