Summer is the best time to take it easy outside and take in the mild evenings that follow a hot summer’s day. Get-togethers are even more of a relief in the chill of the evening hours. It’s a time for everyone to enjoy some time together laughing and having fun. There are great ways to transform your backyard into a perfect party place without going over budget. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of the summer evenings to come.

Clean out the area outside. Space is the focus here, so take the time to look through the garden tools, garbage, and miscellaneous stuff that’s scattered in your backyard. A tool rack, a large storage bin, or a cabinet with doors are all perfect ways to cover the rest and keep what you need in an easy-to-reach place. Once the area has been organized and you have extra space, get out the lawnmower, cut the grass and edge it to create a neat and tidy palette for your surroundings. A landscaped yard gives the illusion of tidiness and order and is crucial to any party area.

After cleaning out the clutter, choose where everyone will sit. If you don’t have patio furniture, consider purchasing some at a garage sale or second-hand store and making it look like new by adding some new pillows and repainting with some rust-repelling spray paint. You can get much more value for your money of furniture for very little cost and then make it look just like new. If you don’t have an overhang in your backyard, consider buying or renting a gazebo to create shade for your guests. They are like having a new room outside and have paneled doors that are easy to come in and out of and provide a great area for socializing. They can also serve to protect food from bugs if you choose to serve the refreshments inside the patio gazebo.

Everyone’s favorite part of a summer party has to be what’s to eat and drink. Lemonade with frozen pureed fruit is a great way to add color, flavor, and pizzazz to regular lemonade. You can also freeze lemonade into cubes and serve it with ice-cold citrus-flavored soda for a tart and tangy variation!

As the night comes in, the mosquitoes and moths come out, so consider buying the best insecticide you can find to enjoy more time after the sun goes down. They can really eliminate or repel the pesky bugs and improve your outdoor environment for you and your guests. Additionally, if you don’t have one already, you can buy an implement to keep a fire going outside for less than $200 from a local discount store. Search online for classified ads by people looking to get rid of their perfectly good outdoor products, because they’re moving or redecorating. This is a great way to get something you need for up to 90% less than purchasing them new from a retailer. For added pizzazz, try stringing some lights outside to make your party even better!