We’ve been talking a lot about outdoor entertaining lately, and it’s no wonder… It all started with the outdoor room Steve designed for the Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Holiday Showhouse, and now that the weather is finally warming (albeit slowly), it’s time to take those cocktail hours, dinner parties, and relaxed soirees with friends and family outdoors!

But, after the harsh winter we’ve all experienced, your outdoor space may be lacking inspiration. No worries – steve mckenzie’s to the rescue! We have three simple steps to effortlessly transform your outdoor space into an inviting entertaining oasis:

1. Bring your cloth napkins and other table linens outside. Don’t be afraid of a little dirt! The soft texture and pops of color fun linens provide will be SO worth the extra load of laundry. Get creative when looking for new linens to introduce during your outdoor entertaining – simple dish towels become the perfect napkins for casual, outdoor entertaining. And Grandma’s classic, printed tablecloth that’s always seemed too simple for your holiday gatherings? It’ll be the perfect, special statement piece for your next outdoor dinner party!

2. Go green… Yes, even when entertaining outdoors! A smartly placed potted plant, or floral arrangement is welcome in any space – including your outdoor entertaining space. If you have an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, add some luscious green ferns for a breath of fresh air and contrasting texture. Including greenery withIN your outdoor space, is just as important as the greenery and scenery surrounding it.

3. Add comfort and cheer with strategically selected accessories. A few vibrantly colored outdoor pillows will create the warmest welcome your guests could imagine! Who wouldn’t want to curl up and relax on an outdoor chair or sofa accented with the perfect pillow?!? And for those cooler summer nights… Offer your guests a soft throw to warm their laps; the party doesn’t have to end just because the temperature drops a few degrees.

Most of the suggestions we’ve offered up can be achieved with items you already have, and use, indoors. You just have to have no fear when entertaining outdoors, and bring the indoors out to create a truly comfortable environment your guests may never want to leave!