Decor

Holiday Decor That Goes Quickly: The Intentional Picks I’m Buying Now

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

It feels like the holidays sneak up faster and faster every year. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the best decor doesn’t stick around for long. Though fall has just begun to emerge from a very hot summer, I always keep my eye out for holiday decor starting now. This is because the pieces I love most are always the first to go. These are the cozy, neutral finds that make a home feel Christmas-ready without nudging into cheesy territory.

I’ve found that there are five categories of holiday decor that goes quickly (more so than anything else). These are garlands, wreaths, trees, candles, and tabletop decorations. By the time you start shopping around, these pieces are harder to find or incredibly expensive because of scarcity. This year is no different. A few of my favorite holiday decorations have seen an uptick in sales, and I never like the risk of waiting, as restocks aren’t guaranteed.

This isn’t to say you should worry or stress! Instead, it’s a slow, intentional reminder to consider how you’d like your home to look come November and December and see what’s out there. To make this easier, I’ve rounded up the beautiful decorations worth grabbing now.

These simple, cozy touches will make your home feel warm and ready for the season ahead without leading to any disappointment. And when the pressure of holiday entertaining starts up, you’ll have it all squared away ahead of when these months actually do roll around!

Stylish Holiday Decor That Sells Out Quickly

As the holidays are just around the corner, there’s really no better time to start your shopping. I’ll get into all the details below, but if you’re short on time, I’ve compiled my favorite holiday decor that typically sells out the quickest.

Holiday Garlands

Garlands are synonymous with the winter holiday season and the item that emerges before the rest in Christmas collections. They add texture, color, and wintry beauty, so it’s no wonder that they’re always the first thing to disappear from my favorite shops. I love draping one along the mantel for a vibrant centerpiece that draws the eye in. You can also loop one down the staircase for a picture-perfect Christmas scene in your home.

The scent of fresh evergreen is lovely this time of year, but I find it’s easier to achieve that with a candle and rely on faux greenery! These garlands have come such a long way, so you can get that lush, full look without the mess (or the yearly repurchase).

If you’ve been starting to think about your garland this year, don’t wait too long. The neutral, natural-looking ones especially tend to sell out first, since they work in just about any home and don’t scream “holiday” the way some of the more traditional options do.

Holiday Wreaths

A wreath is one of the simplest ways to bring the holiday spirit into your home. Although it’s a classic for framing your front door and making guests feel welcome, there are so many other ways you can bring a wreath into your decor. Place a wreath above the mantel, lean one against a window, hang one above each bed in your home, or hang mini ones from ribbons in your windows. The choices are endless!

Real wreaths are gorgeous, but I’ve been converted into a total faux wreath fan, as the options out there nowadays are so beautifully done and realistic. Many look full and textured in a way that you could only ever get from fresh greenery. I always gravitate toward the ones with soft needles or branches. Outside of classic green, you can opt for red berry wreaths, silver-tinged versions, or frosted twigs. Wreaths are also one of the first thing people pick up as the holiday season draws closer, so if you’ve found one you love, don’t wait.

Christmas Trees

Trees are where I think people tend to wait the longest, but if you’re in the market for a faux Christmas tree or winter-inspired trees to dot around your home or porch, now is the best time to grab them. A mini tree is such a sweet addition to a bedroom, hallway, or even a kitchen counter if you find a super petite size! For larger trees, I have two options I love most: A bold, fluffy traditional evergreen tree or a flocked “winter tree” style, which helps contribute to that soft, coastal feel even during this freezing cold time of year.

Though there’s something to be said for having a real tree, faux make Christmas much more low-maintenance (no shedding) and you can use the same tree for decades. Even if you invest in two so you can rotate between different looks each year, it’ll cost you less in the long run. You can always incorporate real evergreens in other ways, like a garland or vase of boughs.

Winter Candles

With longer nights and darker days, I crave having candlelight around my home to make this time of year feel cozy rather than drab. I have a variety of options for multiple rooms around my home and love mixing scented candles for that warm, seasonal fragrance. I also like using simple, unscented taper and tealight candles for a more understated, elegant glow. These can be placed on tabletops during dinner or lit on top of coffee tables for a warm ambience when you’re cozied up watching a movie.

The scented ones are usually the first to sell out, particularly anything with notes of balsam, cedar, or spiced citrus, since those tend to feel the most like the holidays without being overly sweet. Tapers and tealights don’t always get talked about as much, but they tend to be the things we buy last-minute when we’re prepping for family visits, only to find they’re all sold out. Snag them while you can!

Holiday Tabletop Decorations

Tabletop decor is where you can really have fun layering in little touches, without committing to anything too big. I love using a mix of bells, bowls, vases, and decorative objects and ornaments. You can really add them anywhere around your home. Place a few on a nightstand, sprinkle them on a coffee table, or use these decorations on bookshelves and console tables. Faux gingerbread houses and snowy villages are also an adorable touch for entryway tables or kitchen corners.

These smaller pieces might seem like an afterthought, but they’re often the first things to go because people scoop them up in multiples. I’m always disappointed when I’ve spotted a cute piece for Christmas but it’s disappeared in the rush! So, now is the best time to stock up on these tiny details. They’re what makes a home feel finished and tied together in a big holiday bow. Plus, they’re simple to store and restyle the following year!

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6 Simple Fall Porch Decor Ideas for the Warmest Welcome

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

As summer winds down, these fall porch decor ideas are what I turn to every year to warmly usher in autumn and start transitioning my home design into an aesthetic that matches the coziest season of all. It’s a helpful starting point for a few reasons. Your front porch is the first thing people (including you) see when visiting your home. You want this area to be just as inviting as the interior of your home. Your porch also makes it easier to ease into fall. If you’re not quite ready to put away the breezy summer decor, you can begin with small edits outside, then slowly move inwards to fall bedding or your living room. Like the leaves on the trees, not everything changes all at once! It’s a gradual process and one you can take your time with.

What I love most about decorating a front porch for fall is that it really doesn’t have any rules. It’s more about creativity, adjusting as you go, and incorporating decor you like the look of. You can bring in rich colors, natural textures, and indulge your fun side with a few Halloween-inspired pieces here and there (or go all out—why not?).

If you’re looking for fall porch inspiration, you’ve landed in exactly the right spot. Whether you have a large wraparound porch or a tiny cement entry area outside of an apartment, these style ideas can apply to anyone. Scroll on for six simple fall front porch decor ideas that are as beautiful as the season.

6 Fall Porch Decor Ideas to Embrace This Season

To make it even easier to put together a beautiful fall-inspired front porch, I’ve compiled all of my favorite outdoor decor picks in one place. You can shop by idea further down or pull a handful of pieces from this curated list. From seasonal wreaths to cozy welcome mats to Halloween decorations, I’ve done the searching so you don’t have to. All that’s left is decorating in a way that’s aligned with you!

Add a Seasonal Wreath

Decorating a porch for fall feels overwhelming, especially when you consider the full picture. My best advice is to start simple. It’s true that the smallest changes create the most impact. Case in point? A fall wreath. It highlights your door and, with the right colors and botanicals, signals the move from one season to the next. There are so many beautiful options to choose from, whether you’re a minimalist or full fall maximalist. Faux wreaths are easy to use for many years to come, and real wreaths instantly breathe life into a space. You can try neutral-colored wreaths made of dried wheat, warm amber and rust florals, something with pumpkins and berries, or a simple wreath that feels more timeless. It’s a small investment that delivers a lot of seasonal charm, and if it’s the only thing you do, your porch will still feel put together!

Swap Out Your Welcome Mat

Your next small change that makes a massive difference is swapping out your welcome mat. A seasonal version in a warm autumnal tone, a classic plaid, or even a simple design (like pumpkins) is almost like your house’s way of getting dressed for fall. It’s a little sweater for your porch and an affordable way to embrace the season. A new mat sets the tone for everything else and ties your entryway together in a way that feels finished and inviting. A porch is a great place to combine fall and coastal decor too, so don’t be afraid to layer your doormat over top of a woven rug or a textile with sea-inspired elements.

Add Seasonal Plants and Greenery

Fall has no shortage of beautiful seasonal plants to work with. I personally love using faux flowers, foliage, and greenery as they’re a breeze to maintain and won’t struggle with the changing weather. Plus, you can bring them back out next year, too. Some of the best choices for fall plants include the iconic chrysanthemums, marigolds, and asters. These come in colours that are so reflective of fall, including bright orange, wine red, pink, rust, and gold. Cluster them around your front door or place them in bare corners around your porch. Ornamental kale and cabbage are also great for added texture, as is wheat grass, dried wheat, ferns, and boxwood. Mix a few picks together in varying heights so you get extra dimension and a display that feels well-styled and will carry you through the season. Don’t forget about garlands and trees as options either!

Break Out the Halloween-Inspired Decor

When it comes to a fall porch makeover, there is nothing more fun than leaning into Halloween! I love adding a family of friendly ghosts to our porch, along with plenty of pumpkins and witches’ brooms. A skeleton and crows or bats are always fun ideas, too. The key to keeping it feeling intentional rather than overdone is to stick to a cohesive color palette. Black, white, and orange are a classic combination, but consider toning down the shade of orange into a dustier hue. Natural pumpkins (or light green and white) mixed with black accents and white ghost figures can look just as striking and a little more elevated. It’s proof that Halloween doesn’t have to be creepy or cheesy; it can look very chic, too!

