Summer's Here -- Outdoor Dining #AlFrescoAtLast

This post is sponsored by Wayfair.ca. As a member of Wayfair's Homemakers Program, I receive compensation in order to write a feature. As always, all the opinions expressed on my blog are my own.

There's something special about eating outdoors -- al fresco. Whether it's a restaurant patio or my own backyard, there's a certain comfort in enjoying your natural surroundings while enjoying a meal. Maybe it's the fresh air, the fact that as Canadians we've been cooped up inside for months, or the warm sunshine on your face. Whatever the reason, I just love dining outside. Minus the bugs. I don't like the bugs. Anyhow, I digress.

When I was a kid, dining outdoors was so rare, it was a treat. I remember having to haul out all the dishes and cutlery outside so we could sit down to eat. But dining al fresco doesn't have to be a big ordeal and it certainly isn't at my house. We try and eat outside whenever we can -- weeknights included. It's become our new summer normal. 

Here's the thing: we don't have a table. No table? No problem! And, we have two kids. Again, not an issue. There are so many shops and online retailers like Wayfair.ca that sell the most exquisite Outdoor Dining products that are easy to use and affordable, too.

A few years back, we swapped our patio table and chairs for this beautiful couch and ottoman and it was one of the best decisions we made.When the kids are playing, we can lounge, relax, hang out, and eat!

This year, we wanted to give our little outdoor family room a makeover. My inspiration was the beach and the colour turquoise. I just love turquoise waters when I'm on vacation, and that was the starting point for this decor project. The carpet is easy on the eyes and functional -- not only does it prevent weeds from growing through the patio stones, it saves the tootsies from being burned in the afternoon sun.

To create the dining table, I simply threw a round boho scarf on the ottoman. A tablecloth would work too, but I just love all the various shades of blues in this scarf, and it translates well with the beachy theme. 

And then it was time to infuse some colour. Having two kids under 5, there's no way I'm risking breakables outside. Let's be real: adults with alcohol aren't much better. 

Start a collection of beautiful, melamine or shatterproof tableware. And don't be afraid to mix and match patterns and style. I added some bright lemony yellows, orange, and one of my favourite accessories of the year -- the pineapple. 

I literally had to clink each piece to confirm it wasn't glass. That's how good they are. 

Layer them, stack them, pass them out, drop them, stick them in the dishwasher. There's no fuss; outdoor dining doesn't have to be formal, but it does have to be fun.

And then all you have to do is sit back, and enjoy your surroundings -- a well manicured garden, your kids playing, the smell of the BBQ in the distance. Wait, who's cooking?!

Wanna give your backyard dining a little pop? Visit Wayfair for literally hundreds of options for outdoor dining, serving and entertaining. Cheers to dining #AlFrescoAtLast!