By Megan Burns
29th Nov 2020
29th Nov 2020
It doesn’t look like we’re going to be having indoor get-togethers anytime soon, so one of these outdoor gifts will help make those al fresco gatherings more of an occasion.
2020 has been many things, and among them is definitely the year of the outdoor gathering. Never have we had so many coffees in the park, or celebratory drinks in someone’s garden.
In Ireland, we’re not really used to socialising outdoors. Sure, we might have a few barbecues in the summer, but even then we usually head inside when the sun goes down. Most of us haven’t really set up our outdoor spaces as places to sit year-round, but just a few additions can make them feel much more welcoming (and warm!).
If you know someone who wants to make their garden more gathering-friendly, here are some great gift ideas.
Fire Pit, Rawsaol, €290
One of the main issues with sitting outside is the cold, so a fire pit is a great solution, that also creates a focal point for your outdoor space.
This Irish-made steel design cleverly folds flat when not in use, so it’s easy to store, and is also portable, perfect for a beach trip. It’s definitely an investment that they’ll enjoy for years to come.
LED Festoon String Lights, Oliver Bonas, €88.53
Especially at this time of year, you’ll need good lighting if you want to stay outdoors past 4pm. This string of chunky lights will provide good light, as well as creating a cosy feel with their twinkly glow.
The string contains 20 bulbs, and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Balsatre Rug, JYSK, €45
An outdoor rug can help things feel cosier, providing protection against the chill of a cold patio, plus they make things look more put-together.
This one from JYSK has a cool Scandi feel, and it can be spot-cleaned with water in case of any spills.
Handwoven Kapok Mattress, Rowen & Wren, around €110
These beautiful long cushions will not only make any seat more comfortable, they’ll provide an extra layer of warmth for cold evenings.
Available in a soft pink or grey, they would also be useful indoors as extra cushions, or for children to sit on the floor.
Griffin Ceramic Stool, Anthropologie, €150
Whether as a seat for an extra guest or a side table to rest drinks and snacks on, this ceramic stool would definitely come in handy.
Its handcrafted details also mean it’s pretty enough to be used indoors, too, so it’s a gift that will be useful year-round.
Karu Wood and Charcoal-Fired Pizza Oven, Ooni, €223.20
Pizza-making has been a popular lockdown pastime, and this wood and charcoal-fired oven would really elevate your homemade creations.
It can cook pizzas in just 60 seconds, making it easy to cook enough for a group without waiting around.
Green Diamond weave throw, €165, Molloy & Sons
It goes without saying that coats and hats are essential attire for an outdoor gathering at this time of year, however sometimes it’s hard to beat the full-body cosiness of a wool blanket.
This beautiful one from Molloy & Sons has been woven in Donegal using locally dyed and spun yarns, so it’s a sustainable choice that supports Irish craftspeople.
Falcon Enamel Teapot, Trouva, €27.49
If you don’t like bringing your good crockery outside, then enamelware is a great alternative, as it’s both sturdy and retains heat well.
Falcon enamelware makes everything from mugs and plates to jugs and tumblers, but we think a teapot is a great place to start, and would also come in handy for camping, or beach trips.
Bimala Brass Hurricane Lantern, Amara, €46
Combined with string lights, the soft glow of candles makes for a wonderful atmosphere. To make sure they stay lit for longer than a few minutes, you’ll need a hurricane lantern.
This one is wonderfully simple, and leaving you scope to fill it as you please, whether it’s with one large candle or lots of smaller ones. You could also add decorations like stones or foliage in the bottom, too.
Featured image: Rowen & Wren
Read more: 10 serving dishes that will brighten up your table (even on a weeknight)
Read more: Christmas at home: the tablescape pieces to make all the difference
Read more: Let’s revive the tradition of Christmas cards: 14 Irish ones to buy now
Related Stories
Also Read