Switch Up Your Pillows and Cushions

It’s easy to forget about front porch seating, and outdoor seating in general when summer comes to an end. But this is another great area for infusing fall into your outdoor spaces. Don’t worry about replacing furniture. Simply update your throw pillows and cushions. Change out your light-colored spring and summer covers for warm plaid, buffalo check, or deep autumnal shades, like moss, rust, eggplant, chocolate brown, or burgundy. Look for textures and patterns like cotton, leafy prints, or even a soft weather-proof velvet that adds depth and warmth. This is another simple fall home decor tip that you can translate inside, too.

Bring in Lanterns and Soft Lighting

The days are growing shorter and that means lighting becomes even more important within design, including outside. While it’s functional, it’s also the best way of adding warmth and ambience to your front porch. Lanterns are one of my favorite ways to add that warm, golden glow. I love tall, black metal lanterns in varying heights filled with LED candles. These create an ambiance that is so inviting from the street (but one that’s not hazardous). Group a few together on either side of your front door and pair with pumpkins and seasonal plants. You can also incorporate pumpkin or leaf lights, string lights, and hanging pendant lights to make the simplest porch feel magical on an autumn evening.

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Decor

Fall Bedding Ideas for Creating a Cozy Sanctuary This Autumn

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

An image of a bed with fall bedding featuring navy and white florals

As the air starts to cool and the days grow a little shorter, the first thing I’m inspired to shift is my bedroom. I always have a few fall bedding ideas swirling through my head, and I’m glad we get three months of this most cozy season for trying a selection of lovely options. With longer, chillier nights, it makes perfect sense to want your bedroom to become the coziest place in your house. So before you bring out all the fall decor in your home, simply start with your bed. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see how quickly the energy shifts. Your breezy summer bedroom truly becomes the best place for sleeping in on crisp autumn mornings and curling up with a good book, a delicious-smelling candle, and a cup of tea.

The best part of a fall bedding refresh is how effortless it is. A new quilt, a different color of sheets, or a throw perfectly draped over the middle are just some of the small edits you can make that make your bedroom settle warmly into the new season. There are so many beautiful bedding options out there, and an infinite list of combinations, meaning no matter what your decor style is, you’ll find an autumnal bedding look that aligns.

So whether you’re ready to fully jump into fall decor, or are taking it slowly, piece by piece, this fall bedding guide is made for you. I’ve rounded up five ideas that bring in the warmth, coziness, and richness of fall to help you create a bedroom you’ll want to spend all your time in.

Stylish Fall Bedding Ideas to Embrace in Your Bedroom

Updating your bedding is such a nice way of embracing the new season, and this is never more true than in fall. It’s the season of coziness, and having a bed that reflects this sentiment really allows you to immerse yourself in all things autumn. Below are a few of my favorite items for recreating the most gorgeous fall bedding ideas in your own space.

Ground Your Room With Warm Details

As we shift between seasons, sometimes it feels better to gently ease yourself into fall. Rather than changing everything around all at once, you can bring in a few small details that start to signal the start of autumn. It gives you time to adjust to a new look and wind down from summer’s bright and airy aesthetics. One pretty way of doing this is by adding a waffle knit or gingham runner laid across the middle or the foot of the bed. You can also add this bit of dimension through throw pillows or blankets. I recommend choosing warm tones like brown or rust, as it brings an instant autumnal quality to the space. With just this small detail, your space instantly feels more grounded, cozy, and full of that classic fall warmth we all love. Layer it on top of white bedding for more contrast or blend it into beige, flax, and buttermilk tones for an earthy mix.

Embrace Earthy Floral Bedding

Florals may be synonymous with spring, but they’re a surprisingly great fall bedding idea, too. The key is choosing the right palette. When you lean toward the deeper, more muted side of the color spectrum, flower prints can feel right at home during this season. I’d pick something such as a green floral quilt or a soft duvet with leaves or botanicals for bedding that feels a touch more interesting, but collected and thoughtfully styled. It looks nice when paired with other fall decor staples, such as warm woods, plush throw pillows, stone textures, and actual plants or flowers held in vases. You can easily use this bedding from the start of fall all the way through to early December.

Stay Timeless with Neutrals and Whites

There is no time of year when bedding in a neutral palette will feel out of place. In the fall, it feels especially warm and soft. To differentiate it from summer, spring, or winter, consider incorporating neutrals through various layers. When your main goal is calm and cozy, you can quickly achieve this through a multitude of textures but in a cohesive palette. Think linen, cotton, chenille, and velvet textures in shades of oatmeal, cream, and beige. I also like adding a subtle pop of color. This is one of the ways I keep a coastal aesthetic running through my bedroom no matter the time of year. A few light blue pillows or a moss green quilt easily do the trick.

Bring in Dark Florals and Prints

If you like the look of florals but appreciate a darker palette to ground your room, this bedding idea is worth saving. Another way that I love making floral prints work for fall is by choosing bedding in deeper shades. A charcoal, navy, or burgundy floral print is an instant focal point in your room. Though this is an eye-catching statement, it won’t feel too maximalist or overwhelm the room. That is thanks to the deeper tones, which bring a moodiness that feels so fitting for the season. When you complement these with brighter whites and lighter neutrals, everything feels fresh and remains balanced. This pairing has an understated elegance that’s well-styled but doesn’t feel stiff or uninviting. For a few final touches, add some soft throws for extra texture and frame your bed with dried flowers, soft lighting, and an atmospheric piece of artwork.

Incorporate Nature-Inspired Greens

There are a few shades that spring to mind when you think of fall bedding ideas, such as burnt orange, deep red, navy, and brown. Though these are beautiful options, I love the idea of incorporating khaki or moss green instead. This specific tone feels fresh but has a richness that other shades of green don’t quite have. It grounds a space like neutrals, but brings a little more pigment. Not to mention, it also feels fitting in coastal bedrooms, much more so than reds and oranges. It’s a soft nod to the changing landscape outside, and translates it into something warm and livable indoors. My suggestion is to color-drench your bed in this shade of green, then add a few layered pillows to complete the look.

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Coastal Chic: The Best Exterior White Paint Colors for Your Home

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

We spend most of our time enjoying our interiors, but this post is dedicated to the beauty of a great exterior paint color. Specifically, all the best exterior white paint colors for coastal homes that truly support your space in embodying this specific aesthetic. The paint color on the siding of your home sets the tone before you even step inside, and when it leans into the creams, bright whites, linens, and greiges, it offers a calm, welcoming quality that both you and guests will love.

If you’re considering refreshing the outside of your house and are interested in choosing between the large selection of coastal white paint shades out there, I know that finding the right shade can be a little overwhelming. Discovering the perfect one that you’ll love for years to come is a big decision. There are so many considerations, such as finding a tone that’ll fit your design style but also match the outdoor surroundings. Or picking a shade that works with the front door color you have in mind or an existing deck or porch.

That’s one of the reasons why I love white and cream exteriors. They look beautiful when natural light pours over them and give your home the laidback (but elegant) feeling that you hope for when living by the sea. Whether you love the brightness of a crisp white or appreciate the soft warmth of a cream or linen hue, keep scrolling for some of my all-time favorite white paint colors for coastal homes.

The Best White Exterior Paint Colors for a Coastal Home

Before we peruse through the prettiest white exterior paint colors, I wanted to share a little bit about the shades I’ve used all around my own home. The exterior of our house has prefinished siding in a shade that’s very similar to Benjamin Moore’s White Dove. The siding is Mastic Cedar Shake Shingles in white, and our shutters are custom-made out of Azek composite. We painted those in Sherwin-Williams Ancient Marble.

For our front door, we selected a Therma Tru option from the Classic Craft Artíssa Collection in Mahogany Grain 6-lite divided in the color Acorn. Our decking is TimberTech, and the color is Slate Gray with cathedral grain. All of the posts are also wrapped in Azek composite, as well as the skirting on the porch. I hope this helps you when it comes to choosing every shade for each feature around your property!

I’ve also put together a shoppable list of paints that you can swipe between to find your perfect shade.

Now, let’s jump into the best white paint shades and the benefits of each.

Bright White

There is no better place to start than with a classic bright white. It’s been a staple for coastal homes for a long time, and it’s no surprise why. A true white is crisp, clean, and classic. It doesn’t fade with the trends, and it’s incredibly versatile when it comes to matching it with front and back door shades, outdoor furniture, and landscaping. I recommend a true white like Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace or Sherwin-Williams Pure White if you want to give your home a fresh, just-painted look that won’t feel dated in a matter of months or years. It boosts your curb appeal and really gives it a classic Cape Cod or New England coastal cottage look. Once you have this base, consider shutters painted in navy or charcoal gray, or pair it with natural wood accents for a more grounded appearance.

