LET’S TAKE IT OUTSIDE
Few things fuel the soul as much as toasting a sunshiny day or warm evening with friends as the sun kisses the horizon – enjoying an outdoor celebration where conversation flows freely, and laughter comes easy. Here’s how to turn your al fresco gathering into a moment to remember.
Create comfort zones
Transform your outdoor space into distinct areas that encourage natural flow and conversation. Set up a welcoming drinks station near the entrance, arrange comfortable seating clusters with throw pillows and blankets, and set up tables for food. For celebrations that linger long after the sun sets, consider creating a cosy lounge zone with outdoor sofas, pouffes, low tables and Persian carpets. Remember to include enough side tables for guests to set down their drinks and plates – comfort is key for encouraging those long, leisurely conversations that make gatherings memorable.
Light up the night
Don’t let darkness cut your party short. Layer your lighting to create a convivial ambience. Fairy lights draped overhead create an instant magical canopy, while hurricane lanterns protect flickering candles from the breeze. Place solar-powered stake lights along pathways and consider adding weatherproof LED uplighting to highlight trees or architectural features. Cluster flameless candles in varying heights on tables for a warm, inviting glow that won’t blow out.
Elevate your beverage game
The right drinks can transform a good gathering into an unforgettable one. Make the Ernie Els Big Easy Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé your star pour – its seashell pink hue and fresh notes of raspberry and strawberry create an instant summer mood. Made in the French Provençal style, this carefree rosé offers the perfect balance of crispness and subtle creaminess that pairs beautifully with outdoor fare. Set up a self-serve station with the rosé chilling in over-sized wine buckets, alongside fruit-infused water dispensers and a selection of non-alcoholic options.
Design a playlist that sets the mood
Music helps create the right atmosphere for your gathering. Start with softer, ambient tracks during arrival, then gradually transition to more upbeat tunes as the evening progresses. You could personalise your soundtrack by asking each guest to RSVP with their favourite current song or artist when you send out the invites. Keep outdoor speakers at a level where guests can easily converse without raising their voices.
Play the board game
For effortless yet stylish outdoor entertaining, nothing beats the versatility of beautifully arranged grazing boards. Transform your outdoor table into a feast for the eyes with an array of curated platters. A classic charcuterie board featuring cured meats, pickles, olives, and whole-grain mustard pairs perfectly with a cheese board showcasing your favourite cheeses, dried fruit and grapes. For coastal flair, arrange a sea-cuterie platter with fresh prawns, oysters, and smoked salmon. End the evening on a sweet note with a dessert grazing board – think bite-sized brownies, milk tarts and macarons, and fresh seasonal fruit with honey drizzle.
Discover more at ernieelswines.com.
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