Backyard Oasis with Serena and Lily

Mike and I have really put a big emphasis on getting our yard in tip top shape for the summer. We’re (obviously) home a lot now and it’s been a DREAM to have a backyard. While it’s pretty tiny, it’s actually a very functional space. We are likely not going to be in this house forever (though we keep saying how much we never want to leave it), so we didn’t want to invest too much into the structural components of the backyard. (I got a quote for my “dream” construction back there and it was over $50k so I was, like, JK this brick patio works just fine.) That said, it is a super nice layout as is– we have raised garden beds, a patio for dining, and a small but cute grassy yard. We are out there all. the. time.

We have expanded our social distancing circle to include his family as of a couple of weeks ago, so having extra seating has been so nice when they come over to visit. And I got a projector so we can do outdoor movie nights and everything! (Okay, I’m laughing at myself because I guess being 30 is getting super jazzed about landscaping and yard furniture.)

Serena and Lily gifted me a few additional pieces to really bring the vacation home. I was disappointed to cancel my annual Nantucket trip this summer, though all things considered I’m extra grateful for good health and outdoor space. (After all, vacation is a state of mind.) With this set up, it kind of feels like we have a little slice of Nantucket at home.

I mean, can we talk about this gingham print?! It’s so funny but I ordered these sling chairs about a month ago and had so many friends send me links saying they saw the chairs and thought I should get them. I kept responding, “Already ordered!” I picked out the sling chairs for a very beachy vibe, but I love having different options especially when people come over. I’m tempted to pick up two of the folding style too because it can be carried like a backpack. (The sling chairs collapse flat.)

I think I am MOST excited about this umbrella. It is made to go into sand, but I popped it into an umbrella stand and it worked just fine in our backyard since I didn’t want to create a hole in the grass. I really try to avoid baking in the sun (as you can see… I am very fair and burn very quickly.) I’m excited to have this in our backyard but also to bring with us when we (eventually) get to a beach. There’s a joint mid-way down the pole so you can adjust the umbrella to make sure you get shade in the exact way you want.

If you want a small treat for your backyard, I can’t recommend these striped beach towels enough. They’re fluffy (and get even fluffier after washing!) and they’re long and wide. Great for laying out.

Sling Chairs (available in eight colors/prints) // Camp Stool // Umbrella // Beach Towels 

Thank you Serena and Lily for partnering on this post!