The Best Bright White Paint Colors

  • Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
  • Sherwin-Williams Pure White
  • Backdrop Supermoon
  • Benjamin Moore Oxford White
  • Valspar Ultra White

Soft White

If a bright white is a touch too stark, I recommend taking a look through soft white paint colors. These shades feel a touch more homey and, although they’re still bright, they have a hint of warmth that gives them a more welcoming energy. Think about hues like Benjamin Moore White Dove or Sherwin-Williams Alabaster. You’ll still get the fresh appearance of white, but in a way that’s a tad more relaxed and approachable. If your home is surrounded by greenery, trees, or climbing plants like ivy, I recommend a soft white to serve as the perfect backdrop. This hue will complement a variety of other shades, from neutrals like black and dark brown, to slightly more pigmented shades, such as teal and olive green.

The Best Soft White Paint Colors

  • Sherwin-Williams Alabaster
  • Benjamin Moore White Dove
  • Glidden Linen Ruffle
  • Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee
  • Backdrop Moonlight

Warm Cream

Maybe you’d like to lean into that warmth for the exterior of your home, but aren’t interested in committing to a beige, gray, or brown shade. In this case, a warm cream is the perfect happy medium. These colors give your home a cozy and inviting atmosphere from the moment you pull into the driveway. To get this look, consider colors like Benjamin Moore’s Navajo White or Sherwin-Williams’ Antique White, as these bring a softness to the exterior of your house. Whereas standard white hues might feel a little flat, cream brings depth and warmth. They’re the sun-soaked versions of white paint, which feel perfectly placed on a coastal home exterior. You can pair them with rattan, wood, woven materials, and soft colors like beige, tan, and greige.

The Best Warm Cream Paint Colors

  • Glidden Creamy White
  • Behr Natural White
  • Benjamin Moore Chatsworth Cream
  • Farrow & Ball Pointing
  • Behr Belgian Cream

Greige-Leaning White

I’ll never underestimate the power of a great greige paint color! Within your interiors, this shade that mixes gray and beige is a beautiful option that brings the perk of both colors into one. It’s versatile, flexible, and looks great on your exterior walls, too. For the outside of your home, I recommend a lighter greige that’s closer to white. You can look to colors like Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster or Benjamin Moore’s White Wisp, which give a neutral, grounded quality to your home but feel as breezy as a traditional white. Greige-leaning whites also look wonderful on a variety of home styles, whether you’ve embraced a total coastal cottage vibe or have a modern farmhouse home close to the beach. They’re a family of soft colors and look nice when contrasted with navy, black, charcoal, olive green, and chocolate brown. If you love white but crave a little more nuance, greige is the one.

The Best Greige Paint Colors

  • Farrow & Ball Slipper Satin
  • Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist
  • Backdrop Harvest Moon
  • Benjamin Moore Classic Gray
  • Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa

Off-White

Like cream, linen and off-white shades bring a depth that plain white hues don’t always have. These usually have a little more yellow mixed in and feel right at home in sunny locations or coastal areas where you’d like to infuse a little more light! I’d recommend looking at shades such as Farrow & Ball Wimborne White or Benjamin Moore’s White Opulence, as these all have a quiet elegance. Creams don’t demand attention; they simply attract it naturally. It’s the perfect shade if you want a quiet-luxury-gone-coastal vibe. They’re rich and luxurious. I’ve also included a few shades with cooler undertones on this list too, so you can choose what color temperature feels best for your home and surroundings. You can go one of two ways with this shade, depending on your final selection. Try them with warm woods and textures or cooler stone and metal details.

The Best Off-White Paint Colors

  • Behr Off White
  • Backdrop Moonstone
  • Benjamin Moore White Opulence
  • Sherwin-Williams Marshmallow
  • Farrow & Ball Wimborne

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Nightstand Decor Ideas: Stylish Ways to Make Your Bedside Table More Beautiful

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Your nightstand might simply feel like a functional piece of furniture, but I believe it can offer so much more to a bedroom than simply a place to put your alarm clock or glass of water. It might come as a surprise, but I think incorporating a few nightstand decor ideas is a lovely way to set the tone of your room and contribute to its overall aesthetic. Your bedside tables are some of the first things you see when you wake up and the last before you fall asleep, so giving it a little decorative attention is always a good idea.

I’m a big believer in details, and in most corners of my home, you’ll find intentional touches and thoughtfully placed decor that just give that extra little bit of personality to a space. Though big-picture things matter, such as paint color or furniture choices, it’s these small details coming together that really exude your style and set the tone. This is particularly true for your main bedroom (and any other bedrooms in your home, from cute kids’ rooms to guest bedrooms). With the right decor on your nightstand, you can set an atmosphere of calm and help create a space that’s conducive to sleeping and relaxing. And because you’re doing so through smaller touches, like nightstand decor, you don’t have to gather up a big budget or prep for a large overhaul.

This guide to nightstand decor ideas is for everyone, especially if you’re feeling called to make some summer decor changes right now all around your home. Whether you have matching bedside tables with ample surface area to work with, one compact nightstand, or an even smaller configuration, you’ll be able to pull inspiration for any setup.

22 Chic Nightstand Decor Pieces to Shop

Before we get into these decor ideas, I wanted to create a collection of nightstand decor items you can shop. You might already have an idea in mind of how you’d like to decorate or are just looking for that perfect finishing touch, in which case, I hope you find it here!

I’ve also included a handful of beautiful nightstands to consider if you’re in the market to upgrade what you already have. These range from coastal-inspired tables to smaller options for bedrooms that have a little less space.

Nightstand Decor Ideas to Elevate Your Bedroom

Here are five lovely ways to decorate your nightstand, all of which can be edited to your own style preferences and adjusted to fit your nightly routine.

Add Fresh Flowers and Plants to Your Nightstand

One of my favorite ways to dress up a nightstand is through fresh blooms. In fact, this is one of my go-to styling techniques in general for any corner of your home. A bouquet of stems or a plant you love can effortlessly and instantly elevate a surface. As a little bonus, it often adds a nice fragrance to your room, too. I try to reflect the seasons in my choice of flowers, opting for fluffy blooms in spring and summer and changing it to branches or evergreen sprigs in winter.

Other nice additions are houseplants and succulents. I’d suggest choosing a low-maintenance variety and one with a small footprint. This breathes life into your bedroom without requiring too much care. Faux plants are worth considering too, since so many look unbelievably realistic nowadays and have none of the care requirements. You can also get creative with the vase or planter you choose, as this is another easy way of bringing color and texture to your nightstand.

Create Layers with Books, Trays, and Decorative Objects

Nightstands can feel a little bland when they lack dimension. When you add just a few levels and layers, even this small space can feel beautifully designed. Some of the best ways to do this are through decorative items in various heights and widths. You can create a blend with stacks of books, catch-all trays, vases, and boxes.

That said, I know that nightstands often have limited area to work with. Try to stick to just two or three items if you don’t have much room. I also recommend choosing multipurpose objects, like baskets, trays, or boxes, which look stylish themselves, but bring functionality to your bedside table, too.

Create Ambience with Lamps and Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of a bedroom. It truly can be the difference between a dark and dingy space and one that feels welcoming and restful. Bedside table lamps are part of this narrative, and choosing carefully is important for these nooks, too. If you’re a fan of reading before bed, you’ll want light that’s bright enough to see but also calming for your senses. The shades and lamp bases are great at contributing color and personality to the room as well. Trying to save space? Hanging pendants and wall-mounted lights are ideal.

For coastal bedrooms like mine, I recommend opting for neutral lamps in soft hues reminiscent of the coast. You can always swap out the shade if you want a little more color, but you will at least have a great timeless foundation. Think about ease, too. Lamps with accessible switches or tap-to-turn-off functions are essential for making your nightly routine feel effortless.

Add Baskets and Organizers to Your Bedside Table

I think most people know how quickly nightstands can get cluttered. They’re often zones where things get set and left behind, leaving you with a little too much mess to deal with right before bed. To help cut down on the visual and physical clutter, baskets and organizers are exceptional tools. You can stack a few on the bottom shelf of your bedside table or have one small box on the surface for essentials.

Not only are these items useful, but with the right picks, they can look as if they’re part of the decor too. I like the aesthetics of seagrass, rattan, and cane. These woven elements help ground the space and bring natural touches indoors.

Try a Nightstand Alternative

Not everyone has the space for a double set of nightstands, let alone for one. If you have a smaller bedroom where space comes at a premium, there is nothing wrong with doubling down on multipurpose furniture and getting creative. For rooms with limited square footage, try a stool, an ottoman with a wooden surface, a wall-mounted nightstand, or narrower tables. There are also many tiny side tables out there in overall smaller dimensions.

Instead of using a nightstand, you can also rely on your dresser to serve as a space for your nighttime essentials. You can have a jewelry stand or box, books, your favorite candle or essential oils, and your sleep mask all ready to go. Another option for petite sleeping quarters is to have these staples in a fabric organizer box, which you can keep in your dresser or closet or under the bed.

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Elevate Your Home With These Simple Summer Decor Ideas

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Summer brings with it a lightness, one that so wonderfully translates into our interiors. I love seeing parts of it reflected in my home, whether it’s delicate sun rays streaming in through sheer curtains, a glowy, sunset dinner with friends on the patio, or sea-glass-inspired decor that reminds me of relaxing days at the beach.

