Summers are the perfect time to entertain guests and spend time with family in the backyard. Make it an exciting space for entertainment with various lighting options and cast an enchanting spell on your outdoor setting. Try these ideas to keep your party out of the dark and create a distinctive mood.

Image via: Spinnaker Development

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String lighting

Perfect for any occasion, outdoor string lights can add ambiance to any outdoor dining or entertaining setting. While, the most common way to use these lights is to tie them along the railing or up in the tree branches, there is much more you can do with this versatile option. Place them in large lanterns or wine bottles to provide additional lighting to an outdoor gathering place. Another functional yet decorative way to use these lights is to string them around an umbrella to illuminate the outdoor dining table.

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Tiki Torches & Candles

You can never go wrong with candles of different shades and sizes. Place them in glass jars or use floating candles to add an instant ambiance to a casual summer table. If needed, add something additional around the candles or to the table for that extra special feel. I suggest dressing glass candle holders with a decorative fabric or throwing some pebbles around the table. You can also place votive candles in tall glass containers, and tie a flower using matching raffia outside each. Even though, candles and flowers are nothing new, when put together they create a perfect tabletop decoration suitable for relaxed summer entertaining. Alternatively, you can consider using citronella candles as they not only provide adequate lighting, but also help to keep those pesky, unwanted pests away.

Image credit: Jean Mayo

Lanterns

Layering lanterns is a great way to illuminate your outdoor area. Put them on a surface or hang them, lanterns are bound to set the mood. To decorate your dinner table, you can use kerosene lanterns. They are easy to fill and light, and provide the same twinkling glow as candles. To make your alfresco dining stand out, use faux lanterns and hang them by their handles at strategic points in the garden or on the terrace. If you like to live green, consider using hanging solar lanterns. They are not only eco-friendly, but also provide an ultimate dramatic affect as they turn on automatically when the darkness falls.

Image via: Style Me Pretty

Lighting alone can set the mood for entertainment during summertime. Get it right, and your outdoor space would be gorgeous, glowing additional living room, even after the sun goes down.

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