Is there anything nicer than partaking in some lawn games, followed by an alfresco meal on a summer evening? I certainly can’t think of one, especially if all of the above is taking place in your own outdoor oasis. Of course, creating the backyard of your dreams can cost a pretty penny — but it doesn’t have to. “New patio furniture is great, sure, but it’s such a to-do (and expensive!),” says Senior Home Editor Jessica Dodell-Feder. “You can easily refresh your outdoor space with smaller touches. Think about your patio or deck like your living room — a new lamp or throw pillow can totally upgrade the look — and the same is true outdoors.”
As someone who’s been writing about all things home-related for the past five years, I’m inclined to agree. Got an old picnic table? Zhuzh things up with fun placemats and servingware. Concrete patio? Give it more depth with a stylish area rug. These are my top five tips for taking your outdoor space to the next level, and you’ll find everything you need at Walmart, starting at just $3.
Let there be light
If there’s one thing that will create a warm, inviting ambience, it’s lighting. Add some whimsy by hanging string lights, which provide a soft, cozy glow, and place rechargeable lamps on outdoor tables to show off your delicious meals. By illuminating things from different angles (aka “layered lighting”), you’ll give your space more dimension.
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I find these Edison-style bulbs so charming, and you’re getting 24 feet of string with this set. (You can connect multiples together if you’re lighting up a larger space.) They’re designed to endure the elements, and the bulbs themselves give off a fun vintage vibe.
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At the risk of sounding like a wimp, I’m going to admit something: I have a phobia of candles! That’s why, when I spotted lamps like this on a friend’s outdoor table during a party, I made a note to purchase some for my own outdoor setup. Since there are no cables to deal with, you can move them all around the yard, and they’re even water-resistant in case there’s a surprise shower. This one also has six light colors to choose from — just tap to change things up.
Go green
I live in a city, meaning my “yard” is really just a small patch of concrete. That said, adding a few potted plants has really “spruced” things up, making the cold, stark space feel more alive. You could do the same to your deck, porch or patio for an instant transformation.
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This pretty-in-pink planter is small enough to place on side tables and other surfaces, and its modern design, complete with rounded handles, makes it look more expensive than it is. It comes from Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful line, which specializes in stylish home goods at reasonable prices.
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If you love the look of this majestic 20-inch planter but worry that you’ll have trouble lifting it, fear not: According to one reviewer, it’s “oversized and sophisticated looking,” but is “as lightweight as papier-mache … it’s gorgeous.” The textured finish gives off a stone-like appearance, and its weather-resistant design makes it less prone to fading and cracking.
Add tasteful accessories
As with decorating the inside of your home or even putting together an outfit, the right accessories can take a look from drab to fab. Stick to patterns and colors that complement your space and the aesthetic you’re going for, but don’t be afraid to have fun!
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Even the most industrial-looking outdoor space will feel more homey with an area rug to tie things together. I’m digging this neutral beauty, which is both subtle and visual interesting thanks to its cross-cross pattern. Reviewers say it “feels more like the softness of an indoor rug,” so it’s comfy to boot.
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The plain-Jane gray sofa in my living room looks exponentially more elevated now that I’ve added some colorful throw pillows to it, and your outdoor loveseat will too. Gingham is a timeless pattern that’s been especially popular this year, and this pretty pillow will give your backyard a pop of picnic-chic.
Trick out the table
You don’t need to splurge on a new outdoor dining set to impress cookout guests — just rely on thoughtful elements that’ll enhance your existing table. Eye-catching dishware and pretty placemats can make even the most rustic surfaces feel special.
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Can you even with that tomato print? I’m obsessed! Oh, and this plate is made of a bamboo-melamine material, meaning it won’t shatter if you have butterfingers from all of that corn on the cob. And at just $3 a pop? You can stock up on a whole set for a steal. It also comes in floral and olive designs, but I’m partial to this fruity cutie.
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Even if you want the rest of your patio to have a soft, neutral look, you can liven things up with fun placemats. If you ask me, you’ll never go wrong with stripes, and those ruffled edges? Adorable! Be prepared for compliments galore. As one reviewer said, “It’s giving Anthropologie, but at an actual affordable price point.”
Party on
One thing I’ve learned? Being too precious with your outdoor space will keep you from enjoying it to its fullest. Make sure it feels light and fun — a good playlist will set a lively tone and, if you have the space, go ahead and keep some lawn games on hand.
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Yahtzee was my family’s favorite game when I was growing up, and now that it’s been adapted for the outdoors? My red cup runneth over! The dice are made of soft foam, and there’s even a dry-erase scoreboard included. To play, each person takes turns rolling the five dice, attempting to score high points in each category listed on the scorecard. If all five are the same number? Yahtzee!
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It’s not a backyard bash without music, right? This compact speaker can fill a 33-foot space with music and its colorful LED lights will give off a cool effect at night. The rechargeable battery can run for up to 12 hours at a time, and since it’s waterproof, you won’t need to worry about unpredictable weather.
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Finally, if you’re fortunate enough to own a pool, please invite me over. Just kidding — although I do think you should consider treating yourself to this luxurious lounger. The angled backrest will keep you comfortably propped up, and the built-in cup holder is the cherry on the sundae.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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