The Broke Girl's Guide to Backyard Decorating

A dated, rarely used hot tub was hogging a ton of space under the pergola. The iron dining set was functional for eating but offered little more. The pergola was practically begging to be converted into a beautiful eating nook, so I ditched the tub and started with a clean slate.

Tip #1: Light It Up

The pergola provided the perfect backdrop for stringing bistro lights, like these Edison-style string lights ($25-$50) — my favorite on the market right now! They cast the most romantic glow and illuminate an outdoor space just enough.

Hanging a pendant light over the dining table added instant polish. If you have a covered patio, you can usually get away with hanging something that isn't intended for the outdoors. I love the industrial vibe and simple silhouette of this metal and glass pendant ($100) — it's hard to believe that you can buy an almost identical version for $450!

Tip #2: Introduce Pattern With Rugs

Nothing draws the eye like a beautiful, bold rug — especially when the rest of the outdoor space is fairly minimal. World Market has so many vibrant options, but this Barcelona-inspired version ($150) mimics the intricacy of Spanish tiles. If you yearn for the look of gorgeous, graphic tile but can't splurge on the renovation cost, this is the next best thing!

Tip #3: Set a Stylish Table

Make any outdoor table look effortlessly elegant with just a few items. Instead of bothering with a fussy tablecloth, choose place mats with an interesting shape and texture. These natural fiber place mats ($24 for a set of four) are superversatile — not to mention wrinkle- and stain-proof.

Top them with colorful plates, like these rustic melamine options ($42 for a set of four). I love that these look like antique earthenware but are actually light and shatter-proof.

Instead of buying and arranging flowers, add a potted succulent to the table for a pop of fresh greenery.

Finish the look with a couple of ceramic outdoor table lanterns (old, similar version here). Fill them with battery-operated candles ($8) and you'll get the look and flicker of real candlelight without having to worry about them blowing out — or worse, catching fire.

Tip #4: Create a Space to Lounge

Once you've established your outdoor dining area, consider adding a cozy lounging spot for enjoying cocktails or just curling up with a book on the weekend. Laying down a small area rug can make a couple of chairs suddenly feel like an outdoor room.

This one is made from recycled plastic bottles ($70) and is even reversible. Two looks for one! Finish by adding throw pillows, a blanket, and a side table or two.

Tip #5: Customize With Paint

World Market has some gorgeous drum stools that double as tables, but if you only have the budget for one, transform an inexpensive plant stand into an extra side table with spray paint.

This plant stand from the hardware store looks a million times better coated with glossy blue spray paint. Bonus: it matches the rug! Just be sure to look for spray paint that is made for outdoor use.

Same goes for decorative accessories. I loved the script-like font, shape, and size of this gather sign ($35) from World Market, but the red color scheme wasn't going to work.

Instead of passing it up, I found a pale-gray spray paint at the hardware store that worked well with the gray picnic table and benches and gray-and-blue patterned rug by the chairs. I hung it above the grill to add a common visual thread to all three sections (grilling, eating, and lounging).

Tip #6: Hang Mirrors

Mirrors work just as well outdoors as they do indoors. They reflect surrounding greenery and light and can make a backyard space feel even bigger. These mirrored tea light sconces from World Market ($12) are perfect for adding a subtle glow to the walls after the sun sets. To create an even bigger illusion of space, try this DIY mirrored trellis!

Tip #7: Know When to Play It Safe and When to Take Risks

An outdoor space is the perfect spot to take decorating risks. Layering vibrant accessories like rugs, accent tables, and umbrellas can create the same eye-catching impact as growing a colorful garden. Play it safe with key pieces, like furniture, but have fun with the rest!