BCP Blog
Let's Talk Summer Plans | A National Guide
Take a journey with BCP as we guide you from east to west and north to south, finding the best in summer must-haves! Explore what it takes to make the most out of summer no matter where you are. Whatever the plans, lasting memories are always made better surrounded by the ones you love most. With that in mind, making the most of your summer preparation should include BCP décor and accessories that cater to those gatherings.
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All Kinds of Shade: A Buyer's Guide to Patio Umbrellas
How do you pick the perfect umbrella for your outdoor area? It can be a lengthy process when considering shape, size, angles, convenience, and more. But we’re here to tell you – outdoor perfection can exist with the proper knowledge and preparation. At BCP, we try to make sure we’ve got something waiting in the wings for any- and everybody. So, we’ve broken down our wide range of patio umbrellas in hopes to provide a little perspective about the right one for you. What good is a patio umbrella that blows with the wind? Yours should stay put in the location you’ve set it, which is why the combination of design and materials is so lucrative. Each umbrella in our diverse catalog is crafted with a heavy-duty steel frame and weather-safe polyester canopy. We don’t need to tell you what that means for longevity, but aw heck – you convinced us. No matter the time of year, our umbrellas are built to last, rain or shine! Heavy winds are a little trickier, however. So, we’d recommend closing your umbrella and storing it in a safe place when they occur. Market Umbrellas There’s something to be said about a classic appeal, and that’s exactly what comes with a market umbrella. This is at the top of the list of the most well-known outdoor umbrella styles. Our signature style keeps you shaded under a classic, straight-lined canopy held firm by 7-8 ribs. Cool & consistent airflow is also provided with its top air vent. Plus, when your market umbrella is built with tilt adjustment like ours, you’re able to enjoy shade from sunup to sundown. [carousel name="market-umbrellas"] Cantilever/Offset Umbrellas Patio umbrella poles often find a way to get in the way. For those looking for a solution, an offset umbrella just might be your perfect pick. At BCP, 360-degree rotating umbrellas are considered cantilever, while offset umbrellas don't rotate. These innovative shade essentials stretch over areas expanding from 9-13 feet. Place it behind your patio furniture and worry not about having to look around a pole as you and your loved ones enjoy conversation. Also, keep in mind your house’s position relative to the sun when deciding the perfect umbrella for you. While some umbrellas won’t need to be able to spin 180 degrees, others may need to, depending on the time of day. [carousel name="offset-hanging-umbrellas"] Solar LED Umbrellas Here’s where things get interesting! Any umbrella can relieve you with shade, but only the best ones provide light when then sun says “goodnight.” This umbrella uses the sun to charge throughout the day while keeping your patio cool and shaded. When the moon takes over, each of your umbrella’s ribs are laced with lights that keep the patio lit up at nighttime. The LED feature is available in both market and offset designs. [carousel name="solar-lighted-umbrellas"] A Couple Things to Consider Even if you put your umbrella through the center of a table, we recommend using a weighted base for stability. Refrain from leaving open umbrellas unattended. Close the canopy before walking away for extended periods or storing it vertically in a table or on its own. We hope this has helped you determine the best umbrella for your outdoor space. When you make your decision, don’t forget to share photos of your setup with @bcproducts on Facebook and Instagram!
