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Whether summer means grillin’ and chillin’ or throwing festive fiestas, you’ll want your space to look pulled together for whatever lies ahead. To help kick start your inner designer, we thought we’d share some tips and stylish summer savings. 

1. Assess the area(s)
Decide where your summer relaxation or fêtes are going to take place. Deck, patio, pool, backyard, veranda—all of these areas need regular maintenance to keep them looking fresh. If simply thinking about the process makes you want to go back into hibernation, you can always hire a professional for help. If you decide to go it alone, the following tips will guide you through the process (hint: baby steps).

2. De-clutter
Clearing that top layer of stuff away will make some big progress. We cleared off our deck a few weekends back by removing broken and faded flowerpots, along with random sticks and debris littered about from storms. Decide what will stay in the space and what needs to go. If your hammock is broken and you know you’ll never use it again, toss it. Have a decent table, but the chairs are looking ratty? Get rid of the chairs and decide whether replacing them is worth it, or whether a shiny new set is a better use of time and money.

3. Plan ahead
Plan your spaces around their functions. Whether you’re integrating new pieces into a pre-existing design or starting from scratch, you’ll need to determine whether a given space can accommodate what you plan to use it for. Eating, grilling, reading, splashing by the pool, sunbathing, and playing corn hole all have different spatial needs. If you’re having trouble visualizing, try jotting down some ideas—even doodling helps!

4. Prep the space
You don’t need to plant an entire garden or start taping off the perimeter for that pool you’ve always wanted—let’s just keep it simple. Give your greens a good manicure—tame the shrubs with some pruning, mow the lawn, edge the sidewalks, yank the pesky weeds out of your flower beds, and put down a fresh layer of mulch, adding some colorful annuals if you can. Use a pressure washer to clean discolored sidewalks, walkways, brick, and decks.

5. Spruce it up
By the time you’ve reached this step in the process, you should already have a pretty good idea of what you need to add or take away from your space. Maybe you’ve decided on a complete makeover (not plastic surgery at this stage of the season). Or maybe all you need is a little touch up here and there. The chaise lounges you have will look refreshed with new umbrellas and sun-fade resistant pillows. Try adding a splash of color to your dining area with an indoor-outdoor rug. Trade out your chipped melamine dining ware for something more festive. When the “red, white, and blue” 4th of July decorations need to go, try transitioning into tropical luau hues with easy-to-update pillows, table runners, and thematic accessories. Add candles or flame-free mood lighting! Hurricanes, torches, tea lights, lanterns, string lights, and floating pool orbs all add to the ambiance of your evening entertaining.

We’ve rounded up some fantastic outdoor furnishings that will help you create an inviting space you’ll want to share with your family and friends. And don’t fret if you’ve procrastinated…you’re just in time for lots of great outdoor deals!

Pier 1 could almost be your one-stop shop for current and affordable trends for every entertaining theme. Currently select outdoor is up to 40% off.

Carrying a variety of brands, All Modern has a furnishings solution for every patio problem. Right now up to 60% off on outdoor.

CB2 has some of the coolest outdoor furniture at unbeatable prices. Right now select outdoor furnishings are up to 30% off. This colorful chaise will add cheer to any lazy pool day.

If your favorite transitional to modern shop is Crate & Barrel, you can score up to 40% off select outdoor furniture. Not only are the frames weather-resistant, but C&B increases the value with Sunbrella upholstered cushions & umbrellas. We’ll be sharing more about Sunbrella and other summer-loving fabrics in a few weeks.

You can never go wrong with Joss & Main’s stylish finds. A variety of brands for a very individual look and for a very good price.

You’ll be bringing effortless style to your balcony with this little all-weather wicker dining set. We think it’s cool enough to use as a bistro table in your kitchen too! West Elm has up to 40% off outdoor going on right now.

Though not on sale, we are in love with these lantern style string lights from Terrain. They also have a fantastic selection of pots and planters for your potted annuals and herbs.

Hopefully we’ve inspired you to get your outdoor living space outfitted right in time for the upcoming lazy days and warm evenings of summer!

Written & edited by Emilie Kyle & Cassandra Reinhart