Good outdoor entertaining rarely comes down to how much space you have. A good chair, a refreshing drink, and the right company will outperform a fancy setup every time. But that doesn’t mean a simple setup can’t feel fancy with just a few thoughtful choices.
If you’re ready for your yard to be the place to be in your manufactured home community this summer, here’s how to get there.
Here, Have a Seat (or Several)
The first thing to figure out is where everyone’s going to sit. These days, plenty of Big Box stores offer truly lovely Adirondack-style chairs for under $25. These look nice year-round and offer comfortable seating for small gatherings.
If you don’t have the space (or desire) to set up a permanent outdoor seating area, that’s okay! A few lightweight folding chairs and a small table can turn almost any outdoor space into a gathering spot. Look for stackable pieces you can stow away easily, or foldable options that can live in a closet until the weekend.
If you want something a little cozier, floor cushions and low outdoor poufs are a nice touch. They’re portable, inexpensive, and easy to move around depending on how many people you’ve got coming.
Throw Some Shade
A well-placed umbrella can mean the difference between spending an hour outside to say you did and enjoying an entire afternoon of good conversation. Freestanding market umbrellas are great because you can move them wherever the sun is coming from (there’s no need for permanent installation!). A cantilever umbrella is another solid option if you want more coverage, though they do tend to be a little spendier.
A Little Ambiance Goes a Long Way
There’s a reason you see string lights everywhere. They’re just about the easiest upgrade you can make to an outdoor space! Solar-powered strands are especially handy since you don’t need an outlet nearby, and they come on automatically at dusk. Drape them along a railing, weave through potted plants, or use a couple of shepherd's hooks to elevate the whole mood.
For evenings, a few battery-powered lanterns on a table can add warm light without any wiring. And of course, citronella candles pull double duty, keeping the good times rolling without mosquitoes crashing the party.
Summer Cookout (or Snackout, Your Choice)
One of the best things about summer entertaining is that it doesn’t have to be elaborate. A cooler stocked with drinks handles one of the most common hosting tasks, and a portable folding table doubles as a buffet station for food and snacks.
If your space and community guidelines allow for your own small outdoor grill, even better. Compact charcoal and propane options don’t take up much room, and they make summer afternoons feel like a real occasion. Keep a basket nearby with the basics: napkins, a bottle opener, tongs, and a few serving utensils. Trust us, this little effort up front goes a long way!
And don’t forget, many Bayshore communities also have community green spaces with grills that residents can use for personal gatherings. Just ask your community manager!
Plants Bring the Aesthetic
A few container plants can completely change the feel of an outdoor space. Potted herbs, seasonal flowers, or some trailing greenery on a step or railing add color and life without requiring any digging or big commitment. They’re portable, too, so you can rearrange them whenever you want.
Tall potted plants like ornamental grasses or small shrubs also work well as natural dividers if you want to create a little privacy or a sense of cozy space.
Don't Forget the Kids!
If you’re hosting families, a little goes a long way with kids. A bucket of sidewalk chalk, a lawn game like bocce or ring toss, or a small activity table nearby are all great ways to get younger guests into the spirit. Watching the neighborhood kids think up new ways to have fun is one of the best joys of a summer at Bayshore.
And let’s be honest, lawn games are fun for adults too! Cornhole, lawn checkers, and even hacky sacks are all portable, easy to set up, and a good reason to stay outside a little longer.
We also have lots of programming for kids planned throughout the summer, so if you need some inspiration, make sure to get in on the fun! Ask your community manager how to sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on upcoming events.
No Matter What Your Setup Looks Like, Enjoy It!
Summer is short, and your outdoor space, whatever size it is, is worth making the most of. You don’t need to go all out to make it feel welcoming. A few reliable pieces, a little shade, some lights when the sun goes down, and good company are really all it takes.
Find a Community Where Summer Feels Like This
If you’re looking for a place where you have a little slice of the great outdoors you can call your own, come explore a Bayshore community! Browse our available homes and find a neighborhood that fits the way you want to live.
RHP Social community events are designed to encourage our residents to socialize with their fellow community members through fun, family-friendly BBQs, holiday parties, and more! If you’ve found a community that suits your needs, contact our team today and let’s get started on the application process.