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From the Base Up: A Buyer's Guide to Patio Umbrella Bases
The heat is turning up to ten and it’s time to turn your patio décor up to 11! So, what makes a perfect summer day? Cool drinks, comfortable seating, and plenty of shade. At BCP, we just so happen to be experts in that last one, but dozens of umbrellas won’t do you any good without the right base! Umbrella bases are one of those niche items you don’t pay much attention to, but that’s what makes shopping for them so fun! Umbrella bases now come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and utilities. We focus on some chief areas when developing our bases: There are dozens of umbrella styles, and the right base isn’t an easy find. Fixed, mobile, or fillable? How heavy should it be? What’s the pole diameter? Bushings, what they are and why you need them? These are all factors to consider before you choose a base. It may seem complicated but trust us when we say we have done a lot of the work for you already! Let’s start with the type of base. Coming back to the pillar of versatility, there’s nothing more convenient than the ability to just pick up a garden fixture and go! To this end we have created a line of mobile umbrella bases; each one features a set of high-density wheels for rougher terrain, and locks for security. The benefits to a rolling base are obvious; if you’d like to go elsewhere to relax, you can save your back and roll it along. Because they’re designed to move, these bases also add a level of modularity to any outdoor set up. There are drawbacks however, namely that they can get away from you. You may forget to set the locks, we’ve all done it, and send them crashing on a windy day, damaging your umbrella. It’s scenarios like this that draw people to the traditional fixed base. Most of our fixed bases use a rigid plastic shell, filled with a solid ballast like dried concrete. While this base is more difficult to move, you can rest assured, it’s not going anywhere! These bases are also extremely durable, resisting impact and acting as a firm anchor for your personal relaxation space in the garden. The biggest drawback to these is their weight. Bases like these tend to be 80lbs on the lighter side, and it can be a long way from the front porch to the backyard. Before you start thinking that you must choose one or the other, we have a way to compromise! Combine the versatility of movement with the reliability of ballast using fillable bases! This is where things get creative; we design artful shells with unique shapes and motifs that are ready to be filled with your choice of sand or water. Take advantage of the light weight and choose the ideal spot, then leave the base there and fill it with your choice of ballast. You want to move it? Empty it and get going! This all sounds great but there are a few caveats depending on your ballast. If you live in an area with particularly cold winters, the water can freeze, cracking the plastic and ruining the base for future use. Meanwhile, sand won’t freeze but it is much heavier and harder to dispose of than water. Still, with the right considerations, this type of base can easily be your outdoor shade solution. So, you know the three styles of umbrella base, now comes the all-important question: how heavy should it be? When choosing the right base weight, the general rules are: Bigger is better, and the larger the umbrella, the heavier the base. You should also consider where you’ll be using this base. Does it need to fit under a table? Is the area a high traffic one? Will people bump into it or move it around? Is it a wind trap? All these factors can be overcome with a simple mathematic rule. At BCP, we know umbrella math! Simply take the diameter of your umbrella in feet, then multiply by 10. For example, if you have an umbrella with a 10ft canopy, you need at least 100 pounds of weight to hold it down. A 7.5ft canopy would need a 75-pound base, and so on. To be clear, this is all depends on your specific needs. You could certainly get by with a lighter base, but the larger an umbrella is, the more space there is to gather wind and lift it from the ground. This is important for table umbrellas as well; a weighted base will keep both the furniture and the umbrella safely on the ground. Lastly, never leave an open umbrella unattended; always close the canopy before you walk away to keep it in working condition. The weight has been figured out and you know what style you want, now we need to know what fits together. As you can imagine, each umbrella base is built to accommodate a certain range of styles & pole diameters. Trust us, there is nothing more awkward than when you go through all the trouble of choosing the perfect umbrella and base, only for them not to fit together. Style-wise, the most crucial difference to consider is whether you’re going with a market umbrella or an offset one. A market umbrella features a central frame or pole which feeds directly into a weighted base. Meanwhile, an offset umbrella canopy is projected from a base which sits adjacent to the canopy. This is done to provide more space beneath the canopy and better control the shade. It’s also worth noting that while market umbrella bases are smaller and mobile, most offset umbrellas feed into a cross base which is connected to weights or fixed to the ground with stakes. Again, your choice is what matters, but it never hurts to be thorough when selecting your umbrella. So let’s make sure everything fits together. While most top umbrella brands will provide exact dimensions for each pole, they can be spotty with the bases. That said, there are some key innovations that will make the selection process easier. The first is adjustment knobs. If your base has at least one knob, then any umbrella with a diameter smaller than the receiver has the potential to fit. This comes with one caveat; depending on the material of the pole, you may be subjecting it to extra wear and creating a pivot point for wind to bend it under the right conditions. The second innovation is bushings. Most bushings are made of high-density plastic; they are simple rings, or sometimes sleeves, that fit into the receiver to tighten the diameter without adding strain on the pole. Keep in mind that bushings work best with at least one adjustment knob. The bushing keeps the orientation upright while the knob adds security. In effect, both tools can do their job while lowering the risk of damage. Of course, both of these tools are great, but they’re no substitute for simply doing your research and making sure your umbrella pole and base receiver match. When shopping, you also need to consider the diameter, the material of the pole, and what you’ll be using it for. The weather is changing, the patio season is in full swing, and you deserve every advantage available. When selecting your base, you need to consider the style, the weight & material, and what features and specifications they come with. Whether you choose a market, patio, or offset umbrella, the correct base is waiting for you here at BCP! Use this guide, get shopping, and make the most out of this Spring and Summer! [carousel name="umbrella-stands-accessories"]
