So, I was chatting with Luke the other day – he’s a proper outdoor entertaining guru, always hosting amazing garden parties and BBQs. We were chewing the fat about articles for the site – you know, anything to do with home entertaining, appealing to everyone from toddlers to grandparents. And of course, we got onto the subject of back gardens, and how to really make the most of them, especially in summer. He’s a firm believer in extending the fun way past sunset, transforming a daytime BBQ into a magical evening experience. And I have to say, he’s converted me. Let me tell you all about it.
“It’s all about the transition,” Luke said, swirling his drink. “You can’t just let the energy dip when the sun goes down. It needs a seamless flow, from sizzle to serenity.” He explained how key elements like lighting, warmth, and evening activities work together to keep the good times rolling.
Let there be light! (And Atmosphere)
First things first, lighting. Forget harsh floodlights, think ambiance. Luke swears by string lights. “Festoon lights strung across the patio, fairy lights woven through the trees – they instantly create a magical vibe.” He also loves lanterns, both traditional and solar-powered. Scattering them around the garden paths and on tables adds a warm, inviting glow. For something a bit more substantial, consider a fire pit. Not only does it provide light, but it also acts as a focal point and a source of heat. Just make sure you’ve got safety sorted: a fire pit screen and a bucket of water are must-haves.
Keeping Cosy as the Temperature Drops
Speaking of heat, British summers are famously… unpredictable. So, you’ve got to be prepared for a chill. Outdoor heaters are a fantastic option if you want to keep everyone toasty without relying solely on the fire pit. There are freestanding gas or electric heaters that can be strategically placed around the seating area. If you don’t want to invest in that straight away, Luke’s low-cost trick is piles of blankets. “I keep a basket full of cosy blankets – throws, fleece blankets, even old quilts – near the seating area. People can grab one if they get chilly. It’s like a comforting hug!” And don’t forget the cushions! Plenty of soft cushions make garden furniture feel extra inviting.
Evening Entertainment: Beyond the Burgers
Once the BBQ is done, the real fun begins. Luke is a big fan of activities that cater to different age groups. “For the little ones, you can’t beat glow sticks and sparklers (with supervision, of course!).” He also suggests setting up an outdoor movie projector. “Projecting a classic film onto a white sheet or the side of the house is always a hit. Get some popcorn and blankets, and it’s like a drive-in cinema in your back garden.” Stargazing is another excellent option, especially if you live in an area with low light pollution. A simple astronomy app can help identify constellations. Or, for something more low-key, storytelling around the fire pit is always a winner. Get everyone to share a funny anecdote or a spooky tale.
Luke also shared that he sometimes organises garden games that continue after sunset, he will provide little torches for each of the guests, he does this for all ages groups but obviously this needs to be tailored accordingly. Charades, board games or even something as simple as telling funny stories, all enhanced with a little glow stick for each person involved.
The Orangery Advantage
Now, here’s where an orangery comes into play. Luke has one and he says it’s a game-changer for seamless indoor-outdoor living. “An orangery provides a comfortable transition space between the house and the garden. If it gets too chilly or the rain starts, you can simply move the party indoors without losing that garden vibe. You can keep the doors open, letting the music and laughter flow between the spaces.” He also points out that an orangery can act as a great staging area for food and drinks, keeping everything organised and accessible. Plus, it provides shelter for those who might need a break from the elements, particularly the elderly.
Bringing it all together
Creating a backyard oasis that transitions seamlessly from day to night isn’t about breaking the bank. It’s about thoughtful planning and a little bit of creativity. Use lighting to create ambiance, provide warmth to keep everyone cosy, and plan activities that cater to a range of ages and interests. And if you have an orangery, use it to its full potential as a flexible and comfortable transition space. By focusing on these key elements, you can transform your backyard BBQ into an unforgettable evening experience, extending the summer fun long after the sun sets.