Though this is a fantastic time of year, I know just how busy it can be, too. That’s why I’ve created this guide to simple summer decor ideas that are easy to recreate and incorporate in your own home. The key here is simple. Our lives are filled with so much already; the last thing you need is a long list of decorating tasks!

The changes you choose don’t have to be over-the-top or budget-draining for them to be impactful. A fresh bedspread, a citrusy candle, a floral kitchen runner, a bedside table with summer staples, a new plant on a shelf—these are all small shifts that lead to living spaces that settle nicely into the season. If you’ve been wanting to refresh your home for summer or reinvigorate it with a little warm-weather energy, I’ve written this just for you. Scroll on for shopping picks and seven simple decor ideas that you can start bringing into your home now.

7 Simple Summer Decor Ideas to Try Around Your Home

If you’re ready to decorate your home in a way that feels as inviting as a warm July day, these simple summer decor ideas will help you do just that. Before you jump into the inspiration and tips, I’ve rounded up a collection of decor for a coastal-inspired home to get you started right away. These feel summery and will seamlessly elevate any room, whether you invest in one special item or several new options.

Refresh Your Bedding

The first thing I love to do with the arrival of a new season is update my bedspread. It’s one of my best design tips for making a room feel completely different while changing very little. I think it’s worth investing in several sets over time, including various comforters, duvets, quilts, coverlets, pillowcases, and sheets. Then, all it takes is a quick reset of the sheets on your bed to make the room feel fresh once more. Throw pillows and decorative covers also effortlessly change the theme and mood you’re hoping to create.

Your bed can serve as a great starting point for designing a room, too. Depending on the specific bedding you choose and your bedframe, you can then decorate in relation to that. In summer, I love lighter, airy fabrics, such as linen and cotton. Cheerful patterns like gingham or florals, and hues such as light blue, white, sage green, and pale yellow all bring in a more summery aesthetic.

Edit Your Tabletop Staples

bedside table with lamp and flowers

Another simple decor idea that isn’t stressful or time-consuming but produces great results is adjusting what’s on your bedside table to create a summery coastal bedroom. Winter and autumn might have warm colors, grounded objects (like stone jewelry dishes or wooden trays), and warming essentials like a candle or cozy socks.

In summer, trade these out for items that meet your needs when the weather is warmer. Add a bright plant or bouquet of flowers. Change your candle out for a scent that smells like salty sea air or citrus. Bring in lighter fabrics and woven textures like rattan. Consider a sunrise-inspired alarm clock or a cooling eye mask. All of these small changes will come together to make your bedroom feel fit for the season overall. You can also apply this design tip to any of the tables around your home, from bedroom nightstands to living room coffee tables to side tables in reading nooks.

Add Small Summer Decor Details to the Kitchen

kitchen with runner rug and purple flowers

Despite being one of the most frequently used places in houses, our kitchens are often forgotten when it comes to seasonal decorating. My biggest goal is to have rooms within my home that all feel cohesive and timeless (no matter what time of year), so I can then come in and make small tweaks to create a sense of summer, or whichever season it is. This is true for my cooking space, too. It doesn’t take much to change it from an everyday space to one that gently mirrors what’s happening in our natural world.

I suggest focusing on two things: textiles and compact decorative objects. Because it’s a kitchen, it should be functional and easy to move around in. You don’t want excessive decor or anything that will get in the way of you cooking, cleaning, working, or entertaining. For textiles, swap out your runner rug or dishwashing mat for versions that feel summery (think: florals, stripes, plaid, or light colors). For small decorative details that won’t feel obtrusive, consider a vase of in-season blooms, petite plants, a summer-inspired utensil jar, and hand soaps that smell like the season.

Add More Plant Life

bench behind couch with blanket and plant

Even if you don’t go out and buy brand-new furniture or invest in a handful of seasonal decor items, you can still rely wholeheartedly on plants to breathe life into your home. Whether faux or real, plants remind us of the great outdoors and all of the bushes, trees, and flowers that are growing and blossoming around us. Their verdant leaves and colorful blooms bring a vibrancy to any shelf, bench, countertop, or table that is often missing in winter or fall.

Some of my favorite ways to bring leafy friends into my home (aside from a bouquet of flowers) are through houseplants in stylish pots, seasonally-appropriate wreaths, potted indoor trees, or a few minimalist branches in a vase. Think outside of the box when it comes to placing them, too. A plant on a bench, a garland across the mantel, a few stems in a windowsill, or plants peeking out from a bookshelf all do wonders!

Swap Out Vases, Vessels, and Storage Containers

Your containers and vessels can contribute to a summery vibe in your home as well. Metal, opaque plastic, dark stone, and deep shades of wood are beautiful but can make a space feel cozier and darker than you might like for the warmest months of the year. A few quick swaps are key to shifting this atmosphere. Think about woven baskets, rattan or raffia, white or chalky ceramics and stone vases, scallop-edged trays, and vases made of colors or glass inspired by the sea.

You don’t have to do this for every part of your home, but I suggest prioritizing the most heavily-trafficked areas or the rooms people spend the most time in. Even if you don’t change out the vessel, consider if you can change what’s in it. Trade autumnal or spring-focused botanicals for summery ones. Replace pinecones and woven decorative balls with glass orbs, shells, or coral pieces. It’s a fun one for allowing your creativity to soar!

Infuse and Direct Light Around Room

When I think of summer, I think of bright, breezy, and light. To begin, think about light. Maybe it’s worth hanging up new curtains or shades that let natural sunlight into the room or feel more etheral in general, such as sheer curtains or options in light blue, cream, or beige. A mirror is an excellent tool for bouncing light around and making a room feel more spacious.

I also like to think about the main colors and textures of each space and how that makes a room feel lighter or darker. If a velvety throw blanket or chenille throw pillows feel too wintery, I’ll bring in a coastal-inspired knit throw and linen covers. An area rug can also instantly illuminate a room, or one layered on top of a darker style. Don’t forget about the small details either. A coffee table book on cozy cabins or artwork depicting snowy scenes will take away from the sunny season ambiance you’re after.

Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Spaces

My last piece of advice is to refresh your outdoor spaces. These are an extension of your home and often become just as important as the rooms you usually gather together in when it’s colder. Channeling energy into a thoughtfully designed porch or an upgraded patio sets the tone the minute you turn up at home or guests arrive. All it takes is a few nicely-placed plants, some lanterns, and a pretty welcome mat to transform this area.

The same goes for decks, patios, balconies, pool areas, and other spaces where you spend time outside. Clean outdoor furniture, replace cushions, bring out tables and surfaces for snacks and sips, and create areas of shade. A gorgeous outdoor room allows you to fully embrace summer and all of its best moments before fall finds its way to us again. Best of luck with your summer decorating!

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Decor

Simple Ways to Upgrade Your Patio This Summer

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Summer living is infinitely better when your patio reflects your style and needs, and sometimes that involves a few thoughtful patio upgrades. If you’ve been eyeing your outdoor space this summer and juggling endless ideas in your head, I’m right there with you. This is something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately, as we’re making our patio bigger this week. It’s no longer level, and I’ve noticed a few pavers popping up here and there. The goal is to create an even space that’s larger, so we can entertain, relax, and host our favorite people.

The good news is, a full renovation and never-ending budget aren’t necessary for designing a space that feels elevated and intentional. I have a deep appreciation for the simpler upgrades and just how much they do for a space.

With design edits and adjustments at the top of my mind, I wanted to share a few simple but elegant methods for taking your patio from basic to beautiful. All of these ideas have simplicity at their heart, whether you’re working with a large patio, a small deck, or another outdoor area where you love spending time.

6 Stylish Patio Upgrades to Embrace This Season

There are so many stylish patio upgrade ideas out there, but today I want to focus on a select handful of tips that make a big impact on both the visual and comfort elements. A beautiful patio makes you want to spend time outdoors, and one that’s comfortable (in multiple ways) will only add to that feeling. With summer around the corner, I’ve gathered six ideas you can incorporate and build from that will quickly take your patio from an outdoor space to a serene oasis.

Before we dive in, I’ve also put some shopping options below that are exceptional at making your patio feel more beautiful, from fresh cushions to stylish planters.

Replace Your Cushions

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a patio refresh, I’m here with a gentle reminder. You don’t have to start from scratch or even completely replace your outdoor furniture. You’d be amazed at how much of an impact cushions have on the overall look of your space. They bring color, texture, and comfort to a patio, and are really a secret hack for changing the aesthetic. You can go from nautical-inspired layout to minimalist coastal cottage through a cushion change alone.

Outside of patios, even small nooks with bistro tables or conversation sets can feel reinvigorated with a new set of cushions. This is nicer on your budget, and allows you to have several colors and patterns on hand, which you can switch up when you feel called to!

Refresh Your Plants and Planters

New pavers, a fresh lick of paint, and brand-new furniture are all big ideas but take ample time, money, and energy. I find that focusing on your plants is a surprisingly easy patio upgrade that overdelivers. Flowers, shrubs, small trees, and even faux plants can instantly upgrade your space. I highly recommend taking a trip to your local nursery or shopping around for fake plants that’ll last you for many seasons. Who doesn’t love decor that breathes life into a space?

