Last summer  was my initial “investment” in the patio project.  I didn’t want to spend a lot of money, but I knew that I had to start somewhere, so the World Market Outdoor Furniture Sale was my first stop.  **TIP:  Apparently they have this sale annually,  mid-June to July, so if you plan ahead and watch for it, you can save BIG time.  I just happened upon the sale last year and a sales associate told me their goal is to have everything cleared out by July 4th.**

I ended up choosing this Catalina Occasional Deep Bench (it’s seriously deep – probably twin bed size!), Occasional Chair, Coffee Table and Side Table.  It took a little extra work to acquire the set (my local store didn’t have them all), but between my mom and I, we did it.  And even better, everything was 50-75% off because they were on sale (and some were store displays)!  {Retail value:  $600, Actual cost: $250}

Next up, I ordered a rug from Target {approximately $70}

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This summer I decided to add COLOR.

First I bought a slipcover for the bench and chair cushions (the day the went on sale because I was watching for the email)!  Actually, I bought a few so I can change them out – red, turquoise and off white.

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Then I mixed in a few colorful pillows and a lantern from Garden Ridge.

DSC_0007smOriginally, I thought some flameless candles from there would work too… but they melted after about 10 minutes in the heat.  So I went online and found these fab ones that are made specifically for the out of doors.  I like that they flicker, have an optional timer, and their glow isn’t that fake bright orange.

DSC_0016smI planted a few new flowers {in existing pots}, added a Patio Egg to keep the mesquitoes away and… DONE!

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I know it will probably always be a work in progress, but at least it’s cheerful and it’s a good start.

Cheers to prettying up the porch.  Now I just need to have a porch party to break it in!

PS- If you like the succulent tower, I’ve got instructions for how to make one here.