A few simple ways to freshen up your outdoor space and get ready for entertaining this summer.
Light It Up
If your get-together will continue into the evening, illuminate the party area with strings of lights encircling an umbrella, wound around tree trunks or run along cables suspended above partygoers’ heads. Candle-filled or solar lanterns, placed on tables and at patio edges, are great alternatives if your home doesn’t have outdoor electrical outlets.
Bring the Indoors Out
No patio furniture? No worries! Weather permitting, bring your dining table, chairs, china, glasses and utensils outdoors to turn your fête into a fine-dining experience. Guests will appreciate the extra effort and your carefully-prepared meal will look (and taste) much better served on china instead of a flimsy, disposable plate.
Freshen Up Tired Surfaces
Turn a worn deck into a colorful outdoor room with a few coats of paint and coordinating draperies made from weather-resistant fabric. Sand the deck first to create a smooth surface then coat with exterior deck or porch paint which is specifically formulated to withstand foot traffic and weather.