Aside from just plants, your planters can also make a major difference. Consider replacing those plastic pots you’ve transferred them in (or cracked stone pots from a decade ago) with options that bring a fresh feel. You don’t have to buy a dozen, as even one or two new pots can give your patio a little more personality.

Add a Pathway to Your Garden

You’ll be surprised at how much more complete your patio feels with designated walkways. Putting down pavers, excavating a path, or designing new stairs from the patio gives a natural flow all around the exterior parts of your home. This creates a natural segue into your garden and other outdoor areas and invites you and guests to walk around and explore different spaces. I think so many of us forget to spend time in all of our outside spots, and don’t always cultivate places that are comfortable to walk or sit in. A great way to start the process is with a pathway.

Whether you choose stones, moss, or another option, this can be a quick weekend project. Don’t forget the lighting either! Solar-powered lights, lanterns, fairy lights, and glowing orbs all cast the prettiest glow over your patio and garden. Over time, you can hone in on different plants, decor, and a design layout that creates a little dialogue between each space.

Invest in a Fountain or Water Feature

So many of us are drawn to water, and whether you live by the coast, a river, or a lake —or wish that you did—a fountain can be a great way to bring this element to you. There are so many nice options to consider, from small, solar-powered models that fill blank corners to larger features that make more of a statement.

Water features aren’t only visual gems for your patio and garden, they’re functional, too. They give pollinators and birds a little spot to rehydrate. Their soft trickle gives your patio a lovely ambience. This noise can also offer respite from noisy streets or neighbors, too.

Lay Down a Rug

If you’re interested in the best possible way to zone your patio or make it feel more livable, it’s by incorporating a rug. Over the years, outdoor rugs have become just as beautiful as their interior counterparts. There are countless colors, patterns, textures, and sizes to scroll through that’ll fit truly any patio style. They’re simple to clean and offer protection from hot patio planks, stone pavers, or splinters!

I always recommend choosing a timeless rug. You might be tempted to reach for a colorful style, which can feel fitting for summer, but you want something that’ll work for spring and autumn too. Not only that, but you won’t want your rug to feel dated after only one summer of use. More classic choices also mean that you can change out your decor and plants without losing cohesion.

Create Zones with Dividers and Furniture

A patio can quickly feel basic or poorly equipped when it lacks a purpose. I encourage you to think about the way you’d like to use it. Do you love spending mornings sipping a coffee on your patio? Are you a fan of grilling or hosting dinner parties? Is it simply a place to catch some rays or watch the sunset? No matter what purpose (or multiple purposes) you settle on, what matters most is that it works with your lifestyle.

A fail-proof way of giving your patio this said purpose is through zones. You may want a dining space and a separate area to relax. Or maybe you’d like a kids zone or portion for different activities. With dividers, you can parse out these areas. These don’t necessarily have to be true dividers or walls, either. Trellises with climbing plants, large planters, outdoor cabinets, shades, and umbrellas can all help create zones in their own way.

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Your Insider Cape Cod Travel Guide from a Local

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

I live and breathe the coastal life, happily embracing all of its charms in and around my home. I have to say that it helps being based in Falmouth, Massachusetts! I’ve been lucky enough to travel to some wonderful places in my life, but something always draws me back to the beauty of the Cape.

The soft, sandy dunes sprinkled with sea grass, which gently meet the rolling blue waves. The beautiful gray-shingled houses and sturdy lighthouses that are iconic of the landscape. The delicious seafood dishes and laidback lifestyle. Living on the Cape is never a joy I take for granted, and if you’re planning a trip to this part of the world, I wanted to put together a Cape Cod travel guide from a local that’ll help you discover the best gems when it comes to stays, eats, sips, and shopping!

Whether you’re planning a quick but dreamy weekend away or hoping to spend a large part of your summer on the Cape, this travel guide will give you the best insider tips and ensure you have the best possible vacation. Though everyone is different, don’t be surprised if you already start planning another trip back on your way home! It’s somehow both a calming and invigorating place to be, and I can’t wait for you to see it. Scroll on for all my favorite restaurants, hotels, shops, and beaches on Cape Cod.

The Best Times to Visit Cape Cod

Although summer is arguably the best time to visit Cape Cod, I think each season brings its own things to enjoy. While the weather may be best from June to August, it can get extremely busy during the high season. Not to mention, it’s trickier to get restaurant bookings, and hotel prices are more expensive.

If you’re looking for alternative times to visit Cape Cod, I recommend late spring and early fall. May, September, and October will still provide you with nice weather, but with fewer crowds—and there’s still a magic to the place you can’t find anywhere else!

Where to Stay on Cape Cod

I’d personally recommend booking an Airbnb or rental home for the best experience on the Cape, as there are so many options that hug the coastline and provide you with more room to relax, cook, and enjoy the views. That said, there are also some nice hotels available if that’s more your style!

The Coonamessett in Falmouth: This charming inn is bright, breezy, and a little shabby chic. It’s a cute spot for curling up after hours spent beachcombing.

Salt House Inn in Provincetown: Featured in the Michelin Guide, this inn is a unique combination of a boutique hotel and B&B. It has touches of the iconic Cape Cod design but still feels modern and refined.

Chapter House Cape Cod in Yarmouth Port: As a former Revolutionary War hospital and a Victorian mansion, this space has so much individuality and features beautiful architecture. With only 21 rooms, it feels both intimate and luxurious.

Chatham Bars Inn Resort & Spa in Chatham: If you prefer luxury when you travel around, it’s hard to beat the views of this hotel. It has private beach access and a lovely spa for the perfect rejuvenating treatment.

Where to Eat and Drink in Cape Cod

Cape Cod is known for its unbelievably fresh seafood, and you won’t be short on options! However, this isn’t the only delicious type of food you can find out here. From Greek food to great grills to pizza to coffee, there are so many choices for dining and drinking—plus, so many of them have exceptional views!

Food

Shipwrecked Falmouth Heights: This spot has a lovely view and amazing sushi. Don’t miss it!

Flying Bridge in Falmouth: A great place for outdoor dining with another beautiful view and the winner of 2024’s best waterfront restaurant.

La Cucina Sul Mar in Falmouth: Is the place to go if you’re after excellent Italian food. They also do brunch!

53 Chophouse in Mashpee: Similar to Capital Grill, this is exactly where you want to be for a special occasion dinner.

Asti: With locations in Mashpee and Falmouth, I recommend stopping here for delicious Greek food and great pizza.

Café Chew in Sandwich: They do breakfast and brunch, but take it from the name of its location—it’s an exceptional place to go for sandwiches and soups!

Red Cottage Restaurant in South Dennis: For a tasty breakfast, whether you like savory or sweet, this place is adorable and has been around for more than 75 years!

Drinks

Anejo Mexican Bistro: Has three locations and serves the best margarita! It’s also a delicious spot for any Mexican cuisine craving, from fish tacos to fried ice cream!

Liam Maguire’s Irish Pub: For the best traditional pub experience on this side of the pond, it’s worth visiting Liam’s! It’s open late and a fun experience, not only for drinks, but they have excellent food, too.

The Rooftop at Pelham House Resort: If you want a rooftop view, swing by here for happy hour and a quick drink.

Baleine: If you’re after a good wine bar (and maybe a few small plates or some dessert), this swanky place fits the brief.

Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery: For beer and brewing enthusiasts, you won’t want to miss this top-rated place in Falmouth and Edgartown. It’s a cute place where you can enjoy live music and bring your dog!

Coffee and Tea

Even though I’m not a coffee drinker myself, Cape Cod has plenty of adorable coffee shops and cafes. For the perfect latte or your caffeine dose of choice, here are the spots I recommend to my friends and family:

  • Cape Cod Coffee in Mashpee
  • Coffee Obsession in Falmouth
  • Great Awakening Coffee Shop in Hyannis
  • Nirvana Coffee Co. in Barnstable
  • Three Fins Coffee Roasters in Dennis

Where to Shop and What to Do in Cape Cod

Spending time at the beach is the number-one thing many people enjoy doing when coming to the Cape, and it makes sense why! We have some of the most beautiful stretches of sandy beaches (just under 560 miles of it!) with stunning sunsets, bold blue waters, soft dunes, and amazing wildlife. My favorite beach to visit is Old Silver Beach. It has gorgeous white sands and turquoise waters.

Speaking of lighthouses, there are so many unique ones to visit and spot. There is an entire website dedicated to all of them, including where they’re located and their history, if this is your kind of adventure!

Getting outside and being active are also popular options for people. There are more than 100 miles of paved bike trails here, which makes seeing the coast even more of a special, immersive experience (cycle the one in Woods Hole). If walking is more your thing, you can hike and wander all around this part of the world as well. If you can only choose one, make sure it’s The Knob, which has some of the most breathtaking ocean views.

You’ll probably want to do some shopping here too, whether you’re after chic clothes or gorgeous home goods. Day Off is my favorite store, and I’d say about 80% of my clothes are from here! I also recommend walking around Mashpee Commons in general, as it has so many cute stores. If you’re interested in chic, coastal decor, you’re spoiled for options! Setting the Space Interiors is worth visiting for furniture and decor, as is Old Main Mercantile—both are in Falmouth. For unique finds, I highly recommend Home Again Antiques and Homespun Gardens, to treat yourself or bring back something special for friends and family from the Cape.

