Okay, so we've got keeping things cold taken care of, what about keeping things warm? From after dinner coffee to an after-dark dip in the lake, here are a couple of ways to warm up.
Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Thermal CoffeemakerSears.ca
Serving coffee on the back deck or dockside? This programmable, 10-cup coffee maker will drip a perfect brew right into the thermal carafe. When it's done brewing, bring the pot to the great outdoors and the coffee will stay warm for up 4 hours. Two travel mugs are also included.
Tip: Here's a really thoughtful touch. If you're planning an intimate dinner for two or four, that you expect might go on into the wee hours, drape a cosy throw onto the back of each chair.
Lee Valley Tools Traditional Turkish Grillleevalley.com
Hand crafted in Turkey from recycled metals, this copper and wrought iron stunner doubles as a fire pit. Check municipal regulation in your area.
Napoleon Patio Heaterssobies.com
An easy way to squeeze more out of summer. With one of these propane babies in the yard or on the deck, enjoying summer nights can start as early as April and last through to October.
Tip: If you need a little extra heat for just one night, check your local 411 directory, as most party rental companies rent patio heaters, and just about anything else you might need, for that matter.
Love is in the air: Picnic baskets
There are simply dozens of picnic baskets and backpacks for two on the market—in the shops and online. Here are a couple we really like.
Malibu Rivera Backpackwinepicnicbaskets.com
This attractive carrier made of woven polyester, is insulated with a waterproof interior for spills and easy clean up. It features a divided wine section for two bottles and a removable liner in the food storage area. Inside you'll also find: a couple of acrylic tumblers, two cotton napkins, two melamine plates, a stainless steel corkscrew, wood cutting board, stainless steel cheese knife, and stainless steel knives and forks (two each). The backpack design lets you hike comfortably to the perfect spot, no matter how remote!
Eco Basket for Twowinepicnicbaskets.com
Love the planet too! Constructed from 100 per cent natural and renewable resources, this beautiful, hand woven willow basket comes complete with bamboo plates, cutting board and utensils. The interior cotton lining is dye and chemical-free, as are the cotton napkins, and the wineglasses made from recycled glass.
Glass Hummingbird Feederpier1.com
And as for sharing a little love, you're not the only one who enjoys dining al fresco. Include your fine-feathered friends, with this beautiful feeder, which is a stunner in the yard or hanging from the porch roof.
Page 3 of 3 -- Check out the top tools for backyard entertaining on page 1.
