Summer is a great time to get together with friends and family, but planning for a party can take some serious work.  Australian Market Manager for Trex Company, Rod Schiefelbein, has worked in outdoor living for over two decades and can provide tips and trend advice on how Aussies can take away the stress of planning the perfect summer soiree.

Plan a weekend makeover

Impress your guests by giving your deck a “face lift,” replacing old, rotting or warping wood boards with DIY-friendly composite deck boards. A high-performance, low-maintenance composite decking like Trex Lineage features all of the charm and none of the trouble of real wood.  With the importance of time spent outdoors top of mind, it makes sense to opt for a composite deck that not only looks great, but is also sustainable. When you use Trex decking, you won’t have to worry about wine spills or messes because water and soap is all that’s needed to keep your deck looking like new.  

Prep beforehand

Limit the amount of work on the day of the party by cutting up fruits and veggies or by making dessert ahead of time. Set up your outdoor space with the chairs, tables and coolers beforehand so you will only have to worry about setting up the food, drinks and decorations on the day of the event. 

Maximize your space

Just like the inside of your home, establish separate areas for cooking, eating and socializing in your outdoor space. Be sure to have space in between each area for proper traffic flow. Adding a pergola, tall potted plants, weather-proof draperies or an accent wall can help to separate and define areas. 

Add finishing touches

Before the party begins, accessorize your outdoor space with a decorative outdoor area rug, cushions or pillows. For a finishing touch, add colourful seasonal wreathes and flowers.

Set the vibe

Lighting is essential to setting the tone of your party. Avoid florescent lighting and opt for deck lighting that takes sophistication and subtlety to a whole new level. Unlike other lighting systems, Trex Deck Lighting can be installed into a new or existing deck. This energy efficient lighting is dimmable and cool to the touch, making the fixtures safe for young guests or furry friends.