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}
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.
Then I mixed in a few colorful pillows and a lantern from Garden Ridge.
Originally, 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.
I planted a few new flowers {in existing pots}, added a Patio Egg to keep the mesquitoes away and… DONE!
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.
