House & Home

With the Victoria Day long weekend only 18 days away, it's time to prep your balcony, patio or backyard entertaining area for alfresco drinks and dining. So, why not embrace the spirit of summer with these design-savvy outdoor accessories? 

Punch up your patio table with classic PC® Home melamine plates and bowls in on-trend, pop-art colours and patterns. They're lightweight and easy to mix-and-match for effortless style. Better yet, they’re practically indestructible, so they’re perfect for outdoor use. (This blog and the All Decked Out Contest are sponsored by PC® Home.)

If you’re morally opposed to using plastic dishes, but can’t bear to bring your good china outdoors, the PC® Home Eco Cornstarch line is for you. This biodegradable dinnerware is made of 70 per cent cornstarch, and is designed to break down within a year of being disposed of. The squared shapes are ultra-modern. Plus, at $6 to $8 for a set of four, they prove that you don’t have to sacrifice style to help save the planet.

Everyone knows it’s not a party without cold drinks. This Beverage Dispenser is perfect for keeping your guests refreshed. The spout makes it easy to pour drinks, while the sealed reservoir keeps beverages free of bugs and leaves. Simply add ice to the bottom of the unit and voila! Perfectly chilled drinks all afternoon long.

Glassware is incredibly vulnerable at an outdoor fête; between being knocked over or blown off the table, it’s easy to be a few glasses short at the end of the evening. Get all the style of glass with Classico Plastic Glassware, instead. The line, pictured above, includes wine, margarita and martini glasses, as well as tumblers and beer mugs that look just like the real thing.

Lighting is another essential element of any party, and PC® Home has two great options. For a rustic, cottage feel, you can’t go wrong with a classic lantern. These copper lanterns are simple, and when grouped together, create a wonderful glow.

You can also embrace the indoor/outdoor spaces trend with a more formal glass hurricane votive holder.These substantial pieces are heavy enough to withstand a breezy summer barbecue, yet sophisticated enough to earn a spot on your mantle come fall. Line these votive holders down the centre of your table for maximum effect.

All of these attractive PC® Home patio picks are available at Real Canadian Superstores and select President's Choice retailers. Find the nearest location near you.

Looking for more patio style ideas? Watch our video featuring chef Angie MacRae, complete with ideas on creating a casual outdoor dining room and summer entertaining tips. Plus, enter to win a PC® Home outdoor dining set and barbecue, valued at $1,200!