Your outdoor space is part of everyday life. Whether it’s coffee on the lanai, an afternoon by the pool, or winding down with neighbors after sunset, the patio is where it all happens. That’s why timing your outdoor furniture purchase is so important. It can mean the difference between waiting months for your set or enjoying it right when you want it most.
Here’s what to know about when to shop, what to expect after ordering, and how to make the process stress-free.
Ordering for Delivery During Season and Why Timing Matters
Summer in SWFL may be considered the “off-season,” but it’s actually one of the best times to buy outdoor furniture. This is when we make room for new collections, which means you can score brand-new outdoor furniture at up to 60% off.
It’s also smart to order early if you want furniture ready for “season.” While season traditionally kicks off in January, more and more homeowners are enjoying Southwest Florida as early as October. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid shipping crunches and be ready to host family and friends when the busy season arrives.
Take a virtual tour of our showrooms in Naples, Bonita Springs, and Sarasota to preview our outdoor furniture groups and get inspired.
Special or Custom Orders vs. Buying In-Stock Furniture
If you’re looking for something uniquely yours, custom orders allow you to choose fabrics, finishes, and configurations that fit your exact style. On average, you’ll want to allow 8 weeks for most custom orders, though that can vary depending on the manufacturer.
With custom orders, you get exactly what you want. The tradeoff is time. The most common delay in timing comes from the fabric. Manufacturers stock a large assortment of fabrics, but sometimes a specific option may be delayed by the fabric supplier.
For example, if you order a Castelle dining chair with a Sunbrella fabric and Sunbrella happens to be missing a key yarn component, that delay will ripple down to Castelle, and to any other manufacturer using that fabric.
If you’d rather not wait, buying in-stock furniture is always the fastest option. At Elegant Outdoor Living, we can even hold your in-stock purchase in our warehouse for up to 90 days at no charge, so your patio is ready when you are.
Quick Ship Options and Manufacturer Turnaround Times
Lead times vary, but most outdoor furniture arrives within 6–8 weeks. Some lines ship faster, in as little as 4 weeks, while others can take closer to 24 weeks. U.S.-made pieces usually arrive sooner than imports, but it depends on demand and supply chain conditions.
A couple of years ago, shipping delays stretched to six months or more, but things have improved a lot since then. Still, fabrics can occasionally cause delays. Our best advice? Plan ahead so that if something unexpected happens, you won’t miss out on enjoying your patio when the season starts.
Tips for Planning Your Outdoor Space Purchase in SWFL
- Shop in the Summer for the Best Deals – It’s our off-season, and the perfect time to save.
- Plan Ahead for Season – If you want your patio ready by October or January, order early.
- Consider Custom vs. In-Stock – Custom means personal style, in-stock means instant enjoyment.
- Ask About Quick Ship – Some lines can ship faster; we’ll help you navigate options.
- Lean on Our Team – At Elegant Outdoor Living, we’ll guide you through fabrics, finishes, and layouts that fit both your home and our coastal lifestyle.
Shop the Best In-Stock Outdoor Patio Furniture in Naples, Bonita Springs, and Naples
The best time to buy outdoor furniture in Southwest Florida depends on your goals. If you want the biggest savings, summer is your season. If you want something customized, order early so it’s ready for you in the fall or winter. And if you want it now, in-stock furniture is always the quickest way to enjoy your space.
At Elegant Outdoor Living, our goal is simple: to help you create an outdoor space you’ll love year-round. Contact us today or stop by one of our showrooms in Naples, Bonita Springs, or Sarasota to find the best patio furniture for your lifestyle.