By Dixie Somers
Summer is here and backyard parties are becoming more popular than ever before. When it comes to hosting a summer party, having an inviting, comfortable, and attractive outdoor space for your guests is essential. This is where your back porch comes in handy. A beautiful back porch can make hosting parties an enjoyable experience for both you and your guests. In this article, we will be discussing back porch makeover tips to help you create a beautiful and comfortable entertaining space for your guests.
Light It Up
Outdoor lighting is essential when it comes to creating an inviting atmosphere on your back porch. String lights or lanterns can add the perfect touch of ambiance to your outdoor space. You can also install solar-powered lights to add a whimsical glow to your backyard. If you want to make it even cozier, consider using candles or lanterns.
When it comes to adding lights to your back patio, it's important to ensure that you have just enough, without going overboard. Too little lighting can make the area feel dull and uninviting, while too much light can be overwhelming and not very welcoming. The best way to find the perfect balance is by experimenting with different types of lighting and seeing what works best for your space. Start by adding a few string lights or lanterns to create a cozy atmosphere, then add some solar-powered lights or candles. This will ensure that you have just enough light to make the area inviting and comfortable for your guests.
Add Entertainment
Adding entertainment to your back porch provides excitement for your guests. Whether it’s adding an outdoor smart TV or speakers to listen to music, your guests will appreciate the activity options. For those with children, adding games such as cornhole or horseshoes can keep them entertained while the adults socialize.
Get Some Outdoor Rugs and Floor Cushions
Nothing makes an outdoor space more comfortable and inviting than soft rugs and floor cushions. Rugs serve as a foundation for your furniture and rest underfoot providing warmth, texture, and style. Floor cushions present an opportunity for your visitors to relax, curl up with a good book or conversation, or catch some rays.
When it comes to selecting the right material for your outdoor rugs and cushions, look for materials that are weather-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. Outdoor rugs can be made from natural fibers like sisal or jute, or man-made fibers like polypropylene or nylon. For outdoor cushions, look for materials that are both moisture-resistant and easy to clean. These materials will help ensure your outdoor rugs and cushions withstand the elements for years to come. Furthermore, adding waterproofing to your cushion covers can also help protect them from the rain, so you don’t have to worry about storing them away after each use.
Keep It Cool and Refreshing
Summer temperatures can be scorching; therefore, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere for your guests is important. Adding an outdoor ceiling or standing fan can help to create a relaxing breeze that can cool everyone off. Keep drink stations or an ice chest filled with refreshments to stay hydrated in the heat.
Refresh Your Outdoor Furniture and Patio
Updating your outdoor furniture is a great way to add a fresh new look and more comfort to your entertaining space. Opt for cozy seating like chaise lounges, rocking chairs, and sofas. Select furniture that will fit your entertaining style and the time you will be hosting your events.
Refreshing the concrete or wood of your back patio can give a new look to the area and make it more appealing and inviting. If you have a concrete patio, consider trying acrylic render or power-washing it with a pressure washer to remove any dirt and grime that has built up over time. You can also use a sealer to protect the surface and give a polished look. For wooden patios, use sandpaper to remove any peeling paint or old stains. After that, apply a new coat of stain or sealant to protect the wood from the elements and make it look like new. By refreshing your patio, you can make sure your guests have a pleasant experience while they are on your back porch.
Use Naturalistic Décor Elements
Naturalistic décor is a great way to add a touch of nature to your outdoor space. Wooden décor such as benches, tables, and sculptures is a great way to incorporate an earthy feeling into your back porch. You can also use pillows, throws, and woven baskets with natural materials like cotton, wool, and willow to create a more comfortable look.
Create a Focal Point With an Outdoor Bar or Kitchen
Food and drinks are central to any backyard gathering, so why not create a designated space just for them? Adding an outdoor bar or kitchen to your porch can help you create a focal point while also providing plenty of space for preparation and serving. If you have more of a budget, you can even consider adding a pizza oven or a smoker to your porch, which can elevate your summer entertaining to the next level.
Maintaining an outdoor kitchen well is essential to get the most out of your investment and make sure it lasts for years to come. There are a few key steps you can take to ensure that your outdoor kitchen remains in good condition. First, try to keep it covered when not in use to prevent debris from getting into any crevices or electronics. Second, regularly clean any surfaces and make sure to remove any built-up grease or food residue. Finally, use a sealant once in a while to help prevent corrosion or rust. This will ensure that your outdoor kitchen is always looking its best and ready for your summer entertaining!
It’s time to revamp your back porch for summer get-togethers. No matter what your taste or budget may be, there are plenty of ways to create a beautiful and elegant outdoor space for entertaining. From updating your outdoor furniture to adding in some naturalistic décor elements, and of course, outdoor lighting—be it solar power or strung lights—summer get-togethers have never been more enjoyable. Let’s take advantage of the warm weather and get our back porches ready for summer entertaining!
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.
