Summer Fun

You may have heard about these nifty machines that can release tiny particles of water that vaporize instantly to cool the area around them. Maybe you’ve even experienced one for yourself when you were walking around at the zoo on a hot day last summer. They’re called misting systems, and they’re not just for the rich or for commercial use only. You can easily install one of these systems around your own patio, pool area or other outdoor space. In fact, here are some of the many benefits you’ll receive by doing so.

Keep cool when temps rise. Most people

Patio umbrellas make a welcome addition to any outdoor space. Not only do they provide shade and shelter on a hot, sunny day, but they also add a touch of color and elegance to really pull together your outdoor décor. With so many shapes, sizes, colors and designs to choose from, however, picking the one that’s right for you can be challenging. Let’s take a look at some of the important things to consider when purchasing a new patio umbrella.

Do you want a standalone patio umbrella or a tabletop one? The answer to this lies in how you plan to use the umbrella. If you’d like your umbrella to provide shade

The thermometer may indicate otherwise, but the time to start planning for your outdoor entertaining is now. The more you prepare ahead of time, the smoother everything will go once the weather is warm enough to start venturing outside again. If your goal is to become the place to be when it comes to hosting family and friends in your backyard, pool or patio area (not to mention the envy of the neighborhood), here are 14 helpful tips to get you started.

Think practical. Imagine how you’d plan a dinner party or other type of get together indoors and then translate that vision to your outdoor space. You want your guests to enjoy themselves, so provide them with ample places to sit, relax, converse and mingle. Outdoor furniture, such as tables, chairs, lounges, c

Even though many of us are right in the thick of winter with no end in sight, now is actually the perfect time to start thinking about spring – particularly your new patio area. Planning ahead can help you get everything you need in order before the weather breaks so that you’ll be ready to move forward as soon as possible. That way you won’t be wasting precious time and can start enjoying your outdoor space earlier. Here are a few tips to get you on the right path.

Determine your patio’s purpose. What do you plan on using the area for most? Will it be for dining, or relaxing after a

In a recent post, we talked about the many benefits shade sails offer for enjoying the outdoor summer weather safely and comfortably. If you’re in the process of considering investing in a shade sail, there are a number of things you must take into consideration to ensure that the process goes smoothly and you end up with the result you’re looking for. The more you plan ahead, the fewer headaches you’ll have to deal with in the end. That said, here are some tips for planning for your new shade sails.

First, you’ll need to decide which type of shade sail would best suit your needs. This will help you determine how much work will go into getting it set up. For instance, if you’re just looking to

It’s that time of year again when your patio or outdoor living space is likely to be the place where you’ll do most of your entertaining. Yet, with temperatures sure to be rising and the hot sun beating down, finding a way to keep that area cool and comfortable for you and your guests can be a challenge. Let’s take a look at a few tricks and tips for keeping your outdoor space as cool as a cucumber this summer season.

Create natural shade with trees. By planting shade trees at both east and west points of your patio, you’ll

With summer in full force, chances are you’ve been spending more time outside on your patio, relaxing, eating or enjoying some refreshing cocktails. One staple that every outdoor living space should have is an umbrella. It’s not as simple as running to the store and grabbing one, however. Beyond their practical use, umbrellas come in many different shapes, sizes and styles. Here are a few important things to consider when choosing which type of patio umbrella would be the best fit for your space and needs. Choose your placement and purpose. This first step will help you determine which type of umbrella makes the most sense for your specific needs, as well as what size. Are you

Cabanas are practical. They keep the hot sun out and allow the cool breeze through. They can also be beautiful, if you’re willing to put a little effort in. In fact, with the right touches you can turn a boring old cabana into a breathtaking oasis that goes beyond practical, adds a touch of elegance to your landscaping and becomes a comfortable, inviting place for you and your guests to enjoy the great outdoors.

If you need a little guidance in this area, here are 6 simple tips to get you started.

Invest in a Quality Product – When it comes to cabanas, the sturdier the better. Consider the fact that this structure will likely have to withstand the stormy weather that can strike during summer months, including heavy rain and strong win

If you think you couldn’t use an outdoor cabana at your home or event venue, think again! Use the cabana as you would indoor space, for families, friends, business, and other gatherings. Get creative with your outdoor space and you will be using it all the time!

Here are 20 party themes for your outdoor cabana party:

1. Birthday
2. Tea party
3. Thanksgiving
4. Christmas gift exchange
5. New Year’s
6. Retirement
7. Costume

Convert your patio from a blank slate to an outdoor oasis using a variety of affordable options. From a fresh coat of paint, plants and shrubbery to shade sails, misting fans and cabanas, you can transform your outdoor space into a place to relax for you, your friends and family.

Here are our tips for creating an outdoor oasis:

• Paint the roof of the patio a light color to deflect the sunlight keeping the patio cooler especially in the sunny summer months.
• Plants and shrubbery will shade and add a natural cooling effect. Trees planted on the east and west sides of the area