Lastly, wine-tasting is also a growing industry on the Cape. From Cape Cod Winery to Truro Vineyards, you can get a lovely feel for the reds, whites, and rosés produced out here.

Tips for Traveling to Cape Cod

I recommend renting a car if you’re flying in or coming from further away. The Cape is much bigger than many people realize, and you definitely want to explore all the towns and coastlines it has to offer. The Cape is divided into the Upper, Mid, Lower, and Outer Cape. Be sure to look at the towns and beaches you’re interested in and where they are in relation to one another!

It’s true we do get nice weather, but it’s still coastal. Even in summer, it can get brisk, so I recommend packing layers so you don’t end up too chilly or too warm. Don’t forget sunscreen and shoes for the beach, either!

In peak season, lines can get long, and so can the waiting times for restaurants, bars, and cafes. I suggest booking reservations far in advance for food and activities, even if that’s not something you usually do. It’ll save you a lot of stress!

Finally, one of my favorite recommendations in Falmouth is the summer farmers’ market that takes place on the marina. You’ll find the freshest seafood, produce, and trinkets all with the best possible views. It runs from May to October!

My Cape Cod Recommendations List

I’ve put all my recommendations into a list that you can easily screenshot or copy and paste to your notes on your phone!

  • Airbnb – Stay
  • The Coonamessett – Stay
  • Salt House Inn in Provincetown – Stay
  • Chapter House Cape Cod – Stay
  • Chatham Bars Inn Resort & Spa in Chatham – Stay
  • Shipwrecked – Dinner
  • Flying Bridge – Dinner
  • La Cucina Sul Mar – Dinner
  • Asti – Dinner
  • 53 Chophouse – Dinner
  • Red Cottage Restaurant – Breakfast
  • Cafe Chew – Brunch/Lunch
  • Anejo Mexican Bistro – Drinks
  • Liam Maguire’s Irish Pub – Drinks
  • The Rooftop at Pelham House Resort – Drinks
  • Baleine – Drinks
  • Aquatic Brewing – Drinks
  • Day Off – Shopping
  • Mashpee Commons – Shopping
  • Old Silver Beach – Beach rec
  • Cape Cod Winery
  • Truro Vineyards
  • Cape Cod Coffee
  • Coffee Obsession
  • Great Awakening Coffee Shop
  • Nirvana Coffee Co.
  • Three Fins Coffee Roasters
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Decor

Your Guide to Outdoor Entertaining This Summer, From Tips to Tablescapes

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

The sun is shining, the patio is refreshed, and your out-of-office is on—your space is perfectly primed for outdoor entertaining. As we drift into the season of al fresco dining, it’s worth making the most of every moment we can spend outside. Summer often goes by so quickly, and that’s why I so deeply love the art of outdoor entertaining! It’s the best way of celebrating all that summer brings and a wonderful way of bringing together your favorite people.

That being said, I know hosting can be a little stressful. Trying to visualize everything you need, let alone put together a tablescape outside, takes effort. I’m fully here to help on this front! As a long-time fan of outdoor entertaining, I wanted to put together a guide for you so you can enjoy eating meals outside and spending time with the people you care about most. Ahead, you’ll find general advice for running outdoor gatherings smoothly, as well as my favorite furniture and hosting staples for creating a lovely atmosphere.

Tips for Outdoor Entertaining

Whether you’re hosting a graduation party, entertaining new friends, hosting a large summer bash, or an intimate dinner, these tips will best support you as you plan and on the day!

Treat your outdoor events like indoor ones.

When you entertain outside, it’s always a nice idea to give it the same attention and care as your indoor gatherings. Take time to clean your deck, patio, porch, or whichever area you’re hosting. And give yourself ample time to decorate and design a layout that works for you. If it’s just a morning latte with your best friend, create a cozy and comfortable set-up with cushioned seats, an accessible table, shade if necessary, nibbles, and mugs that are easy to use outside. For bigger events, think about a well-designed tablescape, activities to do, and where everything will go… which leads me to the next point.

Create zones for guests.

Designating zones in your outdoor spaces reflects a layout similar to your interiors, and gives guests options. Some may want to just relax with a drink in hand. Have comfortable chairs or loungers available for them or a quiet area on your patio. Have an area for kids’ food and games if little ones or teens will be joining. Make the games/sports area clear for kids and adults interested in running around. It’s also smart to consider both exposed and shaded areas for your friends and family to sit based on their comfort levels.

Get dietary requirements and requests in early.

There is nothing more stressful than getting a last-minute request you can’t cater to or when someone mentions an allergy in passing. Keep people comfortable and protect your own peace of mind by asking for all of this up front. This will help you then design a menu, plan out drinks, or determine what’s worth purchasing.

Consider timing and temperature.

No one ever sets out to host a gathering without considering the forecast, but we can’t control what ends up happening. There are ways to feel extra prepared, though! Have an umbrella to keep hot sun rays out. Consider an awning or a porch space you can move into if a drizzle starts or a breeze picks up. Have movable heaters and soft throw blankets in a basket that guests can gravitate towards if the temperature dips. You may want a fire pit going if it’s an evening get-together. Consider the possibilities and you won’t feel caught out in most cases!

Choose a theme and opt for simple.

A central theme can be helpful so you don’t buy too much food or drinks or struggle to figure out what to prepare. It’s also great if guests ask what to bring, and you can share the theme with them for inspiration. This is also a guiding light for designing your outdoor space and tablescape and determining what plates and items to use. I also recommend selecting a simple menu.

Bring food and drinks out last.

This might seem like a no-brainer, but oftentimes, in order to prepare and feel ready before people arrive, it can be tempting to set everything out in advance. This unfortunately doesn’t work as well outdoors. Inside, you have control over the indoor temperature, ovens, hot plates, and a fridge to keep everything fresh. Outside, the elements, bugs, and fluctuating temperatures make this difficult. I recommend assigning someone to help you bring everything out a few minutes prior, or even better, task your family with carrying out the dishes for you when it’s time to eat!

Build in time for you to enjoy your event.

So often as the host, you spend all your time preparing, serving, cleaning, and running around! While that is part of hosting, I think it’s extremely important that you get a chance to enjoy your efforts and the company around you. Life is too short not to have special moments with friends and family; the dishes can wait! If you feel overwhelmed, don’t go it alone. Delegate tasks to your partner, kids, or friends. People often want to help (but might need a little direction)!

Outdoor Entertaining Essentials

Part of feeling good about hosting outdoors comes down to the items you have. While it’s perfectly possible to grab the paper plates and call it good, having essentials that make you happy and make entertaining easier are worth the investment. It makes each occasion feel special, even if it’s a casual coffee date or a laidback potluck.

Shop some of my favorite outdoor dining items below, then keep scrolling to discover all you need for hosting outdoors, plus categorized essentials!

Outdoor Furniture

Let’s start with the foundations. You can’t host without tables and chairs or areas for you and your guests to chat, share food, and unwind. If you’re on a budget for upgrading your patio, deck, or porch, I recommend just a few basics. Consider a dining table and chairs (or at least a bistro table and chairs), then two more comfortable chairs or loungers for sitting. If you have a bigger budget, I’d consider an outdoor couch, a large dining table and chairs, and several options for seating, whether that’s sun chairs, loungers, big cushy chairs, poufs, or floor cushions.

Building out from that, consider side tables and ottomans that double as storage. Benches are also handy, especially those with hidden compartments. Umbrellas or shades are another staple, in my opinion, as this allows guests to choose between sun and cover. Lastly, think about rolling carts or outdoor consoles that make it easier to hold food or support you if you’re grilling or cooking outdoors.

Outdoor Plates, Glassware, and Cutlery

Yes, arguably, your outdoor furniture is the most important part of outdoor entertaining. However, I will say that nothing brings magic to outdoor gatherings like the plates, serverware, glassware, and other tablescape touches. Aesthetically, these details are responsible for carrying the theme and bringing an instant infusion of color and texture to your table without requiring immense effort. Functionally? They provide so much, of course!

Outside of plates, bowls, silverware, and glassware, think about other useful pieces that make hosting and eating outside simpler. Placemats and tablecloths keep furniture clean while giving your table style. Pitchers, serving platters and bowls, and drink dispensers offer ways of beautifully plating your food and serving drinks. Citronella candles keep pests away and add an ambient glow. Don’t forget washable (but pretty) napkins either!

Outdoor Decor

Decor is the cherry on top of a lovely outdoor entertaining set-up. Once you have furniture in place and everything needed for serving and making guests comfortable, decor adds those details that make your outdoor spaces feel just as inviting as your interiors. Though some people might see these as “extras,” I see them as a vital part of your outdoor spaces and an extension of your home. I also think spending a little time sourcing outdoor decor and putting part of your budget towards it is worth it. These pieces will last you for years, and they’re easy to rearrange, move around, and build upon.

