If you live somewhere hot like we do here in Arizona, you know that having a beautiful backyard is one thing… but actually using it is another.

For the longest time, our outdoor space looked great, but once temperatures started climbing, it felt almost impossible to sit outside during the day. Between the intense sun and lack of consistent shade, we just weren’t getting the use out of our patio that I wanted.

I kept finding myself searching for something that would make our backyard more functional without sacrificing style and that’s exactly how I ended up with not one, but TWO Veradek umbrella tables.

And honestly? We use them every single day.
If you’ve been looking for a solution for outdoor shade that actually works (especially in extreme heat), this might be one of the best upgrades you can make. Plus, you can use my exclusive discount code CHELSEEHOOD for 5% off sitewide. They don't usually offer discounts, so make sure to use mine to save some money!
Before adding these umbrella tables from Veradek, our backyard had all the basics. Seating, space, and a clean, neutral look but it was missing one major thing: usable shade.

Traditional patio umbrella tables always felt like a temporary solution. They needed constant adjusting, were always tipping over and honestly just didn’t feel very elevated from a design standpoint.
And during Arizona summers? If you’re not fully shaded, you’re not sitting outside. Period.

I wanted something that:
What immediately stood out to me about Veradek was the concept of a patio table with built-in shade + stability.
Instead of adding an umbrella to a table, the entire design is centered around shade being part of the structure. That alone makes such a difference in both functionality and overall look.

1. Built-In Shade That Actually Works
This is the biggest selling point.
The shade coverage feels intentional, not like something you have to constantly adjust throughout the day. Whether we’re sitting down for lunch, working outside, or the kids are hanging out, there’s always reliable coverage.
2. Clean, Elevated Design
If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I love anything that feels neutral, timeless, and a little coastal.
These tables blend right in with that aesthetic. They don’t scream “outdoor furniture”. They feel like a designed part of the space.
3. Made for Heat
Living in Arizona means outdoor furniture has to withstand extreme sun and high temperatures. That was a huge factor for me.
So far, these have held up beautifully without fading or feeling like they’re deteriorating under the heat.
This is where it might sound a little extra but I promise it makes sense.

After getting the first one, I realized how much we were actually using it and how much it transformed the way we used our backyard. I also wanted to make sure it was worth it before I bought the 2nd one, and yep it sure is!
So, I added a second.

Here’s how we use them:
Having two zones has made our backyard feel so much more functional.

Instead of everything being centered around one table, we now have multiple shaded areas which is especially helpful when we have people over.
If you entertain at all or just want your outdoor space to feel more usable, this setup has been a game changer.

If you want to check them out, I’ll link them here. And if you do end up grabbing one, you can use my code CHELSEEHOOD for a little savings at checkout.
I know this is a big question anytime you’re investing in outdoor furniture, especially here.
We’ve had these out in full sun for two years, and they’ve been exposed to everything from intense midday heat to everyday use.

Here’s what I’ve noticed:

That alone makes them stand out compared to a lot of other outdoor pieces I’ve owned over the years.
If you’re trying to decide if this is worth it, here’s my honest take.
It’s a great fit if you:
It might not be for you if:
For us, it checked every box.
If you’ve been considering one, you can use my code CHELSEEHOOD for 5% off.

It’s automatically applied at checkout and just gives you a little savings if you’ve already decided it’s a good fit for your space, plus it works sitewide. Veradek rarely offers discount codes, so take advantage!

Beyond their umbrella tables, Veradek has so many other thoughtfully designed pieces that I’ve ended up adding to our backyard over time.

Two of my favorites are their Demi Chill Side Table and the Brixton tray table.

The Demi Chill Side Table is honestly one of those “why didn’t I have this sooner?” pieces. It looks like a sleek, modern side table but doubles as a hidden cooler that can hold dozens of drinks and keep everything cold all day, even in extreme heat.

It’s perfect for entertaining because guests can just grab a drink without running inside, and it still blends seamlessly into the space.

I also have the Brixton tray table, which is such a versatile piece. It functions as both a storage table and a removable serving tray, making it ideal for pool days, snacks, or even just everyday use . What I love most is that all of these pieces are designed to withstand serious weather (which is a must in Arizona), but still feel elevated and design-forward, which is honestly hard to find in outdoor furniture.

Veradek also has some amazing planters! They're chic, gorgeous and also withstand the elements whether thats cold or heat.

Sometimes it’s the pieces you don’t originally plan for that end up making the biggest difference. That’s exactly how I feel about these.

They didn’t just add to the look of our backyard they completely changed how we use it. We spend more time outside, it feels more functional, and it honestly just makes everyday life feel a little more elevated.

And in a place like Arizona, where the heat can easily keep you indoors, that’s something I don’t take lightly. If you have any questions about these Veradek pieces that I shared, please leave a comment below or DM me on Instagram!
