Michelle Featured as Outdoor Entertaining Expert in Better Homes & Gardens
We are absolutely thrilled to share some exciting news from the MDE team! Our founder, Michelle Durpetti, was recently featured as a leading expert in Better Homes & Gardens’ latest article, “6 Outdoor Entertaining Trends You Have to Try This Summer.”
Published on May 2, 2025, the article dives into the top outdoor entertaining trends of the year and offers readers thoughtful, creative ways to elevate their summer gatherings. And Michelle’s expert insight takes center stage!
Lighting the Way with Style
Michelle spoke about one of our favorite elements of any event: lighting. As she shared with Better Homes & Gardens, “Layered lighting is key to creating a party-ready atmosphere.” From romantic string lights to dramatic uplighting, her recommendations are all about crafting ambiance that wows guests and encourages mingling.
She encourages hosts to mix string lights, lanterns, recessed pathway lighting, and even projection lighting to transform their outdoor space. Smart, dimmable LED fixtures and wireless, app-controlled systems make setting the perfect mood easier than ever.
Elevating the Outdoor Kitchen Experience
Michelle also weighed in on the evolution of outdoor kitchens, noting that they’ve become much more than just a place to grill. “Outdoor kitchens are becoming more sophisticated and fully equipped, mirroring indoor kitchens in both design and functionality,” she says.
From wood-fired pizza ovens to custom-built stations and smart appliance integration, this trend is all about turning the outdoor kitchen into a social hub—and a design centerpiece.
At Michelle Durpetti Events, we believe in creating unforgettable experiences, and it’s an honor to see Michelle’s dedication to thoughtful, beautifully executed events recognized on a national platform like Better Homes & Gardens.
Michelle’s approach to event design has always balanced innovation with elegance, and her tips in this article reflect her passion for both form and function. Whether it’s lighting that transforms a backyard or a kitchen setup that encourages guests to gather, Michelle’s ideas help hosts everywhere create meaningful moments.
Read the Full Article
To explore all six of the top outdoor entertaining trends for 2025 and see Michelle’s full feature, check out the article here: 6 Outdoor Entertaining Trends You Have to Try This Summer
We’re proud of Michelle and grateful to be recognized alongside other talented voices in the industry. Here’s to a beautiful—and brilliantly lit—summer season ahead! ✨