As far as my favorite outdoor decor goes, I think there are three great categories to focus on first: Textiles, lighting, and plants. Soft weatherproof furnishings like rugs, pillows, cushions, and blankets boost your guests’ comfort when sitting, standing, and walking around. They also add color and dimension to couches, chairs, and tables. Lighting is essential, too, not only to see when the evening settles around you but to really set the tone. Consider string or fairy lights, lanterns, solar orbs, and candles. Lastly, plants are a must. They make you feel like you’re truly within nature, even if you’re sitting up high on a deck. They too add color and texture, and there are so many planters for all design tastes.

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The Best Finds for Creating a Timeless Coastal Patio on a Budget

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Spring and summer are the seasons of outdoor living, and there is no more magical feeling than your first afternoon soaking up rays or that first sunset-drenched evening sharing a meal with loved ones. This week, I wanted to focus on creating stylish patio ideas on a budget, especially for those of you who love coastal aesthetics like I do!

While we’ve covered how to refresh your home for spring, this turns the attention to our outdoor spaces. Sometimes it feels like you have to choose between having stylish decor and what your budget allows, but these patio ideas on a budget make it possible to have both. Your outdoor spaces are simply an extension of your indoor rooms, and it’s always lovely to have a patio, deck, or porch that reflects this.

I’ve curated a handful of ideas and the decor items needed to create these looks, whether you’re refreshing your patio or another corner within your outdoor space. These ideas are proof that you can easily freshen up these areas without overspending, as they’re so important for fully enjoying this time of year! Enjoy the process and feel free to share how you’re styling your patio this season.

Affordable Patio Decor for Stylish Outdoor Spaces

I’ll start by saying, I know that every budget is different. What one person considers “budget-friendly” may not align with someone else. That’s why I’ve tried to choose a wide selection of furniture and decor items that have a variety of prices. Furniture, of course, tends to be more expensive than decor items, but places like Wayfair, Amazon, and Walmart, for instance, often have options that are both beautiful and good for your budget.

I also think that you can easily get away with a simple layout that uses a few intentional pieces. A dining set with a beautiful rug or a two-piece chair set and an umbrella can be just as beautiful as a patio that’s styled with tons of decor.

Your resourcefulness will also come in handy for decorating a patio on a budget. See if you have interior decor items that can double as outdoor decor, or host a DIY craft night with friends to upcycle items or create your own decor. There are so many ways to upgrade your patio that cost less. Continue reading for options that I’ve broken down by category, from furniture to decor to planters.

Patio Furniture on a Budget

If you’re searching for the most important patio furniture pieces, a dining set and comfortable chairs are essentials in my eyes. This gives you a place to entertain and share meals, as well as a spot to relax and spend time lounging.

When you’re thinking of your budget, you can also opt for multipurpose furniture. For instance, a conversation set with a table and chairs may be all you need for a smaller patio or balcony, which doubles as a place to have coffee and chat as well as a place to have dinner outside. You can also opt for tables with built-in storage or chairs that convert from upright to laid-back.

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Patio Planters on a Budget

One of the easiest ways to bring style and personality to your patio on a budget is through plants and planters. Although planters can be pricey, there are many options for under $50 and under $25 that allow you to bring flowers, shrubs, and even plants that offer a little shade to your outdoor spaces.

Another consideration is choosing faux plants. I have found so many versions that look surprisingly realistic but still bring a pop of color or a wash of green to your coastal patio. These are much easier to care for and are often more affordable than their real counterparts.

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Patio Decor on a Budget

The small details are one of my favorite ways to personalize an outdoor area. These bring color, texture, and dimension to your patio without costing as much as larger pieces of furniture. There are a few ways you can do this. First, think about how you usually use your patio. Is it for coffee dates with friends, family dinners, a base for lawn games, or an area to unwind?

Once you know this, you can shop accordingly to curate a beautiful patio. I love investing in a great outdoor dining set of plates. A pitcher, glasses, or coffee mugs are also lovely. Think about vases, candles, table centerpieces, or even lights you can place around the place. Cushions can add more comfort to your seats, and think about ottomans or decorative stools with coolers built in for more functionality.

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Patio Textiles on a Budget

Everything from pillow covers to outdoor rugs makes it so easy to add color, texture, and style to your patio without draining your entire budget. I think these are some of the best ways to make this area feel warm and welcoming, too. Without them, a patio can come across as a little sterile, as opposed to another “room” you want to spend time in.

I like to find outdoor pillow covers that are pretty but easy to spot clean or are capable of being thrown in the washing machine. The same goes for throw blankets and outdoor rugs. They’re prone to getting dirtier than the ones inside, so I think it’s worth choosing ones that won’t give you more work, especially if spills or bad weather happen.

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Tips for Decorating a Patio on a Budget

Decide what you’ll invest in.

First, I think it’s helpful to determine what you’re happy investing a little more money into (if anything). Sometimes that means setting a larger chunk of your budget aside for a new outdoor couch or dining table. Or maybe you’re happy to opt for lower-budget furniture and instead have a bigger budget for decor and outdoor entertaining essentials. It’s fully up to you! Consider what activities you enjoy most outside, what you would use the most, and what’s your number-one priority.

Do some browsing first.

I know it can be tempting to automatically buy the first thing you spot that you love. Things go out of stock quickly these days, but there is sometimes value in waiting and price checking. Oftentimes, stores restock popular products, and in many cases, you’ll find better deals during the summer sales if you can wait. However, if you really need something or love something you find and the price works with your budget, I’ll always say go for it!

Figure out what’s worth refreshing and what’s worth replacing.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in feeling like you need all-new-everything when summer rolls around. I’ve been there too! But if you take a breath and a step back, you might find that some of your furniture items just need a nice, deep clean or a fresh coat of paint.

Shop for the future.

Who doesn’t love a good trend? They make styling your home so much fun! That being said, when it comes to furniture and decor you’ll want to use for many seasons in a row, I recommend seeking out timeless pieces with more longevity. This is especially true for big furniture items like sofas, dining sets, and lounge chairs. However, feel free to have fun with smaller objects like vases, planters, and throw pillow covers, which don’t have to cost a fortune and are easy to swap if you get tired of them.

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A Curated List of Console Table Styling Ideas for Coastal-Inspired Homes

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Of all the lovely surfaces in your home, I think one of the most impactful stylistically is the console table. It’s an excellent place for decor and an easy way to infuse any room with more of your style. Console tables add functionality, they cover up awkward blank spaces, and they imbue a room with more of the aesthetic you love.

If you have already read my guide on how to style a console table, and are aware of the main components involved in making one look beautiful, I want to provide you with some more inspiration for making these tables shine in your home. Whether you have one in your entryway, living room, dining room, bedroom, or another nook, I hope that the following options will provide you with plenty of ways of decorating each one.

Console Table Styling Ideas

There are many approaches you can take to styling a console table. Some of my favorite ideas focus on using different kinds of symmetry, layering, or specific color palettes. I recommend looking around on Instagram and Pinterest for inspiration, and also looking at your own home for ideas. What does your space already look like? What kinds of items would add to this aesthetic (rather than dampen it or take away from it)? Then, you can start looking for decor and small objects to dress it up to your liking.

Remember that less is more. Start with a clean slate, then slowly build up. No matter what theme or look you decide on, it’s better to take your time curating a gorgeous display; otherwise, your console table can feel a little busy or cluttered.

My last piece of advice before diving in is to have fun with it! At the end of the day, your console table decor should reflect you and your personal style. No matter what’s trending or in at the moment, the most important detail is that you love what you see and you feel that it reflects your design tastes.

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Stylish Console Tables for Coastal Homes

I’m also going to put some console table options below that I love in case you’re looking to replace an old one or are in the market for a new one for a different room in your home.

Create a Symmetrical and Balanced Console Table

Regardless of your personal style, I think symmetry is one of the best ways to create a cohesive and beautiful console table. Although it doesn’t have to have perfect equilibrium, each side of your table should be relatively even compared to the other. This kind of visual weighting will look nicer to the eye. This doesn’t mean you have to have matchy-matchy decor either, just pieces that complement one another in size.

I like to do this by having a vase on one end and a lamp of a similar shape and size on the other. Abide by the rule of three for things in between. This means styling decor in clusters of three, which provides another form of balance. Don’t forget to consider the bottom half of your console table, either! If there are shelves or a blank space beneath, apply the same principles.

Create a Layered Console Table

A layered console table still has the balance and symmetry like the previous console table styling idea, but this one is a little more subtle in that regard. Instead, a layered surface has various dimensions, different heights and textures, and looks slightly more natural. Both are wonderful, but each gives off its own vibe.

For this specific style, I recommend clustering decor, but look for options in various colors, finishes, and shapes that, although different, still feel cohesive when placed together. As an example similar to above, try to find ceramic and stone finishes that will nicely contrast against reflective surfaces (like shell or a mirror) and softer textures like bouclé.

Embrace Touches of Greenery

Console tables can also be simple. This kind of styling is perfect for interior minimalists and coastal homes that you want to feel fresh, breezy, and clean. More specifically, when I’m opting for a streamlined look like this, I enjoy using greenery because that helps the entire layout feel less sterile. Sometimes minimalism can feel a little bare or industrial, and to avoid that, nothing helps better than plants (real or faux.

Add one in a chic planter or add a spray of fresh flowers. Though the decor doesn’t have to be literal plants either. Consider moss balls, artwork inspired by nature, wreaths, or other natural elements like stones, crystals, or shells. Another way to bring warmth into a minimal setup is by using warmer woods, which also touches on this natural theme.

