Happy Sunday Friends! This weekend we got busy building a magical outdoor oasis. I had a vision in my head of a really really rustic, beat up table set with white pottery, florals and string lights hanging over the table.
Thing was, since we’re already into the first week of August, I didn’t want to put much ( if any ) money into this project.
Luckily, we already had the wood laying around to build the table and bench, so all we had to purchase was the lights, dishes and centerpieces.
Here’s a quick video on how we built the outdoor table.
Since it’s an outdoor table and my vision was for something super beat up, we didn’t even sand it down. The rain and sun will weather the table over time to give it that perfect weathered look.
We found the two end chairs in our shed, which I had forgotten about. I wanted to spray paint them cream, but since they’re left outside 24/7 all year round, I didn’t think they would hold up, so I left them as is. We also paired two mis-matched chairs with the table. I really want to find another weathered wood chair to go with it, so I paired one of our existing dining chairs that wasn’t in use with it.
I really wanted to have a garland that cascaded off the ends, but since there is plates at the ends.. it was kind of awkward. So we took some pine boughs as well as hydrangeas from our yard and some laurel and made a centerpiece.
As I was shooting these images, it was getting darker and darker. But I really wanted you to see how magical this oasis is.
Cost Breakdown On Our Magical Outdoor Oasis
-Center Lanterns 9.89 each x 2 = 19.78
-Small White Plates .50 cents each x 8 = 4.00
–Blue Glass Cups 4.00 x 6 = 24.00
-Outdoor Lights: 39.73
Total: 87.51
I totally get that we already had the wood and we built our table set which might not be feasible for many. BUT, I encourage you to shop thrift stores or Marketplace to find used treasures. You don’t need beautiful fancy new furniture to create a magical outdoor oasis.
How Can You Recreate Your Own With No Money?
- Shop the free section on Craigslist
- Check daily on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist and Garage Sales
- Frequently shop your local thrift stores
- Check sales sections in big box stores
- Re-use what you already have
I hope this blog inspires you to get out in your own yard and create a magical oasis you can spend the remainder of the summer.
As always, if this blog inspires you, I would LOVE if you shared!
I have to say, I would have never thought of this. So elegant and simple at the same time. Great idea on using items not used around the house instead of getting rid of them. I am going to look around my home to see what I can do. Thank you for the inspiration!!!