The NPD Group, a market research company, recently reported that the Outdoor Entertaining trend is still relevant. The Outdoor Entertaining Trends 2008: Consumers Bring the Indoors Out study concluded that “most consumers are engaging in some form of outdoor entertaining, with an average frequency of about four times per year” and “firepits/outdoor fireplaces, outdoor lighting, and water fountains/décor were among the top products outdoor entertainers said they plan to purchase.” To all of us in the Outdoor Living world, this is great news.
To be honest, I’m not that surprised that outdoor entertaining is still popular; who doesn’t enjoy socializing with friends and family while getting some fresh air? I’ve been to two parties outside in the last two weeks alone! What I’m really happy to see in the report is that outdoor lighting is one of the top products outdoor entertainers are looking to buy. Outdoor lighting is not always a part of people’s consciousness, but it makes perfect sense when it comes to having company outside. Light is a natural way to bring the indoors out and it will stop the chefs from burning themselves on the grill.