The Curator: Your ultimate outdoor entertaining guide – National | Globalnews.ca

The Curator: Your ultimate outdoor entertaining guide – National | Globalnews.ca

The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Whether you’re a last minute entertainer or a Pinterest-leaning, plan-for-weeks kind of host–we can all agree that high impact and low effort is the ultimate intersection for Summer 2026. And you don’t need to be oceanside or frolicking at a farm to make the experience incredible. A simple, well-appointed festivus (that’s what we call it) can come together just about anywhere–your neighbourhood park, your condo balcony, your front stoop! Fun doesn’t have to be fussy.

 

As a party favour or hostess gift, the vegetable bouquet just requires burlap or craft paper and some kitchen string. I use natural burlap like this for everything from Christmas trees skirts to wrapping carrots for my pals.

Story continues below advertisement

 

When I buy flowers, I skip the decorative wrapping and curly ribbons and just ask for plain old craft paper.

 

Is there anything more lovely than a bottle brimming with blooms? This move is the way! Originally a niche wedding trend, the concept of a mini floral foam holder has officially crossed over into mainstream gifting – and I’m here for it.

 

Sure – you’ve seen stemless plastic wine glasses since forever, but have they been DISHWASHER SAFE? Boom.

Story continues below advertisement

 

In case you hadn’t heard, butter moulds are now a thing. And as someone who makes my own bread – AND butter – this charming party trick has my complete attention. Just smear your beurre of choice into these seashell and seahorse silicone moulds, pop them in the freezer, et voilà – you are now a butter artist.

 

You may also like:

Outdoor Patio Storage Bags – $50.79

Veradek Umbrella Side Table – $149.99

Patio Cantilever Umbrella Cover for 9-13 Ft Umbrellas – $49.99

 

There’s something so charming about crab and lobster motifs. And these scalloped-edge versions feel plucked straight from the shores of Nantucket.


Story continues below advertisement

 

After 15 good years, I’ve officially grown weary of my camp-style globe lights. Considering these solar lantern versions as a fresh upgrade.

 

If you are lucky enough to have a hot tub, slip and slide (lol) or a pool, lake or beach on site (woot!) – a stack of fresh, uniform stripey towels is a must (model not included).

 

How sweet and juicy is this berry vinyl tablecloth! Variety of dimensions available.

Story continues below advertisement

 

I heart this cushion pattern because you don’t often see a shade like Vintage Pink in the outdoor throw pillow lineup. Throwback and charming all at once.

 

You may also like:

76×51 inches Large Grill Mat for Outdoor Grill – $46.99

Large Resin Planter Pot – $39.99

Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station – $1,099


The Curator newsletter
The Curator newsletter

The Curator

Be in the know before you shop with The Curator email sent twice a week.

&copy 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

Scroll to Top