The secret to outdoor entertaining

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, gardens become the heart of home entertaining. But creating an outdoor space where guests truly want to linger takes much more than setting out a few chairs – it’s about thoughtful design, welcoming touches and ensuring nothing interrupts the evening, especially uninvited pests. 

To help hosts make the most of their outdoor space, the experts from garden furniture supplier, Charles Bentley and mosquito protection specialists, Thermacell® share their top tips for stress-free entertaining all summer long. 

Design spaces that bring guests together 

Naomi Bentley, Director at Charles Bentley, says: 

“When you’re planning a space for outdoor entertaining, it’s important to think about how people will move and gather. Arrange seating so guests can chat easily, whether that’s around a dining table, a lounge set or a fire pit and create zones that feel natural and welcoming. Flexible furniture, like modular sofas or lightweight chairs, make it easy to adapt the space for different occasions, while cushions and throws add comfort and personality – small touches that make all the difference when guests are spending long summer evenings together.” 

Create comfortable zones for all weather 

“British weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth being prepared whatever the forecast” says Naomi. “A good parasol or gazebo provides essential shade on sunny days and shelter during light summer showers, meaning your gathering doesn’t have to move indoors at the first sign of clouds. Choosing weather-resistant furniture and fabrics also makes a real difference. Materials that dry quickly and won’t fade in the sun mean your outdoor space is always guest-ready, even after an unexpected downpour.” 

Set the mood with lighting and finishing touches 

Naomi advises on adding personality to your outdoor space, “Lighting and decorative touches really bring a garden to life, especially after sunset. Soft, layered lighting such as lanterns, solar lights or stringed bulbs create a warm, inviting glow, while water features or fire pits add a sense of calm and serene atmosphere. Even small accents, like a rug, decorative cushions or a few potted plants, help the space feel styled without being fussy. These finishing touches make guests feel welcome and encourage them to linger long into the evening.”  

Keep mosquitoes away before they arrive 

Angharad James, Brand Manager at SBM Life Science, distributor of Thermacell® in the UK, says: 

“A beautiful garden and good company can make any outdoor gathering special – until mosquitoes or midges arrive. These biting insects thrive in warm, still conditions, so a little preparation can make a big difference. One of the simplest steps is to manage standing water, which they need to breed. Even small amounts in plant saucers, buckets, watering cans or clogged gutters can become hotspots. Keeping water moving where possible and refreshing features like birdbaths regularly helps break the mosquito and midge lifecycle before it starts.  

“Certain plants, such as lavender, citronella, rosemary and marigolds, can help deter mosquitoes and midges, while adding a welcome splash of colour. Tidying the garden also makes it less appealing to pests. Trimming back overgrown shrubs, mowing the lawn and clearing away leaves and debris improves airflow and lets sunlight in – making the space more inviting for guests and less attractive to nuisance pests!” 

Let guests relax, not swat 

“Of course, prevention only goes so far, and that’s where Thermacell® makes all the difference” recommends Angharad. “The device gently heats a repellent mat, releasing a scent-free vapour that mosquitoes and midges instinctively avoid, creating an invisible zone of protection of up to 20m². Unlike traditional insect repellents like sprays or candles, it works quietly in the background without smoke, strong scents or sticky residue. 

“Portable and easy to use, Thermacell® isn’t just for the garden – it can be used on balconies, patios, camping trips or anywhere outdoors you want a comfortable, pest-free space. This lets you enjoy the outdoors freely and comfortably, whatever the season, without worrying about biting insects getting in the way.” 

*** 

With a thoughtfully designed garden, cosy finishing touches and simple solutions to keep pests at bay, outdoor entertaining can feel effortless. From furniture that invites guests to relax, to protection that lets everyone enjoy the moment, these tips make it easy to create a garden that’s ready for friends, family and unforgettable summer memories. 

For more information about Charles Bentley and Thermacell visit www.charlesbentley.com and www.seezon.com. 

Ends

Editors notes

For over 25 years, Thermacell® has been helping people enjoy the outdoors without the irritation of mosquitoes and midges. Trusted by millions worldwide, Thermacell® is a leading brand in portable, heat-activated mosquito protection, offering an effective, scent-free and contact-free alternative to traditional repellents such as sprays or candles. Using innovative technology, Thermacell® devices create a protective zone of up to 20m² that helps keep biting insects away, including invasive species such as the Asian tiger mosquito. Compact, convenient and easy to use, the range includes solutions for every outdoor setting, from garden and patios to camping and adventure travel. Designed for comfort and proven performance, Thermacell® delivers reliable, long-lasting protection so users can make the most of their time outdoors.