Yes y'all, it's already (mid) July. Two summer holidays down and some of those outdoor updates and to-dos still haven't gotten done! It's fine; you don't have to write yourself off just yet. I've got some tips to drastically change your outdoor space without breaking the bank or taking all your time.

Last week, I made some improvements to a client's patio. The patio isn't completely finished and there are some additional adornments I plan to incorporate to finish pimping out her space. However, I just wanted to share some of the updates made in just one day that was able to turn her patio from drab to charming. You can do it too! Yes, You've still got time.

So here are a few quick and easy updates to give any outdoor space enough of a boost to feel like a brand new escape:

1) START FROM THE BOTTOM! Get rid of that hideous outdoor carpet, or dress up that boring floor! There are several options and directions you can take here: paint a pattern on the floor using a design stencil or tape, paint or stain old wood, drop down a cute extra large rug or grab some easy-to-install tiles or wood decking! For this project my client had this horrific, 1960s outdoor green carpet. I knew for an instant transformation this was the first place to start. Ikea has some super easy, snap in place outdoor decking tiles. They come in a variation of styles: wooden, black and grey. We went with a neutral grey to pull her colors from indoors onto the patio!

If decking is more than you want to take on, a great rug is the best starting piece. I love to pick a fun pattern or bold colors that will help inspire the rest of my design elements (pillows, florals, etc).

2) TAKE A SEAT. There are easy ways to update your furniture: whether its adding a new coat and color of paint to a current patio set, adding new cushions and pillows or altogether buying a new set. This change will make for a noticeable improvement.

Remember, it's ok to start small. Outdoor furniture can be a big expense but start with your immediate needs and add on as you go! Think about how you'd like to use your patio and start there.

My client just wanted a place to sit out and enjoy a glass of wine and feel the summer DC night air. So we found a super cute Bistro set from World Market (on sale) that was a perfect fit. It doesn't take up too much space and makes for a great table to dine!

No, we're not done with seating. A lounge chair or hammock is to come but this was a quick easy purchase to spruce up her space and make it enjoyable NOW.

*Tips and Tricks: One benefit to getting started in the middle of summer is that most brands are looking to get rid of their summer stuff and get right for the Fall, so you'll find plenty of sales.

3) BRING THE SHADE. Add a little foliage. Not only do botanicals add to the aesthetic, offering a nice blend of wilderness and beauty, but they can be functional too. If you're on the east coast, the south or any humid area, you may find it hard to enjoy being outside without constantly swatting bugs away.

For natural ways to ward off the unwanted critters, try potting bug-repelling plants, such as: lavender, mint, rosemary or basil. Smells great for you and keeps them away.

And if you're not much of a green thumb, grab one or two easy to maintain live plants and mix in a few fake ones or flowers. Or, shoot, go all faux! Michael's and Hobby Lobby have some beautiful silk or premium plastic plants and flowers that could fool most! Ikea has some decent faux florals too but not as convincing.

4) LIGHT IT UP! Lighting is the key to creating the magic. From stringing up lights, to lanterns and outdoor candles, it's great to have a mixture of different lighting elements. Most home decor stores (brick/mortar and online) have an array of trendy, unique and chic lighting options just for outdoors. Solar powered, remote operated or batteries with timers; there are so many cute options that make it easy to leave it and forget!

5) MAKE IT PLAYFUL. Patterns, colors and textures; play with it all. Make sure to consider what will pop and use the florals, cushions and small little trinkets placed around to really add those final touches!

Those 5 updates can completely transform your stale outdoor space to a new escape in one quick day, on a budget! See details of my patio purchases and budget below!

Ikea Runnen Decking: $200 (Based on my client's sq footage! The largest expense)

World Market Bistro Set: $139

Botanicals: $50 (Home Depot & Michael's)

Lighting: $30 (Target and At Home)

It's not too late. 5 Tips for updating your outdoor space in one day without breaking the bank!