Updated May 2021
We know it’s been a stressful year for everyone and SaskTel is committed to ensuring customers have access to the communication services they need during this challenging time. Only with SaskTel do customers have the support of waived data overages and, as always, access to unlimited internet and complimentary TV channels until June 30. Enjoy this promotion as you spend time researching ways to create the perfect backyard that you will never want to leave.

When you’re spending long, hot days in the yard, it’s important to create your own outdoor oasis. With restrictions starting to loosen up, why not take advantage of getting your backyard ready for a covid-friendly gathering. There are endless ways to amp up your living space for every budget type, whether you’re more of a DIYer or someone who likes the convenience of buying off the shelf. Here are some great ways to make your outdoor living space the place to be this summer.

Create an outdoor living room.
There are lots of options on Wayfair for patio furniture that will fit every budget type. You can mix-and-match different fabric designs and colours, frame materials, and greenery to create a perfectly quaint, bohemian living space. Try to do something different outdoors than what you have inside your house. Is your indoor living room missing a sectional? Take advantage of the space you have outdoors, and give yourself your dream living room.

Maybe new patio furniture isn’t within your reach. but Have you ever thought about creating your own for cheaper? Buy some trendy tropical cushions and build your custom furniture to fit. Your local shops may be getting rid of pallets you can upcycle. With nice cushions, mismatched pillows, and some cozy throw blankets, no one will know that your outdoor living room was created on a budget.

Set the table. Get Your Space Ready for Guests
With private outdoor gatherings being allowed this summer, it’s best to recognize and respect everyone’s personal comfort level with socializing. Encourage your guests to take any measure they desire to feel more comfortable during your party. A good start would be spacing your furniture 6 feet apart, having lysol wipes/hand sanitizer readily available and communicating to your guests that masks are supported.

Whether you’re planning an elegant outdoor dinner party, or hosting a casual barbecue, having some melamine plates and acrylic glasses in your outdoor space will help bring the bohemian vibes. Tin beverage tubs set out with ice so everyone can keep their bevvies cold is a great idea, too.

A covid-friendly way to set up the dinner portion of the evening would be creating personal-sized meals and snacks. Using reusable bowl covers is a perfect way to keep everything sealed away from bugs until you’re ready to dig in. Speaking of bugs—citronella candles are an ideal way to create a nice ambiance while keeping the bugs at bay.

Create good vibes.
Every gathering needs good vibes. Get your guests into the right mood by playing some chill music. Bluetooth speakers are a necessity for any backyard party. Cue it up with our Ultimate Summer Playlist and you’ll have yourself the recipe for a good time.

As the sun goes down, you’re going to want to make sure your outdoor space is appropriately lit. There are several charming and inexpensive ways to illuminate your outdoor space. Fairy lights, lanterns, and solar lights all cast a dreamy hue over your yard at night. These classic and stylish string lights give off that cozy and warm glow, all while looking cool and inviting.

If you think your guests might get cold into the evening, keep a basket of blankets out. If you’re lucky enough to have a firepit, after dinner is the perfect time to get it going. You can even get a few cast-iron bush pie makers and make some filling for your guests to DIY their own desserts. Saskatoon berry bush pies are a great way to end a meal!

End the night with a movie or the Big Game
It’s pretty simple to impress your guests by turning your backyard into a drive-in movie theatre to end the night. Hang a white sheet from the side of your house or garage and get a WiFi capable projector. Whether you’re watching a movie or you’re cheering on the Riders, maxTV Stream is your ticket to live TV, YouTube, and Netflix. Creating a cozy space for your guests to relax after a great meal is where it’s at. After following these tips, you’ll definitely have the yard your friends will want to hang out in.

What’s your favourite way to enjoy your outdoor space? Let us know below!