The entertaining season is almost upon us, and now’s the time to get your deck ready for friends and family. An outdoor area deserves as much attention as any indoor room, so take some extra time and care to get your outdoor space looking its best.

Prepare your outdoors for entertaining with our 6 steps.

1. Prep your deck

If you’re planning to host this season, getting your deck al fresco-ready is step number one. Rain, hail or harsh sunlight has likely weathered your deck, so a recoat will be in order.

Coating your deck has never been simpler with our Aquadeck. Aquadeck can be used over any existing oil or water-based coating*, meaning less time sanding and more time entertaining. It lasts 2x longer than traditional oil-based decking oils, too, so your deck will look fresh for seasons to come.

Check out Aquadeck to learn more and find out how to coat your deck depending on the timber’s condition.

*Provided the existing coating is at least 30 days old and in good condition. For further information, visit https://www.cabots.co.nz/product/cabots-aquadeck

2. Go green

If your outdoor space is looking a little bare, why not greenify your deck by bringing in flowers and foliage? Choosing the right plants for your space doesn’t need to be hard, and there are some failsafe ways to add lush, leafy greenery. Succulents, for instance, are an easy and low-maintenance way to decorate your deck. Needing minimal care or water, an Echeveria or String of Pearls will look great in a hanging pot.

Add a pop of green to your deck with some timber planters. Ferns and perennials like Euphorbia and Lavender all work well in pots and planters, plus they’ll cope as the weather warms. If you’re looking for something taller and more shaded, palms and citrus trees also thrive.

For the avid chef, a functional herb garden is another great option. It’s not only great deck décor, but provides fresh herbs for your outdoor feasts! Herbs that do well in spring and summer include chives, mint, parsley and basil.

3. Sit back and relax

Deck out your deck with stylish seating. Outdoor furniture comes in all different styles — from classic dining sets to comfy chaise lounges. Choose the seating that best suits the size of your deck and your lifestyle. A long timber table with bench seats is perfect to fit family and friends, while a couple of outdoor sofas offer a laid-back feel. You might also want to incorporate some all-weather options, like teak folding chairs, so you can host in rain or shine.

If your furniture features timber, make sure it looks its best and is protected from the elements. Two coats of our Garden Furniture Oil will provide exceptional durability to your outdoor timber seating.

4. Make your patio pop

Give your outdoor spaces the same love you give your indoors by dressing up your deck with cushions and accessories. Pile on the pillows (making sure the fabric can withhold the weather) or layer a few outdoor rugs to create a cosy space.

Adding a splash of colour is a great way to personalise your deck and make it inviting for friends and family. Bold, bright hues or interesting patterns will elevate the space and pair well with a timber deck.

5. Get grilling

No alfresco area is complete without a BBQ set-up. You can turn your outdoor space into a cooking and entertainment hub by incorporating a barbecue area that fits your deck and budget. For a small space, the Weber Baby Q range is the perfect compact choice. If you’re planning on bigger gatherings, the Weber Summit Series is sure to impress guests.

6. Light it up

The right lighting will create ambience and enhance your nighttime gatherings. Opting for solar power lighting is a sustainable and practical choice — and there are so many solar lights to choose from. Illuminate your deck in style by incorporating solar lanterns for a cosy glow, or try festoon lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

When it comes to lighting, make use of your surroundings. If your deck is surrounded by tall trees, string lights from their branches. For something a little bolder, LED curtain lights can create a magical sanctuary.

It's time to bring life back to the deck. With a coat of Aquadeck, a little greenery and the right setup, getting your deck party-ready has never been simpler