This weekend I was invited to a master class on organization for summertime and outdoor entertaining with Neat Method and Serena & Lily.
I learned a lot of practical and simple tips for tidying up your outside space, so thought I would share them with you!
Since Ashley’s backyard was designed like a DREAM, I linked everything for you below in case you are in the market.
Serena & Lily Memorial Day Sale
Keep in mind – Serena & Lily’s upcoming Memorial Day Sale (usually 20% off EVERYTHING), is coming this weekend. So be sure to take advantage of the great savings if you see something you like.
Event Recap
The event was held at the Neat Method co-founder and organizing expert Ashley Murphy’s home in Hinsdale. Allyson McGrath, design expert from Serena & Lily, flew in from Connecticut to co-host the master class.
The guests consisted of local interior designers, bloggers, Neat Method clients and some of Ashley’s personal friends. It felt so nice to see familiar faces and meet new ones!
From Left To Right: Doreen of Art of Everyday Living – Ulla Johnson Dress // Julie of Small Door Design – Juliet Dress // Reem of Reem Design {sadly could not source her darling smocked top // Little ‘Ol Me – dress by Rebecca Taylor {old but lots here} Alaina of co-founder of The Everygirl – sadly couldn’t find her dress either!
Since this was pretty much everyone’s first event since the pandemic, everyone brought their A-Game with their attire. I tried to source everyone’s look (unfortunately I couldn’t find everyone’s), so linked them below if you like what they’re wearing.
So without further ado, here’s what I learned!
9 Summer Spruce Up Tips For Your Outdoor Space
- Teak comes back to it’s original color with a Scotch-Brit pad.
- Keep your space clutter free! Store and hide toys, pool floats, tools, blankets, pillows, cushions for lounge chairs and furniture covers with weather friendly baskets. Can double as outdoor trashcan for parties.
- Label, label, label. Labeling keeps items in one spot and prevents everything from being strewn about. No more not knowing where things are!
- To clean pollen off of wicker and patio furniture, use a strong hose for cleaning. Allyson McGrath, design expert from Serena & Lily, recommends any Amazon magic hose wand.
- Outdoor fire pits are every husbands dream but they aren’t always the most attractive. Allyson and Ashley gave TWO great ideas! ONE: Circle four amazing chairs around it to transform the space. TWO: You can also have a custom marble slab made to pop over the top. Use as a table when not in use. GENIUS.
- Rugs ground and define the space. Use them!
- Outdoor rug pads help keep rugs in place and also help drain them after rain or spraying them down with the hose.
- Your outdoor space is an extension of your home. So bust out your good China and go big!
- How to make guests comfortable. There are usually two main factors to keep in mind: Guests are either hot or cold AND BUGS. Address these two inconveniences with fire tables, blankets, cold drinks, citronella candles, bug spray, yard treatments, umbrellas, etc.
