LOCKDOWN restrictions have relaxed and people are now allowed to meet up in gardens or outdoor areas.

You can meet up outdoors with friends and family you do not live with, either in a group of up to 6 or in a group of up to two households.

This means that garden get-togethers are back- and if you’re looking to spruce up your outdoors then help is at hand. 

Lancashire interiors expert, Rebecca Kane, has shared her best tips on getting your garden ready for visitors. 

And the good news is you don’t need a giant space or green fingers to impress guests.

Rebecca, who founded online kitchen and homeware store Silver Mushroom from her home in Tockholes, Blackburn in 2011, said: “Many people will be looking forward to welcoming another household into their gardens for the first time this year. 

“But as we’re still in the early days of spring outdoor spaces won’t have been a priority for most. 

“Sprucing up your garden doesn’t have to be a big, laborious task. A very small change can make a world of difference and impress any visitors.”

Tips on sprucing up your garden

Rebecca suggests creating a cosy seating area with plenty of throws, cushions and lanterns as a place to welcome guests. 

She added: “Our gardens are an extension of our homes so it’s nice to soften up seating areas with some stylish furnishings. 

“New cushions and carefully placed, stylish lanterns can make a huge difference. 

“If you don’t like traditional garden seating, try mixing it up with a hammock for a bohemian vibe or add some texture with rattan furniture.”

Lancashire Telegraph: Imagine relaxing in this hammock (Photo: Silver Mushroom)Imagine relaxing in this hammock (Photo: Silver Mushroom)

If you’re looking to entertain, creating a stylish space to host doesn’t have to cost the earth. 

Rebecca suggests making your own DIY garden bar by up-cycling a potting bench and adding some flair with stylish drinks dispensers and gorgeous glassware. 

Lancashire Telegraph: Fancy a drinks dispenser? (Photo: Silver Mushroom)Fancy a drinks dispenser? (Photo: Silver Mushroom)

Rebecca said: “A DIY garden bar is a great way of adding a little extra wow. Whip up a nice cocktail with some fruity garnishes and your guests can help themselves. 

“We love the Kilner glass drinks dispensers because they look great and last for ages.”

Rebecca suggests another quick and easy way to refresh your outdoors is with stylish lighting. 

She said: “Garden lighting comes in all shapes and sizes. You can choose to hang dainty string lights, get creative with stylish solar lighting, or strategically place some gorgeous candles around.

Lancashire Telegraph: Quirky outdoor lighting (Photo: Silver Mushroom)Quirky outdoor lighting (Photo: Silver Mushroom)  

“We like lantern because once you’re done with them outside, you can bring them indoors and they look just as good.”

Silver Mushroom is a family-run online store offering a curated selection of stylish homeware, kitchenware and wellbeing products. 

Their items range from well-known favourites like Le Creuset, Denby and Kilner, as well as more niche brands including Broste Copenhagen and The Organic Company. 

For more information visit silvermushroom.com