With the arrival of warm weather, there's no better time to turn your backyard into a true living space — warm, welcoming, and most importantly… mosquito-free! Here are our favourite essentials for transforming your outdoor space into a peaceful retreat, starting with our Citronella + Palmarosa mosquito-repellent candle!
1. The SOJA&CO. Citronella + Palmarosa Mosquito-Repellent Candle
This is our number one ally for summer evenings. Formulated with essential oils of citronella, eucalyptol, and palmarosa, this candle made from 100% natural soy wax is both effective at repelling mosquitoes and a pleasure to burn, thanks to its fresh, floral scent. The perfect essential to light at dusk to set a relaxing mood and enjoy the outdoors in complete peace!
2. Comfortable Cushions
For a truly inviting relaxation corner, nothing beats a great cushion. We especially love this textured style from Bouclair, perfect for adding a bohemian touch to outdoor furniture and making it easy to just sit back and unwind.
3. A Lightweight Throw
Summer evenings can sometimes get a little cool. To stay comfortably warm while staying put, we love this beautiful muslin throw from Womance: soft, fluid, and elegant — perfect for adding a cozy touch to summer nights.
4. A Pretty Woven Placemat
A cozy backyard also means a table that invites you to sit down and stay awhile. We love this placemat from Kozy for dressing the table simply and stylishly. The perfect element for creating a natural, convivial atmosphere and sharing a moment outdoors.
5. A Nature-Inspired Wooden Plate
To complete the warm ambiance of your table, we love these wooden plates from Simons Maison. They bring a rustic, elegant touch to your outdoor table — the kind of detail that makes a backyard feel that much more welcoming.
6. A Great Summer Read
Because a cozy corner is also a place to disconnect, nothing beats a good book enjoyed outside. We recommend Jardin de senteurs by Quebec author Alexandra Bachand. It's a gentle and inspiring read, perfect for immersing yourself in the world of plants, fragrances, and well-being — a lovely companion for those quiet moments of relaxation under an open sky.
Bonus DIY: A Homemade Hanging Pot
To add a touch of greenery and something unique to your outdoor decor, here's a quick and easy DIY project:
Materials:
- A small terracotta pot
- Jute rope
- A few wooden beads (optional, for a decorative touch)
- A trailing plant, such as ivy or a fern
Steps:
- Cut four pieces of rope to equal length
- Tie the ropes together at one end
- Place the knot under the pot, then distribute the ropes around it, tying them at regular intervals
- Bring the ends together to form a hanging loop
- All that's left is to hang your creation from your pergola and voilà!
SOJA&CO. Summer Playlist
Because a great ambiance is also about the music, we put together a gentle summer playlist perfect for extending that cozy backyard feeling. Whether you're settling into your book or simply soaking up the moment, this musical selection will complete your outdoor haven beautifully.
With a few well-chosen accessories, a touch of greenery, and the right soundtrack, transforming your backyard into an inviting, comfortable space is easier than you'd think. And to fully enjoy it without being bothered by unwanted guests, don't forget to light our Citronella + Palmarosa mosquito-repellent candle by SOJA&CO. All that's left to do is settle in, breathe deeply… and savour the moment!
