Tag Archives: outdoor dining

An “Almost” Complete Guide to Buying an Outdoor Dining Set

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When buying an outdoor dining furniture set there is an absolute smorgasbord of styles, sizes, and add-ons that can leave an anyone’s head spinning. We created this “Almost” Complete Buying Guide to help break down some of the must-ask questions and different options to help you make best choice for your outdoor furniture.

First things first, you are going to want to think about the following questions:

  • How many people will typically be utilizing the set?
  • How big is the outdoor space?
  • How often do you entertain?
  • Who will be using the furniture (children, adults, elderly)?

Decide on a set size. Once you decide how many people will typically be using the set you can decide how large of a set you will need. Whether it is a cozy two piece for you and your partner, a nine piece for a large family or anything in between, as long as it fits on your patio we can help you make it happen. Shape is also an important factor. A square or rectangular table will provide a more modern straight-lined look while a circular table is more free-flowing and rustic. You should also consider that a circular table makes it easier to add extra chairs.

Choose your height. Dining height, counter height and bar height all provide unique benefits and visual appeal.

  • Dining height can be dressed up for formal dinners or dressed down for casual nights outside. It is easier to get in and out of than a much taller bar height and is comfortable for extended periods of sitting.
  • Counter height is the middle option providing some added height if people are standing around and looking for a place to put their drink. It is also the easiest to get in and out of because it does not require sitting down into or stepping up into.
  • Bar height provides a more casual look that is perfect for leaning up against and standing around. While it creates a higher viewing platform, it can be difficult for children and elderly to climb up into.

Choose a seating option. While standard dining chairs are great, you will also want to consider adding arms and maybe even a swivel. Arms not only add comfort but also make it easier to get in and out of the chair. A swivel chair allows both a change of view and the ability to get in and out without moving the chair. The swivel chairs are particularly beneficial if you choose a polyethylene set due to heavy weight of the chairs. Other options include stools that create a bar-like feel with a higher table height or benches which are a great way to increase seating space especially with small kids.

Choose your materials and color. Our most popular dining sets are made from HDPE recycled plastic which provides numerous benefits. It is very heavy preventing it from blowing in the wind, it can be left outside all year long, and it is colored all the way through minimizing scratching and fading. Other people prefer teak which gives a more natural feel. Teak is a very durable and strong wood that naturally regulates its temperature. Our third most popular set is rattan which is not only lightweight but also creates a beach-like feel. Choose your colors and you are a full step closer to finalizing your new dining set! If you are not sure how to choose your colors, ask us and we would be happy to find the perfect color to fit your style!

Do I want an umbrella? Whether it is a large umbrella extending over the patio or a standard umbrella in your table, an umbrella provides a cool area on hot days and protection when it rains. An umbrella is also a great way to bring in some bright accent colors and make your set pop!  

Should I add a rug? While it may not be the best fit practically around a pool or muddy area, a rug can bring in a splash of color and comfort. It is also a great way to cozy up an outdoor area. If you decide to go with a rug, you want to make sure it is at least two feet longer than your table, so the entire set remains on the rug.

Add your finishing touches. To take your patio set to the next level, consider adding outdoor cushions for comfort and style, a centerpiece with fresh cut flowers, a table cloth, a fire feature, and maybe some stylish napkins or dining pieces. Little details make big statements and take your dining set to the next level.

You might be wondering why this guide is “not complete.” While we have provided a ton of information, it is not complete because it is missing one important thing—you. It is missing your opinion, your style, and your color preferences. Ultimately, you are the decision-maker and we are just here to help you along! Learn more about the furniture we offer here or stop by and talk to a Vande Hey Company representative.

Cheers to Summer

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As we near the changing of the leaves and the school year starts up again to include the crisp bite of a temperature change, we prepare to leave behind a time of warmth, of green grass, and a little bit of fun in the sun.

We choose to celebrate this last little slice of summer with an outdoor experience that will leave you savoring its last farewell.  It’s not too late to put that grill into work, firing up the heat for that juicy burger or tender steak.  Gather friends and family, hit the pool and create a splash of memories.

It’s time for one last round folks.  Get the menu started, and the food on the table.  Round up the patio chairs, grab your glass of wine, and ignite your fire table for an extra sense of warmth when the day dies down into the night.

It’s not too late to enjoy the last bits of the season, to say, “Cheers” and raise a glass. For your next summer needs, let’s get a jump start on projects with stopping in to speak with an expert today.  Visit https://www.vandeheys.com/ to get started.

Just Relax, and Grill.

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“Just relax, and grill”

With the window of Wisconsin outdoor dining finally upon us, Andy Vande Hey, President of the Vande Hey Company, joins us in sharing his passion for outdoor experiences. Andy dishes out what you need for a tasty grilling season of ease, “From how the right space should make you feel to, my excitement for making a recipe taste just that much better.”

Whether you’re a novice or grilling expert, his motto for creating the ultimate dining experience is to “just relax”. There are few simple things you can do to make awesome tasting food, but keeping it healthy and keeping it easy is his way to do it. We’ve outlined the top tips from our expert to help in creating your outdoor dining experience one to remember, and most importantly enjoy.

The Big Green Egg:

One of today’s most popular grills. A kimono style cooking grill made of ceramic that locks in heat and seals in moisture creating the perfect temperature for a variety of food.

From a simple burger, searing a steak or tuna at 700 degrees, pizza, or slow cooking pork, the egg can do it all. No need to worry about complicated operations, at Vande Hey we’ll teach you the simple basic steps when you visit us at the shop or during our Grilling classes.

Eggcessories are a fun way to add depth and variety to your Egg grill. We carry a variety of tools to increase the ease of the grilling experience including a plate set for slow cooking, racks to separate veggies or salmon, a porcelain plate for a smoke variation, and Andy’s favorite the instant-read thermometer. The Eggnighter is the perfect add-on to your grilling experience that’ll have you cooking as fast as a gas grill, just ignite and you’ll be ready to cook in 60 seconds.

At Vande Hey, we’re known for our products for being high quality and of great value, and The Egg is the exact same. It starts with the charcoal, the eggcessories, and quality of the construction of the grill itself, the egg is something you’d be able to pass down to your children if they don’t go out and buy it for themselves!

Come on in to enjoy our grill varieties and we’ll walk you through the simple steps in feasting with each one. Need a little more hands-on experience? Head to our website’s Events page or our Facebook Page where we cook up something special and teach you how to prepare the entire meal from start to finish.