As summer is approaching, I find myself just itching to spend time outside. I love the summer evenings relaxing outside, and having the right outdoor furnishings is essential to enjoying it. We spend so much time making sure our indoor furniture is comfortable and attractive, it's time we bring the indoors outdoors. Technology in fabrics has made a huge move toward comfort. You can now use comfortable fabric and cushions that can be left out in the weather. Sunbrella fabrics will not fade or deteriorate in the weather, and you have tons of choices for fabrics as well: stripes, prints, jacquards, in any color you can think of. You can find cushions that are made to wick away water or let water go in one side and out the other-- my patio cushions have this feature. I can sit on the seats after a rain storm and not get wet-- it's amazing! And no matter your budget, you can find what you're looking for. If your looking for ways to save, check out Target or Lowe's. Or you can go for more luxury with Front Gate. And it's always a good idea to check moving sales or Craig's List; often times people don't want to move their outdoor furnishings.

The natural, outdoor feeling doesn't have to be limited to your back patio. Bring the outdoors in! Botanical, leaf, and nature motifs are on the rise for this summer's fabric as we go "green"-- both in behavior and in decor. Accessories can be the perfect way for an update with a leaf shaped plate or tray. Earth or stone hues and materials bring nature into your home, and they also create a more relaxed environment. And for the perfect accent, take time to plant flowers that you can cut and bring in over the summer months. Zinnias are a personal favorite that you can start from seed.

Take your inspiration from the changing seasons to liven up your home and start enjoying the warmer weather!

Jennifer Mangum & Suzan Meredith
Redecorate Today
www.redecorate-today.com