Ideas for Garden Decorations

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Upgrade your yard for entertaining

Style expert Caitlin Atkinson says, "The garden is your canvas--paint a warm, inviting picture on it." Here are some easy ways to do just that, and get your outdoor space in shape for weekend entertaining.

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Dress the floor

A sunny polypropylene outdoor rug adds instant warmth and defines the party space. 6- by 9-ft. Dash & Albert Diamond rug in canary and white, $298; pottedstore.com

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Mix the seating

Folding chairs in fun colors provide flexible extra seating indoors or out. Fermob bistro metal chair, $99; floragrubb.com

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Cover the fence

Botanical and marine silhouettes—made with painted steel, strategically rusted and then sealed—add a pop of color to a not-yet-plant-covered fence. 24- by 24-in. wall art, $300; fivefeetfromthemoon.com

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Put in lighting

Clusters of lights bring warmth to the patio corners. Bubble caged glass lanterns, from $50; potterybarn.com

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Bring in a mini bar

A double-decker iron table, enameled a glossy green, sets off summery drinks. Luck side table, $149; cb2.com

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Set a stylish table

Porcelain plates in a geometric pattern echo the rug below. Chase yellow plate, $4.95; crateandbarrel.com

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Julie Chai

Illuminate the evening

Perforated porcelain candleholders cast a geometric glow over the whole space. Circles tea-light holder, $8; westelm.com

7 ways to upgrade your yard for entertaining

Upgrade your yard for entertaining

Dress the floor

Mix the seating

Cover the fence

Put in lighting

Bring in a mini bar

Set a stylish table

Illuminate the evening