Old Man Winter may not be welcome… but don’t let his chilly demeanor chase you indoors. Here are five elements that will help you create a warm outdoor setting and chase away the chill all season long.
1.
A Fire Table or Fire Pit
Propane-powered fire pits and tables deliver enough heat to warm everyone gathered around, with the added perk of providing a natural focal point for your outdoor seating area. Some styles even offer tabletop space to double as a coffee table. Or if roasting marshmallows is on the agenda, wood-burning fire pits make it easy to stoke up a crackling blaze.
2.
A Patio Heater
Patio heaters are a versatile option for providing a blanket of radiant or infrared heat. With a smaller footprint than fire pits or tables, they’re easy to integrate into any outdoor space. Many styles are wheeled for portability, and, unlike fire tables and pits, they’re safe to use on decks.
3.
Lighting
Once you’ve warmed the air, consider warming the mood with outdoor lighting. Sparkling string lights, meteor lights, an outdoor chandelier and groupings of lanterns or candles help ground a space and provide enough light to make it feel inviting and relaxing after dark.
4.
Warm Refreshments
When the temperatures outside your little retreat are frightful, warm treats are all the more delightful. Serve up s’mores on break-resistant melamine plates, or keep appetizers toasty on a Hot/Cold Stainless Steel Tray. Set up a crowd-pleasing hot cocoa station, or pull out a portable pizza oven to make dinner the main event.
5.
Cozy Layers
Even if your hand is wrapped around a hot mug and the air is warm enough that you can’t see your breath, cuddling beneath a blanket or throw makes the moment feel even cozier. Grab enough layers for everyone, and snuggle up for an outdoor movie or stargazing.
When you can stay warm and stay outdoors, Old Man Winter just might feel like a welcome guest this year.
Show us your winter-ready outdoor space! Follow @frontgate and tag your photos with #frontgate.
