Pall Spera Company Realtors-Stowe, VT
Pall Spera Company Realtors-Stowe, VT
Teresa Merelman, Broker, Pall Spera Company Realtors-Stowe, VTPhone: (802) 793-5171
Email: [email protected]

Outdoor decor: Tips & tricks for all seasons

by Teresa Merelman, Broker 11/16/2022

No matter the size or shape of your yard or patio, it's helpful to know the basics of using outdoor decor. You can decorate for specific occasions or change the entire aesthetic of your space in myriad ways - many without breaking the bank. Here are some common questions about decorating outdoors and tips to help you get started:

How do you decorate an outdoor area?

When decorating an outdoor area, try starting with lighting. Replace any existing light fixtures with more stylish options, and add more accent lighting to create ambiance. Hang a chic pendant light from a covered porch, or add magic with twinkling string lights.

Once you have your lighting, focus on defining the space. Combine an outdoor area rug with matching outdoor pillows for a simple outdoor decor formula.

What about outdoor decor on a budget?

Upcycling is a great way to decorate an outdoor living space on a budget. Consider repurposing old furniture pieces to give them new life outside. A fresh coat of paint and some weatherproofing can transform almost anything into patio furniture on a budget.

How do you weatherproof outdoor decorations?

It's important to protect your decorative items from the elements, no matter the time of year. Use a clear polyurethane sealant on wood-based pieces. To prevent wind-related damage, weigh down your outdoor decor by anchoring lightweight pieces to the ground, wall or a heavy object.

Can I temporarily decorate for company or special occasions?

Decorating an outdoor space with seasonal or holiday flair is a fun way to celebrate and show your creative side. When choosing more temporary decorative items, opt for those you can reuse the following year. If you're decorating for a special occasion, make sure to store these special pieces safely for later use.

What about semi-permanent decorations?

You can add a personal touch to your outdoor space without the need to change things constantly. Simple updates like adding new outdoor furniture or refreshing the garden will keep your space feeling stylish and low-maintenance. 

Are you ready to get started on your outdoor decor project? Keep these tips in mind to create the perfect vibe for your outdoor living area.

About the Author
Author

Teresa Merelman, Broker

 Teresa's beginnings were at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. She was child #5 of 8 and born into an Air Force family that moved all over the United States but usually ended up back in the Washington, D.C. area. Teresa attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and received her bachelor's degree in business from George Mason University, in Fairfax, Virginia. Some of her prior careers include: computer buyer in Fairfax, Virginia; Deputy Clerk at the U.S. District Court in Denver, Colorado; Police Officer in Steamboat Springs, Colorado; and Bed & Breakfast owner in Stowe, Vermont. Teresa obtained her license as a Realtor® in 1998. She has been through many ups and downs in this profession and continues to learn every day. She very much enjoys the real estate profession and the wonderful people she has met and assisted along the way. In order to serve her clients and customers, Teresa continually attends classes and seminars. Some of her Designations and Certifications include: 

  • ABR - Accredited Buyer Representative (2003)
  • CBR - Certified Buyer Representative (2000)
  • e-PRO - Internet Certified Professional (2001)
  • CNHS - Certified New Home Specialist (2005)
  • CRS - Certified Residential Specialist (2005)
  • AHS - Accredited Home-Stager Specialist (2008)
  • TRC - Transaction Referral Certification (2009)
  • RSPS - Resort and Second Home Specialist (2009)
  • GREEN - NAR's Green Designation (2009) 
  • SFR - Short Sales & Foreclosures Certification (2009) 
  • SRES - Senior Real Estate Specialist Designation (2012)
  • AHWD - At Home With Diversity (2021)
  • SRS - Seller Representative Specialist (2021)

Teresa has also served and continues to serve on several boards:

  • Lamoille Area Board of Realtors - President and Board of Directors
  • Vermont Association of Realtors - Board of Directors
  • NEREN (MLS) - Board of Directors and Shareholder 
  • Vermont Real Estate Commission - as a member of VAR's Liaison Committee
  • Stowe Vibrancy - Board of Directors - this is a volunteer group that promotes activities in the Village of Stowe

In 2007, Teresa was named Vermont Realtor of the Year.Teresa and her husband, a local attorney, moved to Stowe in 1987. They had two sons and Stowe has been their home for the past 36 years. She still feels the Stowe area is a wonderful place to raise a family, there's always something going on. Teresa can often be found behind the lens of her camera documenting the beauty of the area and its many events.As an update, Teresa's older son is now a Doctor/resident at the University of New Mexico's Emergency Management Program. Her younger son graduated from James Mason University and currently resides in Chicago, IL as a supervisor for OKTA.