These long summer days are fleeting and should be all about relaxation and creating memories with friends and family, especially if you have a beautiful cottage to visit! How many summers actually turn out that way? It’s already August and only now have I managed to take some time to really enjoy.  

Even though it feels late in the season, that doesn’t mean the summer is over! We still have time to get away for vacations or staycations. Maybe a cottage visit?

cottage on lake surrounded by trees

Source|Canadian House and Home

Cottage Visits

The cottage is an important part of Canadian summers. That is often where we make so many of our prized memories.

When we are invited to help with a client’s summer place, easy living options are our mandate so the cottage goers can focus on more important things like afternoons spent lazing on the dock, or curling up in a hammock, or going for a paddle in the lake.

dining area surrounded by windows, rustic light fixture

Source|Canadian House and Home

Cottage Design

The ideal cottage design can offer cues to slow down (as if fresh air and a jump in the lake isn’t enough). A style that offers no fuss and easy relaxation fits the bill. The last thing we want to be concerned about is upkeep. When at the cottage, we want family and friends alike to be surrounded by comforting items like big throws, and chairs they can sink into. Our aim is to keep the space simple, easy to care, comfortable and of course stylish.

rustic living room, tan couches, blue throw blanket

Source|Canadian House and Home

Clean-up should be as breezy as this kitchen.

modern kitchen, blue island and countertops, bar stools, lantern light fixtures

Source|Canadian House and Home

Host Gift Ideas

Now, maybe you don’t have your own cottage but you’re lucky enough to have a friend who wants to host you. The best! But now the pressure is on to be a good guest. Step 1 of Good Guest Protocol: A gift they will really appreciate!

We have all felt that pressure to bring something lovely. Something that the host will be thrilled to receive and you enjoyed buying for them. Something design-wise is great.

Did I just set the bar even higher? No worries! We have pulled together some options that will amaze your host! Stay with me to the end of the post, I’ve gathered some great options.

Just looking at this breezy bedroom gets me thinking of dreamy nights on my next trip out of town.

white bedroom, wicker trunk, white bedspread, white ceiling fan

Source | Canadian House and Home

 

So here’s a list of a few great ideas I know I’d be delighted to give or receive.

Cottage Gift Buying Guide

Terrain Reclaimed Wood Serving Plank

Serving platters come in handy and are often the items we forget to buy ourselves.

rustic serving platter with food

Crate & Barrel Bocce Ball Set

Everyone will have a ball with a chic bocce set!

bocce ball set on grass with case

Williams Sonoma Taste of Europe Cheese Gift Crate – $99.95 

You could supply the cheese night! This spread is great inspiration.

Williams Sonoma Taste of Europe Cheese Gift Crate

Williams Sonoma Cork-Lid Beverage Dispenser

A convenient and useful gift that also looks great. Perfect for water during the day, and sangria at night.
Williams Sonoma Cork-Lid Beverage Dispenser

Williams Sonoma Craft Beer BBQ Set

If you’re only going up for a BBQ and bringing the meat, why not bring some added flavour?

Williams Sonoma Craft Beer BBQ Set

Pendleton Star Wheels Blanket

A cozy throw is always appreciated.

Pendleton Star Wheels Blanket

Terrain Marble Edge Serving Board

The marble adds a touch of sophistication. This is great if your host is only a little bit rustic.

Terrain Marble Edge Serving Board

Crate & Barrel – Breville Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker

Crate & Barrel - Breville Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker

9. Williams Sonoma Margarita Glasses, Set of 6, Multi-Color

A kistchy gift that is a ton of fun!

Williams Sonoma Margarita Glasses, Set of 6, Multi-Color

 

Enjoy your stay 😉

See more amazing cottages in the Canadian House and Home gallery.