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Box Gardening 101
As more and more of us adjust and develop a more home-centric lifestyle, one should never underestimate the rich rewards that come with tending and growing your own garden. Aside from the literal fruits [and vegetables] of your labors, there are many benefits, emotional and physical, enjoyed by the home-gardener: For those new to flexing their green thumbs, there’s no better space than a garden bed to get started. Fewer weeds, reliable drainage, and less soil erosion are a few well-known benefits to garden beds, but in general, garden beds serve two purposes: they create an isolated enclosure for specific plants, and they maximize small spaces. Let’s start with the enclosure; it’s common knowledge that soil chemistry and pH affect how certain plants—especially flowering and fruiting ones—grow. These enclosures allow you to supplement your soil with additives until it is ideal for whatever plants you decide to grow, without detracting from nearby plants or existing soil deposits. As for space, the compact dimensions of garden beds force you to make smart choices and study the plants you want to grow. For example, you could fit, at most, one pumpkin in a 4x4 garden bed. But in that same bed, you could grow a dozen strawberry vines! With these two concepts in mind, you can truly begin to make the most of your garden bed. Now we get to the most unique feature of garden beds: micro-environments! By mimicking the conditions of soil around the world, you can create the ideal for a variety of plants! Imagine growing succulents in the dead of winter or harvesting blueberries in the fall. It will take work, time, and a few tries, but that could be you! Alright, so you know that garden beds are amazing, but before we get too ahead of ourselves, let’s shift focus to another important topic. Just like the most important part of any plant is its roots, the most important aspect of a garden box is its material. For our purposes, we like to stick to one of two materials: wood and metal. Both have their virtues and drawbacks, but what makes these two materials so great is their durability. If you are someone who enjoys frequent experimenting, it can quickly get expensive to purchase new garden beds. That’s why these two materials are great, simply remove the previous soil and plants, and you’re ready to try something new all over again. On the subject of wooden planters, most agree that wood has three advantages. First, the traditional look has both charm and appeal that looks natural alongside most outdoor setups Second, wood is an excellent insulator that, with a few garden blankets, can protect your plants from frost in the colder months. Finally, wood is easily customized and biodegradable, so when this planter finally breaks down, you can easily dispose of it or reuse it somewhere else in the garden. Metal planters have their own merits as well. First, coated metal can last up to 20 years with the right care since it doesn’t break down nearly as quickly when exposed to the elements. Second, maintenance is very easy; most garden bed materials require regular upkeep to stay water-resistant, coated metal does not. Keep in mind, certain conditions such as excessive salt in the air, may break down the protective coating faster than in other areas. Finally, setup is a breeze with most metal plates being precision-engineered to exact specifications. Whatever your decision, we highly recommend sticking with wood or metal. As other materials like plastics, foam, and composites break down in ways that involve much more complicated clean up. So now that you know how great garden beds are and what materials to look for, let's find out what kind of garden bed is right for you. When choosing a garden bed, they usually fall into one of two categories: elevated and raised. Simply put, a raised bed is a bottomless partition that sits on top of an existing soil bed. An elevated bed is a partition, with a bottom, which is set off the ground with stilts or legs. As with materials, both setups have their advantages and disadvantages, which is why it is so important that you make the choice that suits your needs and limitations. An elevated bed is a wonderful thing for both homeowners and apartment dwellers alike since it provides space for planting where before, none existed. An elevated bed allows you to turn a paved patio, balcony, or otherwise inhospitable area into a flourishing garden. Furthermore, because the bed is a freestanding structure, it can easily be moved with the right configuration. Imagine setting up your garden bed on a set of wheels on an east-facing balcony, moving it inside when the weather turns, and then sliding it out again, no worse for the wear. This level of control and the security that comes with it is easily the most attractive part of an elevated bed, but there are some ergonomic benefits as well. For starters, the height reduces the need for painful bending or kneeling, reducing the strain on your back and knees. In addition, these elevated beds are separated from the ground, so harmful pests like gophers, moles, or skunks will be discouraged. Raised beds may be somewhat restrictive in terms of placement, however, they are wonders of size, shape, and versatility. Since raised beds are built on existing soil, they are great for people who want a garden but prefer to have wide-open spaces. With a 6ft x 6ft x 2ft garden bed you literally have 72 cubic feet of space to work with and still have the rest of your yard for other projects. Community garden plots? These are a perfect way to cordon off your space and reduce invasion from whatever weeds or blights your neighbors may have. The best thing about raised beds is their versatility. Available in many shapes and depths as high as your waist, the sheer number of possibilities for planting can be staggering. In a bed 1ft deep you can plant a collection of lilies and root vegetables, while in another 3ft deep a lovely sapling of a clementine orange can take root. You now have the 101 basics to build a perfect garden! As you prepare to grow your green thumb, use the essential tips below to enrich the blueprint to your outdoor utopia and reach in to a season full of bloom! As an example, say you want to grow daylilies, here’s how you begin. Daylilies thrive in full sun as well as partial shade, depending on how hot the days are. They also love moist, yet well-drained soil filled with organic matter for structure and insulation, just a touch on the acidic side. As a bulb, lilies like to be planted deep, at least 12 inches down, and in groups of three for support and more full blooms down the line. So, knowing all of this, you could use an elevated garden bed, with wheels in case of weather changes, and top off the soil with some coffee grounds for added acidity. After planting, water once a day to moisten the soil and allow drainage. In time your flowers will bloom, your intuition will develop, and before you realize it, you will become a gardener!
