Backyard Party Prep Checklist

Chances are that if you currently live in a place with a yard, you’ve never felt more grateful for that chunk of land than ever before. While sheltering in place made us all (at least briefly) pay more attention to ensuring the inside of our home is on point, as the weather warms up, whatever bits of yard we’ve got are quickly becoming a sanctuary from our month-long, indoor sanctuaries.

So how do you turn your little patch into a slice of heaven? You throw a party!

Whether it’s just for you and whomever you might be huddled up with, or for as many people as your Zoom will allow, here are a few tips for how to turn your yard into the social hub you didn’t know you had.

source: pexels

source: pexels

Clean It Up

The great thing about yards is that they often don’t have to require a lot of money, just a little bit of good old fashioned TLC. If you’ve been overlooking your yard for a while, then it’s probably fallen into a state of slight disrepair. Get things headed back in the right direction by first getting rid of any dead shrubs and twigs, and then you can see what you’re working with. Once you’ve got it cleaned up, you’ll have a better idea of simple yet effective updates you can make. One chic, low-maintenance and more affordable route is to go for a drought-tolerant landscape. Another pro tip: if you’ve only got minimal time to spend in your yard each week, then choose plants that are native to your local area

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Furniture

There’s something to be said for lying on the grass in your yard, but if you’re inclined towards long, comfortable evenings of socializing, then it’s definitely wise to invest in some furniture. Just a few basic pieces like a table, chairs, and lounger or two can be game changers. Think of the patio area of your yard in the same way you think about your living room - go for comfort and a standout piece or two to pull it all together. Pro tip: opt for sturdy pieces that can withstand whatever weather ups and downs your seasons throw at you. No one wants ratty outdoor furniture a year later….

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See The Light

Outdoor lighting can make your yard feel extra dreamy, especially after the sun has set, giving you hours more to enjoy your space. A Lepro LED wall pack light is an easy, efficient way to brighten up your outdoor space. Candles are also a gorgeous way to dress a simple tablescape and make a casual dinner an outdoor event. Consider a firepit too, which can be a source of both heat and light, and which will allow you to enjoy your yard all year round. There’s something special about sitting outside in your yard, even during fall and winter. Just make sure you know the rules for backyard fires in your area before jumping in.

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Make it Private

One thing we know for sure is that it’s much easier to enjoy your own space if it doesn’t feel like you’re on display. To get around this, look at adding a fence, hedge, and trees. They’ll help to keep your yard enclosed, rather than open to the whole public. Bonus: it’ll also help to keep the sound you generate within your yard, so you can have as much fun as possible.

LivingTienlyn Jacobson