Having an outdoor dining area is a major goal among homeowners who want to make the most of their backyard. Along with outdoor kitchens, outdoor dining spaces are a heavily sought-after home feature and can enhance not only your enjoyment of the outdoors, but your home value as well.
If you're interested in setting up your own area dedicated to outdoor dining, here are some expert tips to get you started:
It's crucial to choose a logical but comfortable place to set up your dining area. When choosing an outdoor dining table, measure your space carefully to ensure you get the ideal size and shape. Having your dining table close to the kitchen or barbecue is a convenient option, but avoid setting up too close to smoke or heat sources.
Consider creating shade over your outdoor table with a pergola or umbrella. A classic table umbrella design works wonders for ambiance and shelter. You can also use privacy screens for additional protection against the harsh sun rays and chilly winds.
If you're having trouble defining your dining area, take some inspiration from garden design elements. Try surrounding your dining area with raised planter beds or container plants. Or, separate the dining space from the rest of the yard with stepping stones or a paver walkway.
While practicality is important for dining outdoors, don't pass up the opportunity to show your style with table settings. For easy cleaning and maintenance, set your table with outdoor-friendly cloths & runners. Include a decorative centerpiece to provide depth, texture and a personal flair to al fresco dining.
With the right dining furniture choices, you can enjoy outdoor dining no matter the size or shape of space you have. However, keeping these ideas in mind will help you get the most out of your outdoor space.
Teresa's beginnings were at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. She was child #5 of 8 and born into an Air Force family that moved all over the United States but usually ended up back in the Washington, D.C. area. Teresa attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and received her bachelor's degree in business from George Mason University, in Fairfax, Virginia. Some of her prior careers include: computer buyer in Fairfax, Virginia; Deputy Clerk at the U.S. District Court in Denver, Colorado; Police Officer in Steamboat Springs, Colorado; and Bed & Breakfast owner in Stowe, Vermont. Teresa obtained her license as a Realtor® in 1998. She has been through many ups and downs in this profession and continues to learn every day. She very much enjoys the real estate profession and the wonderful people she has met and assisted along the way. In order to serve her clients and customers, Teresa continually attends classes and seminars. Some of her Designations and Certifications include:
Teresa has also served and continues to serve on several boards:
In 2007, Teresa was named Vermont Realtor of the Year.Teresa and her husband, a local attorney, moved to Stowe in 1987. They had two sons and Stowe has been their home for the past 36 years. She still feels the Stowe area is a wonderful place to raise a family, there's always something going on. Teresa can often be found behind the lens of her camera documenting the beauty of the area and its many events.As an update, Teresa's older son is now a Doctor/resident at the University of New Mexico's Emergency Management Program. Her younger son graduated from James Mason University and currently resides in Chicago, IL as a supervisor for OKTA.