The Broke Girl's Guide to Backyard Decorating

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!