Operation Back Yard Part 5

I'm not gonna lie...I'm pretty much in love with our patio! It did need a few final touches, including some lighting and accessories.


Step 1: Lighting

Soft lighting was a must, and I just love the traditional/industrial look of clear glass bulbs. We went with these lights from TheRedStore.

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We used a total of 3 strands, and we bought two extras for replacement bulbs. They're currently powered by an extension cord that's strung to an outdoor outlet on the side of our house. Eventually our goal is to wire a more permanent set-up. 

When it decides to rain out here in W.Tex we'll also have some nice light coming from the fire pit in the yard. 

Step 2: Accessories

This is a great time of year to purchase outdoor accessories. They're all on sale/clearance! Pillows were a must for our economically-friendly furniture set. We went with four square pillows from TheOrangeStore on sale for 50% off! We used coordinating fabric for the tie backs for the curtains, also.

For my birthday this year, my coworkers bought me this mini fire pit from World Market. It fits nicely on a wrought iron plant stand we had. It works great as a mini smoker with some mesquite chips to keep the mosquitoes away (although that is the only good thing about no rain...no mosquitoes!).

Step 3: Plants

For the centerpiece on the coffee table, we created our own succulent container garden! More on how we did that to come.

We also purchased some tall, green planters that were on sale at TheOrangeStore. They coordinate perfectly with some sweet potato vine and purple fountain grass! Plus, the sweet potato vine grows like a weed and fills in and spills over the containers nicely.