4 Backyard Hacks to Make Summer Entertaining Easier + More Fun

You don't need to spend a fortune to make hosting easy and fun.

Case in point: these easy projects DIY pro Carter Oosterhouse—including a floating cooler made with a pool noodles!

Starry Lawn
 

Rachael Ray Show

When you’re decorating your yard for the fourth, don’t forget to dress up your lawn too! Well, not your actual lawn -- Carter shows you how easy it is to spray paint stars on astro turf for a fun and festive effect!

DIY Pool Cooler
 

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There’s nothing like floating in a pool with a cold beverage, but those floating coolers can get expensive! Try Carter’s hack using a plastic bin and a pool noodle.

Colander Planter
 

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Hanging pots for your plants can get pricey -- why not make your own chic display with an enameled metal colander and some rope?

Double-Duty Table Cooler
 

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Ever thought of putting a cooler IN your table? Probably not! Try Carter’s hack -- cut a hole in the middle of your outdoor table and slide in a rectangular plastic gardening pot. Fill with ice and beverages and enjoy not having to get up to get a refill.

Relaxing Backyard Retreat

Carter also shared a project that was a little more personal -- his work in his own backyard to create a focal point and entertaining hub.

He took an area dominated by a drab fence and turned it into a relaxing destination by hanging mirrored “windows” on the fence, making citronella tiki torches and created a lighted rock semi-circle to create a focal point.

Watch the video below to find out how he did it, and to see his wife, actress Amy Smart, make a surprise cameo!