Hopefully, we can all begin to look forward to spring creeping through and while the weather might still have customers flocking to your covered areas at the minute, it is the perfect time to start preparing your outside space to wow guests as soon as the sun allows.
If your business is lucky enough to boast a decent outdoor area, it is vital to utilise all square footage in order to maximise profits and really pull in the punters. There are a few critical areas that are vital to clean up before the temperatures really start to heat up.
- Get to grips with your foliage.
Prune or remove any unruly trees or shrubs that are encroaching on to your decking or patio areas. Maximising your outdoor area will allow more people to take advantage of the space you have available.
- Assess your garden furniture to make sure it is up to scratch.
It is essential to create a clean, inviting space and ensuring that your furniture is presentable is one of the primary areas. Not only do your seating areas need to be clean but also comfortable and well placed. Cramming tables and chairs into every available inch will deter guests who want to relax and enjoy good company. Don’t be tempted to aim for quantity over quality; you will end up with no one at all wanting to join the atmosphere.
- Look at your facilities.
A good outdoor area will include lighting so that guests can sit out well into the evening, patio heaters so that cool breezes don’t have people rushing indoors and covered areas for those who don’t wish to sit directly in the sun’s glare. Planning the most effective design and layout now will guarantee you are ready to unveil your spring/summer garden when the time comes.
- Hone food and drink menus.
Guests don’t want filling hot dishes when out in the sun preferring instead, light bites, cool salads and easy to eat plates. Try introducing picnic type spreads, barbecues and perhaps a limited edition cocktail menu to really get the party started.
- If you attract families make sure you occupy the little ones.
Children love it when the sun has got his hat on, making the most of a little freedom. Parents also relish the chance to kick back and allow offspring to occupy themselves. If your business aims to attract families you should be introducing some activities to keep the little ones entertained. This could be in the form of plus-sized garden games such as Giant Snakes & Ladders or Giant Jenga (with foam bricks if possible). By laying on something for the children that occupies tiny hands and minds, the adults will want to stay longer and spend their pennies.