Monthly Archives: September 2019

Close up of a table with a veggie kebab and wine glass and bottle.

How to Host the Perfect Dinner Party on Your Deck

Fall is almost here and the best way to welcome the new season is to host a magical dinner on your custom deck. The onset of autumn in Northern Virginia is stunning with colorful leaves just starting to fall and a subtle chill in the air. Why not enjoy the nice weather and beautiful scenery with friends and family around a beautifully set table? We’ve compiled a list of preparation tips, fall-inspired décor, and food recommendations to help you throw the best party possible.

Cleaning

The first step in party prep is cleaning the area you’re going to be hosting in. Hose off your deck to blast away any debris. Once your deck is sparkling, make sure your table and chairs are dusted and polished as well.

Food Prep

A fall menu calls for grilled veggie kababs, fragrant steaks, a bottle of rich, red wine, and a pumpkin pie. Print out a menu for your guests for a charismatic addition. If you have an outdoor kitchen, prepare the food outside so you can be an involved host. Let the aroma of the delicious food you’re whipping up float to your guests while they’re enjoying a glass of wine.

Décor

Get creative with your table setting. Lay down a patterned tablecloth and break out your nice cutlery and plates. Make rustic nameplates for a charming touch. Gather some patterned throw pillows and perhaps bring indoor plants outside for added greenery.

Seating

Having enough seating for your guests is a must. To skip the stress, make sure there are more than enough options. Feel free to bring your interior furniture outdoors if the weather is permitting and move a small couch to your deck to create a relaxed environment. Use removable cushions for lawn or fold-up chairs without padding to make sure your guests are comfortable all night long.

Lighting

To create a beautiful ambiance, hang a strand of twinkly lights over the dining area. If you’re looking for more permanent, mood lighting, we offer many options like pathway, patio and deck lights. Outdoor lighting will create a sense of warmth and romance. Not to mention, lighting will allow your guests to enjoy your deck far past sunset.

Host an elegant dinner party to welcome the season on your custom Fairfax deck. Contact us today to receive a free consultation!

A deck with bright orange accents and a fire pit.

Transition your Outdoor Space from Summer to Fall

Although fall isn’t quite in full swing yet, it’s never too early to start transitioning your outdoor décor. You and your family will spend a lot of time on your custom Fairfax deck this September enjoying the start of crisp temperatures and colorful, falling leaves. Make your space harmonious with Mother Nature by adding warm tones, scents, and textures reminiscent of the season.

We’ve put together a list of simple design elements that will transition your deck into fall and winter seamlessly.

Create a color story

Summer means bright, splashy colors like neon yellows and nautical blues. Fall calls for less loud colors, but this doesn’t necessarily mean neutrals. If you enjoy yellows and blues, there are ways to bring these hues with you this season. Incorporate a more muted, mustard yellow and a deep, navy blue to create a sense of warmth. Whatever color story you choose, make sure it stays consistent throughout the space.

Swap out your furniture

Before the wet Northern Virginia weather infiltrates your yard, swap your plush, summer furniture for durable and water-resistant furniture. However, you don’t have to sacrifice style and comfort. Add removable seat cushions to provide padding, create design interest and they won’t get ruined after it rains. If you’re considering a deck remodel with Distinctive Deck Designs, think about installing built-in furniture while you’re at it. Built-in furnishings will last you all year-round.

Build a barrier for the cold

This is a necessity if you plan on entertaining this fall. Our Fairfax deck builders will install stunning gazebos and covered living areas to keep you and your guests warm and comfortable throughout the cold months.

Add soft light

The days seem to be getting shorter. The best way to enjoy your deck into the evenings is to add lighting options. Install pathway lights as part of your custom Fairfax deck design or twinkly overhead lights. To create an authentic, warm glow, place candles around your yard. Incorporate design interest by playing with varying heights and colors. Scents like warm vanilla and pumpkin spice will leave behind the perfect autumn aroma.

Install a firepit

If you haven’t installed a firepit, now is the perfect time to do it. Imagine having your family gathered around a roaring fire on a chilly fall evening, watching the sunset. It doesn’t get much better than that. We offer beautifully made, wood-burning fire pits that will make your autumn nights complete.

It’s time to say goodbye to the summer heat and hello to the crisp autumn breeze. Try these design elements to welcome fall into your home. Contact us today to receive more information about our process and products!