Creating an Affordable Backyard Oasis this Summer
As the days are slowing getting longer and the temperatures are rising, it’s hard not to begin daydreaming of lazy summer evenings spent entertaining friends, grilling out and gazing at the stars. Interested in adding some pizazz to your current outdoor space, just in time for the warmer weather? There are several ways you can add to your existing setup, without breaking the bank. Don’t overthink it! Start prioritizing.
Twinkle, Twinkle
First of all, make sure you have proper outdoor lighting for dining al fresco, games of cornhole and lounging. Porch lights are standard, but to create more of an inviting atmosphere, consider hanging a few strands of string lights, creating a canopy of lights over your guests. Other great options are large Mason jar candles on the tabletop, a chandelier hung from the trees and additional lighting attached to wooden poles around the perimeter of your outdoor space.
Come on baby, light my fire!
No outdoor entertaining space would be complete without a cozy firepit, ideal for roasting marshmallows, hot dogs and telling ghost stories. Installing your own firepit is relatively simple and inexpensive. A quick trip to the hardware store for bricks or pavers (and a fuel source!) is essentially all you need. Grab a shovel and start digging! Numerous instructional videos are available online to help you create the perfect pattern with your bricks or pavers.
Make it Fun
Now it’s time for some fun! No summer soirée is complete without lawn games such as cornhole, croquet, Frisbee and bocce ball. An inexpensive inflatable pool, water guns, water balloons and sprinkler system are perfect for young kids. Once the sun goes down, set up a movie projector (a large white sheet works well for a makeshift movie screen), pop some popcorn and watch a movie under the stars.