outdoor decor that won’t break the bank

Last week, I found these Adirondack chairs on sale for $30 and quickly ordered 4 for extra seating around our pool.  Even though I will have to prime and paint them, you just can’t beat the price AND they fold up for easy storage in the winter.  With summer in full swing, there’s nothing like entertaining or relaxing outdoors and I thought these chairs were a great starting point for creating a deck, screened-in porch or patio that’s high on style and easy on the purse strings.  Here are my picks for a fabulous outdoor space, combining texture, foliage and soft lighting on the cheap:

Festive globe string lights and polished nickel outdoor lanterns create a comfy, cozy atmosphere.  Although we’re in the middle of summer, stores are having super sales right now-I got my lanterns last week at Ross-$30 for all three. 

Outdoor grommet panels and an all-weather rug add texture and soften the space, making it feel like an extension of the indoors.

Greenery is a great way to add color and fill in empty spaces.  Boston ferns are a summer staple here in the south, while sweet potato vines spread like wild fire, fill in beds and borders, and are a great addition for containers.  White wax begonias are easy to tend to and bloom all summer long.

This wicker trunk is great for storing magazines, games or pool toys, and doubles as a side table.

Ikea’s banana leaf floor cushion adds extra seating in a pinch.

Throw pillows add a graphic punch with fabric like this and this.  Personalize your space with a monogrammed pillow like this one. 

Light up your night and create a stunning focal point with an abundance of different sized Ball jars.  A dozen costs around $15 at your grocery store…add a votive candle and line them along your patio, hang them from trees, cluster them together or scatter them throughout your backyard. 

Happy decorating!