With school out and the hot summer months ahead, now is the perfect time to get your pool towels, patio cushions, entertaining supplies, and outdoor beverage center in tip top shape.

Whether you live in an apartment with a small terrace or in a 4 bedroom home with a spacious backyard, you can organize your outdoor entertaining gear with these low-cost, budget friendly tips.

Avoid getting pulled away from your Sunset Breeze to retrieve extra cups or ice at your next party by creating an efficient space outdoors to store extra cups, beverages, and towels.  Have your items accessible when you need them and easy to stash when you don't. Your outdoor spaces should be a source of relaxation, not frustration.

Storage Bench: Save space in the garage and basement by storing chaise and chair cushions, beach towels, and outdoor blankets in a teak or faux-wicker box. Use the bench to set drinks on, too!

Ice Chest: Purchase a weather and insect-resistant cedar ice chest to keep beverages cold. The chest can double as a side table when the lid is in place.

Console: Create a place to serve drinks, store flatware, plates, plastic wine glasses, and extra party supplies. Invest in a weather-resistant console table which comes with a rack for hanging stemware and hole for a party bucket (reuse an old galvanized bucket to hold ice). Keep utensils, straws, and condiments safe from dirt and bugs by housing them in clear plastic storage containers with locking lids. Reuse a watering can to store serving spoons. Keep a basket handing for storing napkins.

Hooks: Line a row of hooks on an exterior wall or fence to keep used towels, wet bathing suits, and blankets off the ground and out of the dirt.

Hose Pot: Hide the unsightly hose (and keep it handy) by storing it in a bronzed hose pot.