Finishing Touches

Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer. Whether you plan on entertaining, just spending a quiet weekend at home or have a notebook of wish list projects you want to start, here are some suggestions for putting the final touches on your outdoor room.

Nothing is nicer than sitting by a crackling fire under the stars. The firepit kit below from Lowes is easy to assemble, budget friendly and can be enjoyed that evening.

Pillows aren't the only way to add color to a space. The Beauclaire planters from Ballard Designs are deceptively lightweight and beautiful. Starting at $79.

If you have a covered patio or pergola, why not make your space a truly outdoor room with the addition of draperies? You can purchase them ready made like these from Ballard or you can make them yourself. I'll discuss how-to in a future post, but I can assure you that it's as easy as sewing a straight line.

Finally, there is no easier, more affordable and definitely more rewarding way to add color than with flowering plants. Depending on what you choose, they can provide a summer's worth of beauty and enjoyment, not to mention attracting butterflies and birds to your backyard.

Now get going and have some fun exploring all your options!