While you might have ignored your outdoor area (be it backyard, patio or roof deck), the summer "entertaining season" is enough to spur even the most decor-averse person into action. If you have a few patio chairs -- or a full dining set -- part of the battle is over. These budget-friendly outdoor decor accessories will refresh the rest of the space, getting you fully ready to finally have people over.
Add an umbrella that has the same pattern as those striped swimsuits of the 1920s.
IKEA
A must for those who wish they were lounging in the Riviera with the Fitzgeralds and other 'Lost Generation' personalities. RAMSÖ umbrella (in red or blue), $14.99, IKEA.
Candleholders turn discount pillars into lovely "mood lighting."
TJ Maxx
Especially good for those of us who have too many candles hanging around their home, anyway. Candleholders, $9.99 each, from TJ Maxx stores.
A nice pillow makes that "vintage" aluminum deck chair look so much better.
TJ Maxx
Bring it inside and boom, instant sofa makeover. Floral pillow, $19.99, from TJ Maxx stores.
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Upgrade your BBQ dinner with a nautical table runner.
Marshalls
Table runners are slightly heavier than tablecloths, so they're less likely to billow in the breeze. Anchor Table Runner, $16.99, from Marshalls stores.
Ceramic pots make even the saddest container plant look...well, not sad.
TJ Maxx
You can also use planters to hold utensils or snacks (just line the pot first). Ceramic pots, $12.99-$29.99, from TJ Maxx stores.
Why bother with bulbs when you can light a walkway with FIRE?
Lowe's
If there's one advantage to being a homeowner, it's the ability to add torches to your outdoor decor. Fire Sense 2-Pack Tivoli 77-inch Polished Aluminum Metal Fire Torch, $45, from Lowe's.
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Clear string lights really go with anything.
Target
The round glass shades also add a little more style than the traditional "Christmas"-style string lights. Room Essentials Clear Globe Lights, $14.99, from Target.
A mobile can add a little glimpse of color in a sun-bleached backyard.
Target.com
Kind of like having a chandelier in your porch, gazebo or tree. "Glass Raindrops" Kinetic Hanging Mobile, $31.99, from Target (online only).
This beverage tub combo is for those of us who always like a cold drink nearby.
Home Depot
Especially handy for those who entertain and are tired of answering the question "Where are the drinks?" Geranium Beverage Tub With Tray On Stand, $39, Home Depot (online only).
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An outdoor rug will save your patio (and hide the weird stain left behind from last summer).
Home Decorators Collection
You can also use this indoors, particularly in high-traffic areas. Just hose it off and it's clean. Kastoria Area Rug in Blue, $47 for a 4'x5'7" rug, Home Decorators Collection.