By Megan Montemarano
Memorial Day plans are well underway in anticipation of the official start to the long-awaited summer season. From home barbeques and town cookouts to parades, picnics, beach openings and more, the choice of weekend activities is usually vast. Whatever your plans may be, however, one common factor always seems to remain, weather permitting, of course—time spent in the great outdoors.
Prepare to impress guests this Memorial Day weekend with these inspiring outdoor spaces and useful entertaining tips, brought to you by our very own agent experts.
Take Advantage of the Weather
“It’s only summer for a few short months, so taking advantage of the good weather is imperative,” comments Rye agent Melissa Kaminsky. “Buyers love to see homes where they can picture themselves barbequing while the kids are running through the grass.” Kaminsky’s listing at 35 Bonwit Road in Rye, N.Y., is no exception. The kitchen and living room open to an expansive deck that features a barbeque, along with an area for eating and relaxing on couches with family and friends. “There’s plenty of room in the yard for a casual football game, or to set up a volleyball net. Plus, it’s fully fenced for the family dog—the perfect setting for a Memorial Day barbecue.”
…But Prepare for All Kinds of Weather
While no one likes to even contemplate a Memorial Day backyard celebration getting rained out, it’s important to always have an alternate plan. “I love to entertain, especially outdoors,” states Maria Tziolis, an agent in our Westport, Conn., brokerage. “The first thing I do is make sure I am prepared for the weather. I like to have a contingency plan in case Mother Nature does not cooperate. If it’s a large party, having a tent not only protects you from the elements, but also provides a cozy atmosphere and sets a nice mood with added lighting.” Of course, a residence with covered patios and protected porches such as 4 Johnny Cake Hill Road in Old Lyme, Conn., makes planning even easier. “This home was designed for hosting events,” explains Old Lyme agent MJ DeRisio, who represents the unique property. “Entertaining is the current homeowner’s primary activity—Fundraising for non-profits and sharing her space with friends and family for the pure fun and pleasure of it.”
Incorporate Lighting
Setting the mood is an essential component of home entertaining, even when outside. At 2 Flagler Drive in Rye, N.Y., the incorporation of lighting and music contribute greatly to a successful backyard party. “The lighting is subtle and discreet, but deliberately placed around the expansive deck and oversized bluestone patio, creating the mood for a great evening,” says listing agent Lisa McGowan. “A state-of-the-art sound system takes the party to a whole new level. There is even a built-in fire pit to warm up by after a dip in the property’s salt water pool.” Larchmont agent Mimi Magarelli wholeheartedly agrees. “Always dine alfresco, hang little white lights and own a great playlist for tunes. Oh, and greet your guests with a warm hug and cold drink!”
Drink in the View
If your home offers a beautiful view, be sure to use it. Sit back and relax with a cold beverage in hand, and drink it all in. Ponds, private beaches, lakes, mountains and pristine gardens all create a splendid party backdrop. 9 Truesdale Lake Drive in South Salem, N.Y., is a contemporary home that faces a lake with floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors that lead out to a patio with bar-height tables and lounges. There are also stone steps down to the lake and a boat house for water sport activities. “The house is westward facing so evenings are beautiful,” explains listing agent Joanna Rizoulis. “I always try to remind myself it’s not all about the food. It’s about creating a warm, beautiful setting with friends. This place makes it easy.” 670 Milton Road in Rye, N.Y., also benefits from an ideal waterfront location, where lucky guests can watch the sun set over the Long Island Sound, and maybe even go for a breathtaking sail off the property’s deep water dock.
Embrace Outdoor Amenities
From pools, pool houses and home spas to sport courts and fire pits, outdoor amenities provide the perfect source of energy and excitement for any backyard shindig. 83 Old Kings Highway South in Darien, Conn., is an unexpected private oasis, complete with a playground, 45-foot pool built into natural rock formations, a slate patio with fireplace, pergola and bar/grill area, as well as fountains, all set on a peaceful, professionally landscaped, 1.63-acre lot. Go for a dip, and then dry off by the cozy outdoor fire, which will surely keep the night aglow. The in-ground pool at 10 Stone Bridge Road in Purchase, N.Y., is also worth the plunge. Surrounded by an expansive patio and the utmost luxury, this new construction, stone and brick Colonial has definite party planning in its near future.
