Freshen up your Porch for Summer!

Being in the wedding industry usually makes for very busy summers, which means my yard is often neglected. I decided that this year, I was going to take time to be outside! Since my little boy loves playing in the dirt, it has allowed me more  outdoor time so I figured it was time to get my yard & porch looking lovely so I could enjoy the time spent out there, instead of thinking it was ugly and needed help! Outdoor living spaces can be simply beautiful and a great way to relax, so I set to work updating some of my dingy old looking furniture to create a fresh & fun retreat.I purchased the Pottery Barn pillow (it was still new in the plastic!) at a yard sale for $1. I loved the color combo & thought it would be fun to use it as my inspiration for the colors I used on the furniture. The rocking chair had peeling paint and was looking pretty rough after quite a few years out in the elements. I sanded it down and used some powder blue spray paint to give it a subtle, yet fresh color. The metal bench is a piece I have always loved, but I thought it could also use a little sprucing up... 3 cans of (deep red) spray paint later and it was a whole new, chic little number. I then pulled the cobalt blue tone from the pillow as well to use on the scrappy looking metal lawn chair that I fell in love with at a garage sale last summer. I had to have it and for just $5, it was quite a steal. I love the way the horizontal slats give it a striped look. I still have some work to do in regard to plants & I'll probably also (one day) get my hanging baskets hung, but for now I am enjoying all the charming color on my porch. We've already used it a lot more since I got this project done! And the best part is that I whipped out these painting projects in just a single afternoon. One of my favorite things is the combination of the striped bench cushion with the floral pillow. The rich red color of the bench is just so much fun, I can't handle it!Quick Tip: Purchase a clear spray sealer in satin or gloss (depending on the look you want) and spray a couple coats over your painted pieces-- it'll help them last longer especially with being outside. A little extra effort, but so worth it!