As we eagerly await warm temperatures and sunny days, why not start getting into the summer spirit by readying your garden for family BBQs, hang-outs and lazy afternoons?

“With the right set-up in your garden, it’s easy to spend quality time with friends and family and enjoy a fun-filled summer, without the stress and costs of having to plan lots of days out,” shares Victoria Jackson, furniture buying director at Aldiss in Norfolk.

Below, Victoria reveals five must-have essentials you need to design a beautiful garden for entertaining, no matter if your outdoor space is large or small.

Must-have one: An elegant outdoor sofa set complete with a coffee table

For large patios and decks, choose from the Panama corner set featuring a sleek corner sofa and coffee table or the Panama lounge set comprised of a cosy three-seat sofa, two armchairs and a timeless rectangular table. Each will ensure you have ample seating for all your guests, so no one misses out on an invitation to your garden party.

Eastern Daily Press: Make the most of the summer with the Panama lounge set and create an idyllic spot to curl up with a book or enjoy cocktails as you catch up with loved ones.Make the most of the summer with the Panama lounge set and create an idyllic spot to curl up with a book or enjoy cocktails as you catch up with loved ones. (Image: Aldiss)

When choosing outdoor furniture, it’s vital to select pieces that can remain outside all year long, are hard-wearing and require minimal maintenance. Panama’s sofa sets are made from robust UV and frost-resistant aluminium frames and durable Texaline mesh, ensuring your garden furniture is easy to care for and will remain looking its best all year-round. You can also rest easy, knowing that garden furniture from Aldiss comes with up to seven years worry-free manufacturer's guarantee.

Add one of these refined sets to the sunniest spot in your garden to create an idyllic seating area for you and your family to while away pleasant summer afternoons.

Must-have two: A stunning dining area perfect for any size of outdoor space

Aldiss offers a wide selection of dining sets that can seat between two to eight people. This makes it simple to find one that will fit into your garden and suit your every need.

For smaller patios or balconies, the Panama bistro set is great for creating a sophisticated and intimate outdoor dining area. With a stylish bistro table and two UV-resistant and rust-free aluminium stacking chairs, it helps to save space and requires little maintenance.

In larger gardens, the Panama two-metre cross-leg table can easily accommodate eight dining guests utilising the multi-position Panama recliner chairs. Pair this with a Panama corner set or lounge set to create an outdoor area perfect for relaxing into those late summer evenings.

Must-have three: A classy garden parasol to help you remain cool and collected

No one wants a lazy summer day to be spoiled by sunburn, which is why investing in a garden parasol to shade your seating area is a must. Aldiss offers a range of distinguished crank and tilt aluminium parasols that will perfectly match your Panama table and chair set, ensuring you and your guests stay safe in the sun. Purchase a solid base to secure your parasol in any weather.

Must-have four: High-quality furniture covers to keep your outdoor dining set looking its best

To guarantee a long life for your garden furniture, invest in a weatherproof furniture cover. Aldiss provides a range of different sized covers that are eco-friendly, lightweight, easy to store and will protect your garden furniture against grime, dust and water.

It’s also a good idea to buy a cover for your parasol to ensure it will open and close smoothly and doesn’t get torn.

Must-have five: A charming fire lantern to make the most of summer nights

Having warmth and light is essential if you want to prolong your time spent outdoors after the sun goes down. The portable fire lantern from Aldiss will keep you snug while sitting in your garden, whether you’re having drinks with friends or enjoying a spot of stargazing.

Aldiss has a variety of metal and glass fire lanterns available in a range of shades to suit your taste.  They are easy to use and will burn for up to six hours. They’ll make a stylish addition to your tabletop and can even accompany you on road and camping trips.

Use outdoor cushions, plant pots and ornaments to add a splash of colour and finish the space, and your garden makeover will be complete.

To get your garden in shape for summer, visit aldiss.com or pop into their stores in Norwich and Fakenham to explore their full range of garden furniture and accessories.