5 STEPS TO PATIO PERFECTION

After a very long, very snowy winter here in Utah, believe me – I’m ready for some sunshine and backyard fun. And just in case you’re wanting to get out there and use your patio too, here are five steps to make your patio become entertainment central!

Today’s post is part of our monthly blog hop. We’re all featuring outdoor spaces today in hopes that we can help you get ready to enjoy this summer like never before!

If you’re arrived here from Amie at Meme Hill, then I know you’ve already been well supplied with ideas! Amie is a good friend of mine, and a very talented designer. I always love seeing her work her magic.

Let’s jump into my five easy and very do-able ways to get your patio and backyard ready for some fun summer entertaining (and relaxing, of course).

1. Store backyard entertaining essentials in a handy spot

Nothing ruins the fun of a party quicker than feeling stressed and frazzled, am I right? To make it easier on myself when I’m hosting an outdoor party or dinner, I try to keep my patio hutch stocked with the essentials that we use every time we entertain outside – paper goods, plates, serving utensils, etc.

This hutch is perfect because it has closed storage for the not-so-pretties, and open shelves for decorating.

It keeps the essentials handy for less pre-party hassle. You could achieve the same result by designating a specific shelf in your pantry as your outdoor entertaining shelf. Keeping all your supplies stocked and together will making entertaining a breeze.

2. Create backyard activity zones

It’s easy to set up an outdoor space if you tackle it just like an indoor space. Create “activity zones” where specific things happen.

Eating zone – check!

Relaxing zone – check!

Visiting zone – check!

S’more making zone – check!

Just decide what you like to do in your backyard, and designate a spot for that activity. Pretty soon you’ll have your whole backyard or patio pulled together.

3. Make it as cozy as an indoor room

Use all the things you would inside to make your outdoor “room” cozy and inviting – pillows, throws, rugs – whatever makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Of course, you have to be mindful of protection from sun and rain for things like rugs and pillows. Just make sure they’re either shielded from the elements, or made specifically for outdoor use.

4. Create special little backyard spaces

I love adding a little bit of whimsy or surprise to make a backyard feel really special. Maybe a bench tucked away in a shady corner or a birdbath bubbling in a  quiet flower bed. Someplace with that “secret garden” feel will really make your backyard feel special.

5. Use lighting to create patio ambiance

If you’re entertaining at night, you can’t beat some cafe or twinkle lights or candles to really add a special party feel.

We bought these cafe lights last year, and have had so much fun watching the sun set while the patio takes on the twilight twinkle.

Of course, if you don’t have cafe lights, twinkle lights (just like you use on your Christmas tree), or candles give the same romantic feel.

Hoped you picked up an idea or two that will help you enjoy your patio to its fullest this summer. Now hop on over to my dear friend Joan at 2 Ladies & A Chair. I can’t wait myself to see what Joan has up her sleeves for her outdoor spaces this year!

SHOP THE POST

(Here are affiliate links in case you want to create this look in your backyard!)

And here’s today’s entire tour. Enjoy all that outdoor beauty!

Kathleen at Lindsay Hill Interiors (you’re here!)

Joan at 2 Ladies & A Chair

Sheila at Maison de Cinq

Tamara at Citrine Living

Kim and Lacey at Styled with Lace

Amie at Meme Hill

Thanks for stopping by today, friends! Hope you have a wonderful week, and the best summer ever!