I would love to have vintage black wrought iron, but had looked for a year or so, and never found a single piece. In the meantime, we needed something to sit on! I bought 4 chairs, a bench, and 2 side tables from Lowes for less than $700. We've only had them a few months, but we love the set! They're cast aluminum, very comfortable, and sturdy. My criteria was similar to yours, but since some of the pieces would be totally exposed to the elements, I didn't want any steel construction at all. I also wanted them to comfortable without any cushions, since I knew it would be futile to put them on the pieces that sit in the sun and rain. I'd like to get at least some pillows for the pieces on the covered porch, but it's more for color than comfort.

I have bought many photo frames over the years--for me, to give as gifts, and for photo exhibits. Almost all came from AC Moore or Michaels, usually purchased with one of their coupons. As for printing enlargements, I'm a big fan of Mpix.com. I've also used Adoramapix.com. The latter costs a little less, but I often take advantage of Mpix's sales--as I did this week when I used them to make a photo book for 40% off. The many 11x14 and 16x20 enlargements I've made for exhibits were all done by Mpix, and so beautifully. They also do the Christmas cards I design. PS: Adoramapix just announced a 30% off print sale (code Prints30Now). It expires 9/25.

art shows, local galleries, thrift stores. sometimes gifts from friends

That’s a tough one, especially when so many friends and family gift us framed photos that don’t always necessarily go with our decor. I like uniformity, and what I’ve done is take photos I like and scan them and convert to B&W. Years ago I bought black IKEA frames and cropped and printed the family and friends photos in squares and framed them to my liking, and created a row of framed photos in my dining area, opposite my art gallery wall. I think it looks “intentional,” and I get oohs and ahhs from family who have gifted their photos to me. Then, you can regift photos back to friends & family in the gifted frames, if you like. Or donate the frames. I’m just particular!