Summer got off to a sizzling start for me this year as soon as I flipped through the June issue of Avenue Magazine.  With everything from popsicles to fried chicken, it was a treat to photograph their feature filled with backyard patio ideas for the season.  Be sure to pick up copy and hop over to page 75 for loads of summer entertaining inspiration.

I’m a big fan of colour so this pretty summer table scape styled by the team at Avenue, was right up my alley.  It’s always fun to showcase local vendors like Inspirati, who provided the linen bath towels tied on the chair backs.  Cheerful blooms from my wedding colleague Flowers by Janie dotted the tabletop.

Backyard Patio Ideas

Family Freezed, your popsicles are to die for.  I may or may not have sampled one (or two) after this photograph.  I highly recommend the Mango Mint.

You may remember their mini-donut popsicles on the Calgary Stampede midway last summer.

A big thank you to Avenue Calgary for including me in this project.  Click here to view the entire June issue online.

Looking for more backyard patio ideas?  Here a summer brunch with a Stampede flair, if you’d like to see.

Feature expertly styled by Venessa and Ricky from the Avenue team
Floral design: Flowers by Janie
Popsicles: Family Freezed
Wine: Guisti Wine
Linens and serving utensils: Inspirati
Tableware: Crate & Barrel at South Centre Mall
Food: Cluck N Cleaver
Local beer: Big Rock Brewery, Wild Rose Brewery
Jewelry: Links of London  available at Holt Renfrew
Manicures and nail art: Diva Salon Spa
Dress: Nordstrom at Chinook Centre
Gin: Eau Claire Distillery
A special thank you to our hosts, Peni and John, for graciously welcoming us into their home. 
Backyard patio ideas captured by Calgary photographer Tara Whittaker