Whip your alfresco space into shape for an Australia Day BBQ spectacular!
Aussie, Aussie, Aussie! Oi Oi Oi! If you’re feeling patriotic like we are, it’s time to bust out the eskies, pop on a cork hat, string up some flags and Australian paraphernalia, and fire up the barbie!
But what else should you consider when hosting an Oz Day soiree at your place? Let’s look at what makes a perfect outdoor entertaining area in the lead up to the public holiday, celebrating all things Aussie, on January 26, 2022.
1. Table Talk
Create an inviting alfresco space by incorporating both comfort and style. Start by making sure your outdoor table setting is large enough to accommodate all your guests and everyone has a chair to sit on. For added comfort add some colourful outdoor cushions to the mix. If you don’t have an outdoor table setting, perhaps some comfy outdoor sofas with a coffee table for food will do the trick. Scatter some hurricane lamps around your table or in corners of the outdoor area and fill with battery-operated candles for a safe yet effective glow. Providing a comfy, colourful and ambient scenario will set the scene for a successful party.
2. DIY Decorations
Pick up a couple of Australian flags from Bunnings or your local dollar store and pin up one indoors and the other outside to remind guests why they’re celebrating. Decorate your table in red, white and blue or green and gold to team with the Australia Day theme too. Lay down a table cloth in these shades or a simple white one and use fresh fruit such as a bowl of red apples or green limes to add a pop of colour with natural flair.
3. Home Zones
Ensure guests are aware of the areas of the home they’re welcome to be in and if any areas are off-limits. Also let them know how to best access the bathroom and make sure you add some decorations in there too, to really set the mood.
An open-plan layout is perfect for entertaining, flowing seamlessly from indoor to outdoor. For example, guests can enjoy drinks and nibblies inside at your island bench in the kitchen before heading out to the alfresco space for the BBQ main event.
4. Make a Splash
Being peak summertime in Australia, if you have a backyard pool, it’s likely to be popular with guests wanting to cool off. Make sure you have plenty of towels on standby to avoid slippery situations. Large-format slip-resistant outdoor tiles will not only look stylish but provide safety.
Guests will also appreciate if you’ve gone to the effort to clean your pool ready for entertaining. A sparkling clean pool free from leaves will be a welcome sight.
5. Luxurious Landscaping
Don’t underestimate the power of greenery and plants to your outdoor area. Tidy and trim your potted plants and add smaller pots to the table for extra greenery. If you have a leaf blower, clear the decks, or simply sweep outdoor tiles and paved areas to make way for a fresh party slate. If you’re short on time, perhaps it’s worth enlisting the help of a professional gardener to have your alfresco area in tip-top shape! Go for gold with green!
6. Guest of Honour
On Australia Day, your backyard barbecue should be treated with the utmost respect. Even more so than usual! Whether you have an integrated barbecue or a standalone one, make sure you dust it off and prime it with olive oil, ready to throw down some sausages, lamb chops or seafood. And if you don’t have a barbecue, utilize public barbecues in your local park or simply pan fry your lunch at home, and dine alfresco at the very least!
Once your nearest and dearest have arrived, turn up the tunes, let the sizzle fly and toast this great country of ours! Happy Australia Day to all from Coral Homes!
To find out more about building your dream home, complete with a party-ready outdoor area, visit coralhomes.com.au/home-designs
