Home decorating, where does it begin? Where does it end? Outdoor decorating is just as important as indoor decorating. A beautifully landscaped front yard invites visitors to your home. A comfortable and relaxing back yard is a perfect spot for entertaining friends and family.

Outdoor decorating not only improves the value of your home but will also give you up to a 100% return on your investment. With just a few tips and ideas you can be on your way to enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Begin with a well thought out plan that includes landscaping, lighting, a focal point, an outdoor feature, pottery and possibly a sitting area. By thinking things out before you make purchases you can avoid costly mistakes.

The first step in your outdoor decorating project is to take a photo of the front of your house. This gives you the opportunity to look at your front yard objectively. Take the picture from the curb. Does your door stand out or blend in? Your front door is your focal point, so it should stand out. It directs your visitors and tells them where to enter your home. You can accent your front door by color and/or pottery flanking each side.

Another outdoor decorating idea to improve your home’s curb appeal is landscaping. Choose your plants carefully and they’ll reward you by thriving with very little care. Add different textures, heights and colors. Trees also provide shade and are eco-friendly by cooling your home and decreasing energy costs. Make a statement with colorful flowers. They make beautiful accents and can direct the eye to the front door.

Outdoor lighting plans are a great investment and a wonderful way to decorate the exterior of your home. You can use accent lighting, illuminate walkways and add carriage lights around doorways. Outdoor lights come in a variety of styles to complement your home’s décor.

Another tip for decorating your front yard might be a small sitting area if space permits. You can add a decorative outdoor bench or a pair of rocking chairs with a small beverage table between them. Add a couple of decorative outdoor fabric pillows. Maybe even some hanging plants.

Outdoor decorating should extend into your backyard where you can expand your living area while creating functional spaces. Keep with a style that complements your home decor. You can create a relaxation area, entertaining area or even an outdoor kitchen area.

When your outdoor decorating project is done, your front yard will be a teaser as to what’s inside. Your backyard will be an extension of your interior, giving you room to enjoy your little oasis. Happy outdoor living!