Shecky’s

Since summer is only about three months long, you simply have to take advantage of all that gorgeous weather while you still can with good ol’ relaxation and recreation in your outdoor space. Whether your goal is to lounge, wine, dine, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of your house for a hot second, we have some simple yet stunning ideas to get your backyard groove on. From personalizing your patio to sidelining sand in a sand trap to creative cocktail lanterns, we’ve got cheap ‘n’ chic DIY tips to spruce up any outdoor space!

-Casey Schmieder

Floral Table Runner

With all the outdoor parties you plan this summer (we hope!), you must have the picture-perfect decor, and the most important piece is definitely the table centerpiece. We all know that the dining table at any party is the community gathering spot, so why don’t you spice up the standard dining experience this season? In just 4 easy steps, you can ‘grow’ your own gerbera daisies (our absolute fave!) in wheat grass to throw down as a top-tier Floral Table Runner (on realsimple.com)!

What You’ll Need: Sharp scissors, drinking straws, 2 boxes of wheat grass (sold in flats or boxes at health food stores and flower shops), 12-16 gerbera daisies & a pencil.

What You’ll Do:
1. Gather all materials and set out a flat work space area. Cut the straws to match the height of the grass.
2. Snip the daisy stems so that they are slightly longer than the straws, and gently slide them into the straws.  If you find the stems to be thicker than the actual straws, slit the straws up the side to make them fit.
3. Using your pencil, make individual holes in the wheat grass flats. After each hole you poke and prod, place the straw-enforced stems of the daisies into the hole.
4. Water your wonderful creation on the reg to ensure the long life of the daisies. If you find the blooms are dwindling, you can easily replace them all summer long! How fabulous?

Image Credit: realsimple.com