Since it’s the 4th of July weekend, what better way to celebrate than daydreaming about the ultimate cabin getaway? Because whether you have a place up north to escape to, or you’re still in the Pinterest stage of creating that perfect “one day” mood board, one thing’s for sure - you don’t have to settle for a dreary and musty wood-paneled home. Read on for my top five tips for creating an ultra-chic cabin on a dime - with a few inexpensive and creative tweaks, you’ll never want to vacation anywhere else.

1. Vintage Furniture 2. Outdoor Love (Black Owned) 3. Mix & Match (Black Owned) 4. Cabin Theme 5. Spruce Up the Old

NO. 1 VINTAGE FURNITURE

Here's the thing about cabins - for most people, they aren't primary homes, so you don't want to put all your money into high-end furnishings and decor. Instead, go the vintage route and look for unique, but inexpensive, pieces that will give your cabin that extra touch of flair. A whimsical bench could be just the thing to welcome your guests inside!

NO. 2 OUTDOOR LOVE

With the exception of rainy days, the best part of cabin life is getting outside. So, while you want to avoid spending too much money on interior furniture, you definitely want high quality pieces on your patio, porch, or pier! Hammocks, Adirondack chairs, pool loungers - whatever your style, go for comfort and you'll never want to leave!

NO. 3 MIX & MATCH

Don't be afraid to mix and match in your cabin - in fact, embracing that English countryside aesthetic may be just the thing to give your style an eclectic infusion that's totally irresistible! Layer different chairs, side tables, and antique decor on the walls and you're sure to have a home that's got charm written all over it.

NO. 4 CABIN THEME

Any themed space can go too far if every surface is covered in kitschy pieces. But for cabins, we can make a small exception. By incorporating a few key elements together - like a collection of vintage oars or buoys - you get a totally unique look that feels ultra cabin chic. When in doubt, ditch the mass-produced art and go thrifting!

NO. 5 SPRUCE UP THE OLD

Most cabins out there aren't exactly brand new. In fact, plenty of them feel permanently lodged in a bygone decade. So, what's the solution to making it feel modern? Work with what you've got! Paint existing beams, replace simple light fixtures, upgrade window treatments, and more - you'd be surprised what a coat of creamy white paint can do to a dark and old-fashioned room!

What are your holiday plans? Are you doing a “staycation” in the backyard with the fam (complete with BBQ goodies and sparklers for the kids)? Or are you heading out of town to soak up all that lake life has to offer? Whatever your plans, I hope you have the best weekend and get plenty of relaxation and rejuvenation. You deserve it. Happy 4th!