There’s no doubt that the holiday season can be a stressful time. Between traveling, shopping, and attending parties, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if you found out that there’s a place where you could escape all of that? A place where you could relax and take some time for yourself? That place is your backyard sanctuary.
With just a few simple changes, you can turn your backyard into an oasis where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of your daily life. Here are seven ways to make your backyard more inviting not only to your guests but also to yourself.

Step 1: Check out the ground
If it’s an old, dusty, mulchy patch of dirt, you need to clean it up so you don’t spend all your time sneezing. And if the ground is uneven, it’ll be hard to get around and will probably lead to your kids breaking their ankles.
A paving installer can give you options on how to make that area of your yard flatter for little ones running around. Plus, they can help you add more structure to an otherwise bumpy area.
Step 2: Pick a layout
If you don’t have the space to build a deck, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor space feel a little more like a backyard sanctuary. When you don’t want an actual structure, you can build a small patio with paving stones or bricks.
If you have a deck already, you can still make it more inviting by adding an outdoor rug or some brightly colored pillows to create a more casual seating area.
By creating different zones in your outdoor space, you can make it feel like different areas of the house. If you have an existing structure, you can also add some color by painting it in a shade that compliments your house.
This way, you still have a part of your house that you can take to the great outdoors.

Step 3: Prepare for parties
If you want to get the most out of your backyard sanctuary, it should be ready for some entertaining. Make sure that the outdoor space can handle lots of people by investing in durable furniture, more lighting, and maybe even a portable bar.
Plus, if your yard is near a pond or you have access to one, consider getting a gazebo for some added shade. You can also add a hammock or canopy so people can relax when it’s extra hot. And you’ll have a place where you can spend the quiet afternoons in the shade.
Step 4: Make it kid-friendly
If you have little ones, make sure your backyard sanctuary is properly childproofed. That means putting away any dangerous objects like poison ivy or other poisonous plants and making sure that the outdoor space is fenced in.
These kids’ outdoor playhouses are perfect if you want to add a little extra security and charm to your outdoor space. So, even when the kids aren’t in the yard, they’ll feel like they’re in a little adventure land.

Step 5: Add some greenery
Vegetables are fun to grow in containers and herbs are easy to maintain in small spaces. Plus, they just add a little something to the outdoor space, which is why you should try out some edible landscaping.
Artificial trees and potted plants are perfect if you want a lush garden without maintenance. Plus, they fit into just about any backyard sanctuary since there are so many varieties you can choose from.
Step 6: Provide some entertainment
Put out that old boom box and start cranking out your favorite tunes. Add in a badminton set and teach your kids how to play or pull out the water toys on hot afternoons.
If you’re feeling enterprising, you can even turn your backyard sanctuary into a personal driving range by putting up some artificial turf. Or you can make a little obstacle course with those old tires you’ve been hanging onto.

Step 7: Make it yours
It’s your backyard sanctuary, so do with it what you want. Although, check with your homeowners’ association if there are any restrictions on how classes of items you can use on your property.
Once you’ve done that, do some landscaping and spruce the place up. This way, your outdoor space will be the perfect place to relax and enjoy yourself, even when it’s raining. Get out there and enjoy your new outdoor space.
Now that you know how to make your outdoor space more inviting, it’s time to get out there and start enjoying it. After you’re done with the place, you’ll have a peaceful sanctuary away from the chaos of the outside world all to yourself.