Outdoor entertaining

I would love to win this contest for my husband. He works so hard in order for me to stay home with our three young children. His hours are long and he never complains. We have been in our house for nine years. Each year, we set aside an outdoor entertaining jar to save money for a new patio set and fire pit. We purchased our current table and chairs on clearance from Dominick's almost six years ago. With the Chicago winters, it has seen better days. Unfortunately, that money always goes to another more important need. For example, having to purchase a new hot water heater, fixing one of the cars or cleaning up from water in the basement. We love to entertain and have friends over throughout the summer, but with the state of our backyard, we do it less and less. I would love to win this wonderful contest and surprise my husband with a backyard makeover. I can't begin to explain how much it would mean to both of us. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Transformation by Viking Ski and Patio

Budget: $1,400-$5,000

The space on the back patio has ample room for a large dining set along with a conversation area to relax in. With the sliding glass doors leading out to the patio area, you would want to keep the furniture lower in height, so as not to block the view from inside. These two areas would allow for entertaining and an area for the family to relax at. With no mature trees in the area an umbrella would be a must for the dining table.

Products:

• Meridian Tangiers set, 42-by-84 inch oval table with six dining chairs. Cast Aluminum table and chairs. This set has lower backs so they don't block the view from the door. $3,200.

• A deep seating set with a couple of smaller lounging chairs for relaxing. $1,399.

• Another option for the relaxing area is a grouping of Adirondack-style chairs made from recycled milk jugs. Four chairs would be about $1,700.