![out door dining with various fruits, cheeses and crackers on a wooden board with friends eating it. A dining area is essential when getting your garden ready for summer](https://i0.wp.com/www.lillaloves.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/barbecue-bbq-berries-1667580.jpg?fit=1440%2C2160&ssl=1)
The weather is due to be hotting up in the next few weeks. If you’ve got a garden, you’re one of the lucky ones. Get ready for boozy evenings in the sun and BBQs. Or just your own sanctuary for a relaxing sunbathe and read it’s time to get your garden ready.
Alfresco Dining – get your garden ready
![Cosy garden table and bench with laid with mats, matching cushions and wine . Get your garden ready to entertain](https://i1.wp.com/www.lillaloves.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/backyard-bench-blurred-background-1843647.jpg?fit=1440%2C960&ssl=1)
If you love to entertain, or like to take advantage of the long sunny evenings, the first thing you need is a cosy dining set up. Instead of buying spanking new furniture, why not re- varnish or paint your current set up? It’s incredible how transformative a paint job can be.
Add some finishing touches to your al fresco dining area by picking up garden cushions and tableware. I have reusable plastic plates and fancy plastic wine glasses (dishwasher friendly) that I use outside – that way when the wind blows, or the wine flows there is no risk of breakage.
Why not treat yourself to a gardening gift?
Star light, not so bright
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As the evening sun starts to fade, lighting is a must have. Unless you like to sit in the dark! It doesn’t have to be expensive – battery or solar powered lights are a quick and easy addition. They can be really cute – whether it’s a wall of fairy lights or flamingos.
Another idea is to get a cosy fire pit or chimnea – they provide good mood lighting, warmth for when it starts to get chilly. And you can make s’mores or other tasty fireside treats.
Growing, pruning and gifting
![](https://i0.wp.com/www.lillaloves.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/bucket-container-flora-1660533.jpg?fit=1440%2C2156&ssl=1)
Gardens can take years to cultivate. Plants acquired over time, years to mature, or climb. So why not ask for Gardening gifts were possible. Whether it’s pots for a herb garden, hydrangeas, or even gardening tools, so that you can prune your roses?
Do you have a particular recipe you like to share when you’re entertaining in your garden? Share it below – I’m always looking for inspiration.
Love Lilla xx