In case you hadn’t noticed, it’s been hot in the UK lately. And temperatures are meant to soar again soon. While some love it, the heat has thrown up some obstacles for the garden - from concerns about your potted plants surviving to the surprising dangers of watering your grass during hot weather.
The heat might have most of us running inside during the afternoon hours, but as it cools down in the evenings, we want to get out and enjoy the efforts we’ve put into the garden – which makes the idea of an outdoor cinema set up for relaxing with friends under the twilight skies on warm summer nights absolutely perfect.
We’re taking inspiration from gardening expert and author Michael Griffiths, who recently showcased how you can create an outdoor entertainment space that will surely become the hottest ticket in town this summer.
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Sharing on his Instagram, Michael (author of The Easy Garden) shows how he set up an enchanting open-air cinema for his nearest and dearest to settle down for a night under the stars watching a film. And it's as simple as setting up a projector and getting some chairs and blankets out.
There are so many smart projectors to pick from these days that can connect to your home streaming apps, including Netflix, which allow you to browse a full library of titles just like you would on your TV.
Some even come with the option of connecting a DVD player or an Amazon Fire Stick, so you'll have no trouble keeping yourself and your guests entertained all summer long.
Open air cinema essentials: under £100
What we’re really taking note of, though, is how Michael’s set-up has considered the neighbours. Instead of playing the movie out loud, Michael's guests are given their own set of headphones. No more noise complaints!
Responding to a follower's comment, Michael explained that he was able to pick up a set of second-hand Silent Disco headphones for a bargain price, advising people to check the likes of eBay to do the same.
These headphones come with a special transmitter that allows multiple devices to connect to the same source. This is necessary if you have a lot of guests coming over, but if you just have between two and four, you can also use a multi-point Bluetooth transmitter (such as the Avantree AudiCast Plus). Connect the transmitter to your projector's audio out port, and pair up to 2-4 compatible headphones to it.
Don't forget the special finishing touches to your garden, as well as the technical details. Subtle details like adding fairy lights around for a warm glow, setting up a help-yourself 'picky bits' station or moving your fragrant potted plants closer to the action will elevate the occasion.
Whether it's a romantic couple's night under the stars or you invite your friends round to watch a classic together, soak up the cool evening air and make the most of your garden all summer long.
