The Garden Gathering
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Time to read 5 min
TLL's Gathering Edit
A curated guide to outdoor living and effortless entertaining. This season, we’re bringing the indoors out with elevated design ideas that transform your garden, patio, or terrace into a luxe escape. Whether you’re hosting sunset dinners or morning coffee gatherings, every detail is designed to turn your outdoor space into a livable extension of your home.
I love entertaining outdoors and making everyday moments feel special—especially when I'm surrounded by family and friends. There’s truly nothing better than great company, laughter-filled conversations, delicious food, and setting the perfect ambiance to bring it all together. I believe you don’t need to overcomplicate it—just a few thoughtful touches can totally transform your table and the mood.Â
I always start with a beautiful table runner or placemats, then layer in fresh flowers in low vases that match the vibe of the occasion. It’s simple, affordable, and instantly makes the space feel intentional.
Some of my favorite go-to pieces? Linen napkins and napkin rings always add a polished feel, and I love pulling out the pretty things—like cheese boards for grazing, champagne coupe glasses for toasts, and outdoor wine glasses when we’re dining under the stars. For something a little stronger, I set out our favorite whisky glasses with a crafted cocktail or two. Add some matching plates and a beautiful pitcher for water or sangria, and you’ve got a setup that feels elegant but still easy. It’s all about layering love into the little details.
Create a welcoming space that invites connection, comfort, and the joy of entertaining under the sun or stars!
Cheers!
Set Your Space
Where Conversations Begin
For your outdoor entertaining space choose seating for 4 to 8 guests based on your space, anchoring the area with a rug for added comfort and style. Layer in decorative cushions, and place a table at the center—with side tables if space allows. For layout, consider two or four club chairs or sofas facing each other, with one or two club chairs at each end. The goal is to create an intimate, welcoming setting that instantly invites guests to relax and connect.
Gathered Around the Table
There’s something magical about dining outdoors under the open sky—where good food, fresh air, and ambient lighting come together to create unforgettable moments. Whether you're hosting a casual brunch, a BBQ, or an elegant dinner party, outdoor entertaining is all about effortless style and comfort. Set the mood with lighting, plush seating, and a beautifully styled table topped with natural textures and seasonal touches. Every detail should invite your guests to linger, laugh, and savor the moment.
The Lifestyle Lab
Tile that makes your outdoor spaces truly unforgettable
Outdoor tile is the secret ingredient to turning your backyard into a true extension of your home. Whether you're tiling around a sparkling pool, creating a cozy fireplace focal point, lining walkways, or adding a stunning backsplash to your BBQ area, the right tile adds personality, polish, and lasting durability.Â
With bold patterns or textures that make a statement, and finishes that can handle the elements, tile brings beauty and function together effortlessly.
More than just a design detail, outdoor tile helps define spaces, set the mood, and make entertaining outside feel just as stylish as hosting indoors.Â
Imagine sipping cocktails by a tiled fireplace, grilling in front of a gorgeous mosaic backsplash, or welcoming guests with an artfully tiled path that leads to your patio. With endless options to suit your style, outdoor tile makes your space come alive—inviting, inspired, and ready for memorable moments under the sun or stars.
NEW Just In Tile We LOVE!!
Entertaining isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a space where everyone feels at home.
Must Have Rugs For Your Outdoor Space
The Art Of The Outdoor Table
Setting the perfect outdoor table is about creating an atmosphere that invites connection, and sparks conversation at every gathering.Â
Whether you're hosting a casual brunch or a formal dinner party, the details you choose help set the mood. A beautifully draped table runner, combined with placemats adds texture and warmth, while elegant linen napkins and stylish napkin rings show your guests they’re part of something special.Â
These finishing touches don’t just enhance your table—they tell a story, one of thoughtfulness, care, and design.
The right pieces can also shift a simple meal into a memorable experience. Picture pouring chilled rosĂ© into delicate outdoor wine glasses or toasting with vintage-inspired champagne coupe glasses at golden hour. Serve your signature cocktail in timeless whisky glasses, pass around drinks in hand-thrown pitchers, and let cheese boards , artisan plates, and coordinating tableware take center stage.Â
Find a place indoors or outdoors to set up the food your serving that your guests can get to on their own easily. I highly suggest setting up a separate area for your bar with all the mixers and drinks that your guests can pour themselves. Making a pitcher of Sangria or Aperol Spritz is also an easy drink hack that keeps everyone wanting more. I do place a couple of wine bottles on the table just to have a pourable drink close by.
When the setting is intentional, every bite and sip feels like a celebration—whether you're dining indoors or under the stars.
Vinglace Wine Chiller
Our Fave Table Settings
Glassware Must Have's
Set the Mood
HAPPY ENTERTAINING!
Sandra Mccullough
A visionary designer, real estate expert, and wellness entrepreneur based in Arizona. As a co-founder of The Lifestyle Lab, she merges timeless design with intentional living. Sandra has helped countless clients create homes that are both beautiful and soul-aligned.
A creative force and podcast host, Sandra leads conversations on design, wellness, and modern living on TLL Talk. Her work is rooted in her values: family, gratitude, healing, and legacy—and her mission is to inspire others to build lives and spaces they love from the inside out.
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