Use a Coastal Color Palette

You can also design a console table around the color palette in your home. For coastal-inspired interiors, this almost always involves blue and navy, and neutral colors, such as white, gray, and beige. Every space is different (some people might love green in their coastal home or black!), but I suggest choosing two main colors and one or two secondary colors.

For mine, I selected blue and white to dress up a console table in a whitewashed wood material. Then I added a few touches of brown. If you have a specific scheme to work with, it’s so much easier to source decor and create a sense of cohesion. Use bowls, book stacks, vases, and decorative beads to make it stand out.

Design Around a Mirror

This is a useful idea for places like your entryway or bedroom, when a mirror might be a focal point. This reflective surface is a perfect point of reference that you can then decorate around. Using elements of the symmetrical console table and plant-infused ideas, you can create a table that feels creative and intentionally styled.

When a mirror is involved, I try to avoid bringing in too many competing textures or finishes. Consider baskets and woven textures, which bring flair but won’t try to steal attention like a big metallic vase or shiny bowl would. Therefore, keep statement pieces limited (like a small blue vase or a large lamp, but in a neutral tone). Don’t forget about the lighting either. If it’s in an area with great natural light, that’s wonderful, but a table lamp or task light can be helpful for last-minute outfit checks when it’s dark or gray.

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Spring Porch Decor Ideas for Creating a Lovely Outdoor Space

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

After blankets of snow this winter, I’m craving the warmer, lighter days of spring. Living on the Cape, spring often arrives fashionably late, and while it’s slowly starting to emerge, I figured there was no better time to discuss spring porch decor.

Each year, I give my porch and patio a little spring refresh, and I wanted to share how I approach decorating these spaces, recommending stylish pieces and helpful tips for doing the same around the outside of your own home. There is something so satisfying about bringing a space back to life after a long winter slumber, through bright colors, plants, and soft textures.

Although I’m honing in on spring porch decor, this advice translates so beautifully to any outdoor space, whether it’s a petite balcony, sun-soaked patio, or a deck tucked away behind your house. The goal is to create livable areas that look like an extension of the coastal-inspired interiors you adore and that feel like a welcoming place to spend time as the weather gets nicer.

For this guide, I’ve organized everything by category. Each person’s style and needs are different. You might be searching for the perfect accent piece or are ready for a full furniture upgrade. Either way, this is written just for you. Enjoy the creation process, and I hope you can make the most of your newly refreshed outdoor space this season.

Spring Porch Decor Ideas

Coastal color palettes, blooming flowers, and timeless elements are all things that play a part in my spring porch decor plan. I begin with the base or foundation of my porch, which involves refreshing the furniture and positioning it in ways that are inviting, whether that’s chatting with friends and family or spending a morning drinking coffee solo.

I also review if we’re missing any pieces or need to replace furniture. I think having several seating options is key, and our porch features a swing seat, two comfortable, cushioned chairs, and a statement chair.

Once you have your furniture in place, you can focus on the smaller details. And while they might be smaller, I don’t underestimate just how much they bring to a porch! Planters, lighting, pillows, rugs, and decorative objects are the glue that holds a thoughtfully designed porch together.

When you’re putting together spring porch decor, I recommend choosing picks that bring you joy. You’ll have your coastal style at the forefront of your mind, but if you find a plant or a doormat that’s not necessarily the same aesthetic, don’t worry too much. Spring is a season of vibrancy, brightness, and color. I love adding a splash of pink or purple in my planters, or if you find a floral print doormat, go for it! The most important thing is that it lights you up when you’re walking up to the front door or spending time on your porch.

With a plan in mind, you can start shopping for beautiful spring porch decor that will wholeheartedly transform this space.

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Spring Porch Furniture

Furniture is the most important part of putting together a pretty spring porch. These pieces are the foundation of a relaxing space, as they outline the actual space and bring those welcoming vibes that make you want to stay another hour or two! These are also usually the biggest investments, so you want to choose wisely.

Functionality and quality are important (especially with furniture that’s sitting outside), as well as the style component. You want to decide on pieces that you won’t get bored with after a season or two. Timeless with a coastal touch is always my go-to, and I often find furniture that matches this brief on Wayfair, Amazon, Serena & Lily, and Crate & Barrel. Consider weatherproof cushions that are plush but capable of handling rain, sun, dust, and salty air.

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Porch Planters and Plants

Nothing evokes the feeling of spring quite like fresh flowers and plants—along with a few stylish planters to house them in! These are my go-to decorative items for framing a door and giving it more dimension. Plants also make easy fillers for those awkward empty corners or sitting areas that feel a little bit bare. The volume, color, and texture they bring into an area make them a must for any spring porch decor ideas you have.

As a caveat, I will say that real flowers and arrangements are undeniably gorgeous, but you can get the same effect from faux plants. I’ve found so many options these days that look impressively realistic, from the petals to the ways the leaves move around. The best part is, you don’t have to water them or worry if inclement weather is on its way!

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Porch Doormats and Rugs

One of my favorite ways of warming up a porch and entry area is with soft textures. Doormats and rugs do this so effortlessly, though they’re often a second thought in an outdoor space. A weather-resistant rug keeps the elements at bay and helps designate different zones. You can define a conversation area, a dining place, a coffee corner, and so much more simply with a rug.

Doormats do the same and welcome everyone who steps over the threshold. For spring, I like to add an extra layer under my coir version. It brightens the entire look and signals that the new season is here. I’m appreciative of how far both welcome mats and outdoor rugs have come. There are so many designs, patterns, and colors that fit in so nicely outside of a coastal home.

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Spring Porch Decor

Outdoor decor encompasses all those finishing touches that bring a space together and make it feel beautiful and intentionally designed. It’s these little bits that elevate an average outdoor area, turning it into a place that’s received just as much time, energy, and care as your indoor rooms. Let your creativity take over, and don’t be afraid to invest in decor for these “rooms” that don’t necessarily have four walls. These pieces are often more reliable, less breakable, and easier to wipe down.

There are so many routes to take. You can keep your spring porch decor simple and opt for a cute pillow or two on your chairs. You can bring in elements that are centered on your decor theme, such as signs or objects with a coastal twist, or those with a subtle holiday theme, like Easter. Wreaths and garlands also bring warmth to your porch, as do strands of lights (which we’ll get to soon). It doesn’t have to be a lot of decor or complex, just a few easy pieces that complete the look.

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Porch Lighting

Lastly, don’t forget the lighting! This also often falls to the wayside, but it’s one of the most impactful details you can add to your porch (and really, all of your outdoor spaces). I place lighting into two categories: permanent and temporary. The former includes those fixtures and sconces that are installed for good and will remain on your porch through all seasons. These should be timeless and fit into the overall look of your home, whether that’s a beach house, modern coastal escape, or something else completely.

Then, in the latter group, you have light features that can be swapped, moved around, and changed depending on the time of year. This is where lanterns, fairy lights, glowing spheres, and battery-operated (or unpluggable) lights sit. Both groups are important, but temporary lighting is best when it comes to decorating for a season like spring. I love incorporating a collection of lanterns in varying heights. It’s a gorgeous way to bring layers to your porch and cast a gentle glow.

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Tips for Decorating Your Porch This Spring

Your porch has so much potential. With a few fresh decor items and the right styling techniques, you can turn it into a springtime oasis. Here are a handful of other tips to have in mind when you’re designing an outdoor space.

Consider the purpose.

Before decorating, it’s a good idea to think about the purpose you’d like your porch to serve. You can think about this for any outdoor space. For your porch specifically, consider what you or your family find most important. Is it a space to talk and sip coffee? A play area? A place to unwind? An entertainment space? Once you’ve determined this, you can shop for the right furniture and decor to match.

Invest in quality.

I’m all for finding a bargain or amazing sale item, but there are some instances where investing in high-quality decor and furniture is a better choice, as they’ll last you longer. This is definitely the case for pieces like tables, chairs, rugs, and planters, which you’ll want to have for years to come.

Embrace “natural” decor.

Spring is the season of new growth and rebirth in the natural world, and it’s always nice to have your decor reflect that. Plants and flowers are the best way of bringing this out. If your home has a coastal aesthetic, look for items around your property and the surrounding area. Seashells, branches, and driftwood are also lovely. These nature-inspired pieces feel fitting and look beautiful.

Start restrained, then build up.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of buying a bunch of furniture sets and new decor for your porch, only to discover that it all feels cluttered and overwhelming once it’s in place. I recommend starting small, with one or two items. See how those feel and build your porch up from there. You might find you prefer a minimalist set-up or want it to look closer to an outdoor living room.

Double-check materials and fabrics.

Whether you live by the coast or in a city, it’s always important to ensure your outdoor furniture and decor truly are capable of sitting outside. Sometimes brands will sell items as “weatherproof” or under the outdoor label, but the moment it rains or gets sunny and hot, your items crumble under the pressure of the elements. Look for waterproof, UV-resistant, and washable fabrics and materials like glass, polyester, stainless steel, aluminum, and polyethylene plastics. Some woods that are treated are also suitable for being outside.

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