15 ways to prepare for outdoor entertaining
Summer is in the air, and for many people that means outdoor entertaining. But after the long winter hibernation, your outdoor space might be looking a little rough around the edges.
Ready to give your space a makeover? Here are 15 tips to help you get that outdoor space in shape for a summer of enjoyment with family and friends.
- Add bold colors. Incorporate your favorite colors into your space with furniture, rugs, colorful planters, and tabletop décor.
- Paint. Nothing livens things up quicker than a fresh coat of paint. Whether it’s your outdoor furniture, a deck, or that old fence, a paint job gives you a fresh look and helps protect things, so it’s an easy win-win.
- Go green. Somehow it just doesn’t look like summer without flowers and greenery. Bring your space alive and give it color with some strategically placed plants and flowers.
- Make unique planters. No need to stick to boring old flower pots. How about an old tire, wheelbarrow, or bath tub? Give your space some originality.
- Light the space. Adding lighting to your outdoor living space can really dress it up and keep the fun going long after dark. Inexpensive string lights are a great option.
- Arrange the seating. Cozy up your outdoors with garden stools, woven chairs, or a bench with colorful throw pillows.
- Keep the elements out. Add an awning, screened porch, or pergola to your outdoor living space to give it more shade and shelter.
- Make it private. If you want to dress up your space and make it more private, consider some colorful outdoor draperies that will withstand the elements.
- Just add water. Water features are always a fun addition to an outdoor living space. You can even create your own fountain out of a nice container and common irrigation tools or find other inexpensive ways to add water.
- Add a fire pit. A fire pit brings a warm, cozy feeling to your outdoor space. Just make sure it has a screened cover so you don’t send burning ashes over to the neighbor’s house.
- Use space-saving furniture. If your outdoor space is a little tight, think about space savers such as collapsible tables that you can tuck away when not in use, or storage boxes that double as extra seating or tables.
- Liven up the old fence. That old fence can quickly come alive by giving it some fresh paint, hanging some planters, or hanging up an arrangement of old gardening tools.
- Turn it inside out. If you want to bring some of your indoor coziness outdoors, add some accessories such as comfortable indoor-outdoor pillows, mood lighting, or candles.
- Bring on the shade. Is your outdoor space too bright and hot when the sun is out? Install a large patio umbrella or a simple rod and curtain you can draw.
- Don’t forget the outdoor bar or kitchen. For entertaining guests, there’s nothing like the convenience of being able to cook and serve right there in your outdoor space.
Try these tips to spruce up your outdoor living space and get ready for a summer of fun!