The time has come to enjoy some outdoor living and entertainment. If you live in an area with all four seasons, you know how important this time of year is to get out and enjoy the sunshine. If your climate is toasty and outdoor appropriate year-round, you know how frequently you’re outside on the patio, or hangin’ in your screened porch area.
Having an inviting and cozy outdoor living space provides the perfect spot for relaxing on your own or entertaining with a picnic or dinner party. So let’s make sure it is styled and decorated in a way that is primarily functions but with a touch of your personal style. Here are ten outdoor living essentials and decor ideas to inspire you!
1. String Lights
The first staple in any put door space is the string lights. When you pull up to a home and see those lights hanging, you just know you’re in for some cozy vibes. Hanging string lights (or fairy lights!) creates a magical ambiance and sets the tone for the night to come. Drape them over pergolas, along fences, or across trees for a warm, inviting glow. You can even put a smaller version of fairy lights on your patio table, woven into your tablescape.
2. Outdoor Seating
If space allows, create a dedicated area for either dining. Set up a casual dining area with a stylish outdoor table and chairs set. Whether you can only fit a small bistro table or you have the room for a full 8-person dining set, it’s nice to have a set area to enjoy your coffee in the morning or host a large group. Make sure the materials you decide on will withstand the elements! and add decorative touches like placemats, lanterns, and centerpieces.
3. Shade Options
When it comes to creating the perfect outdoor oasis, shade options are a must. Think umbrellas, pergolas, or retractable awnings. These handy additions not only keep you cool and protected from the sun’s rays, but they also add a stylish flair to your space. Imagine lounging under a chic umbrella with a good book, or enjoying a meal with friends under a charming pergola. And let’s not forget the convenience of a retractable awning, which gives you shade when you need it and sun when you don’t. With these shade solutions, you can enjoy your outdoor area comfortably and beautifully, no matter the weather!
4. Outdoor Rugs
A weather-resistant outdoor rug is a cozy touch to add to your patio or deck. Not only does it define the seating area, but this is an area of your decor where you can get playful. Feel free to brighten things up and add pops of color or a pattern, or even add dimension with some playful textures on your rug. This is an opportunity to have some fun and express your personal style.
5. Outdoor Cushions and Throws
Another way to express your style is with the addition of comfy cushions and throws. It’s all about the accessories when you are adding the finishing touches to a space. And pillows are the perfect way to do so. Use vibrant, weather-proof pillows/cushions and throws to add some comfort to your outdoor living area. Mix and match patterns that compliment your weatherproof rug for a lively look. After all, we are outside! So things should be bright, fresh, and welcoming to guests.
6. Planters and Greenery
No space, and we mean NO SPACE is complete until there are some plants incorporated in there! As you would assume, your outdoor area or screened-in porch is no exception. You can go big or small here, depending on what your space allows. Incorporate various planters with lush greenery and colorful flowers. If you have a patio, no matter how large or small, you simply must have some plants. Use different sizes and shapes of planters to add dimension and visual interest. If you don’t have a green thumb, go faux! Nothin’ wrong with that! Any low-maintenance hack is fine by us!
7. A Fire Pit
Did someone say s’mores? A fire pit is another staple when it comes to leveling up your outdoor living space. It will not only provide warmth on cool nights but also serve as a focal point for your outdoor space. There are built-in options, portable fire pits, and even some small and simple tabletop options. Not into the whole open flame thing? Add some flameless candles to mimic the look, and still keep it cozy.
8. Outdoor Art
Of course here at Frame It Easy we are all about the art! There is no wrong place for a frame. “But I’m outdoors, I don’t have any walls out there!?”. Not. A. Problem. Allow me to introduce you to our EaselMate™. This acts as an easel for any of our Wood or Metal frame styles up to 13″ x 19″. It is easy to install taking only seconds and adjusts to any angle that you want it to, making it perfect for any tabletop display! Our EaselMate™ makes it easy to stand up frames and create beautiful displays on your table, counter, or shelves.
Things You Can Display In Your EaselMate™ In Your Outdoor Living Space
- Family Photos
- Ingredients List
- Pets
- Nature Art
- Wildlife Photography
- Pressed Plants
Head over to our accessories page and click on EaselMate™ which will bring you directly to the product. Don’t make any “But I don’t have any walls” excuses around here! Display some artwork won’t ya!
9. Outdoor Bar Cart
If you love entertaining, consider setting up an outdoor bar area. Imagine a hot summer day and the sun is shining on your face. You just finished up some yard work and now it is time to kick back and relax. Maybe you reach for a spritzer while you sit back and admire your lawn. Or maybe you have some iced tea ready to go to quench your thirst. (A bar cart doesn’t always have to equal booze people!) A designated beverage area keeps things organized. The kids run up and replenish their cups there, without going in and out of the house!
Final Thoughts
Outdoor living accessories are the cherry on top of your backyard bliss! From twinkling string lights that set the mood, to plush cushions that invite you to sit and stay awhile, these little touches make a big difference. They help you create a space that’s not only beautiful but also comfortable and welcoming for friends and family. So, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, the right accessories can turn any outdoor area into your favorite spot at home. Embrace the joy of outdoor living and let your personality shine through every detail!