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Floor and Gaming Chairs Buying Guide: How BCP Designs a Customer-Favorite in Entertainment
Whether you’re a combat gamer or role-playing type, whether you prefer the latest releases or are a nostalgia-junkie - we know everyone, has a gaming side. If you’re like us, you know that there’s nothing worse than being interrupted in the middle of the game, like having to shift in an uncomfortable seat right when the battle heats up. Thanks to our gaming chair collection, you can experience the ultimate in-the-zone kind of comfort and say goodbye to the “pins and needles” sensation of your leg falling asleep from sitting in an ill-suited position. Upholding a Family-Centric Legacy At Best Choice Products, we know how to produce serious entertainment. Our gaming-chair collection is made with your family in mind because we know that there’s nothing like spending an evening with the ones you love - laughing, gaming, and having a good time. We build fun, quality products that will help our customers make memories that will last a lifetime, and our gaming chairs are no exception. We designed these chairs with care and attention so your family can game together in maximum comfort. How We Score Against the Competition Although these chairs are the ideal seating when it comes to video-game night, many families do without it because of their expensive price tags. Most gaming chairs you find online cost around $200. But we believe in making high-quality products affordable to the average household. That’s why we built a variety of gaming chair options for every family and budget, all under $120. How BCP Gaming Chairs Stand Out In our catalog, we wanted to provide a chair for every style and need. Our detail-oriented approach ensures that each chair has a unique, elevated feature that appeals to each of our customers. [carousel name="gaming-chairs"] Our 360-Degree Swivel Gaming Chair is designed with mesh material for a breathable surface that can withstand hours of play. This chair is also designed with convenient characteristics like armrests and a 360-degree swivel for that extra excitement that comes with scoring a victory! We also wanted to provide some multifunctional seating options that can also be used for other activities. The Multipurpose Adjustable Floor Chair is designed with microfiber for added comfort that can be used for gaming, reading, and studying alike! Unlike our 360-Degree Swivel Chair in bold colors, this chair comes in more neutral tones to match any room in your home. If you still want a gaming-only seat, but with a touch of homely elegance that blends with the living room furniture, our Folding Floor Gaming Chair is a perfect balance. It’s got a classy look with neutral colors, high backrest, and linen fabric, but with the unbeatable comfort of cushioned seats, adjustable positions, and 360-degree swivel. To top it off, this seat is foldable and lightweight, so you can easily move it from the living room to the kid’s room with ease. Whether you’re a serious gaming family, or just looking for something to fix your kids’ slouching position - no more settling for a lousy seat on the carpet floor. At Best Choice Products, you can afford a plush, full-comfort chair for a truly game-changing experience.
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Fire Pit Buying Guide: Step-By-Step to the Perfect Fire
A fire pit is more than just an accessory to have planted in your outdoor space; it is more than a source of heat. Owning a fire pit is an invitation! When the sun goes down, but the party wants to continue, fire pits ensure that your evening keeps its spark.
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Backyard Buying Guide | Ch. 3: Umbrellas & Umbrella Stands
The patio’s always cooler on the shady side. Find the perfect outdoor umbrella for your space with our breakdown of all things umbrella. Learn the best styles, shapes, sizes, and features for you and your family’s needs. Open up your backyard to a new patio umbrella for comfortable coverage all season long.
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Upgrade to More Than Memory Foam: Green Tea & Charcoal Infused Mattress
After an in-depth research into what makes a mattress truly improve sleep and promote healthy habits, we developed the Charcoal Gel & Green Tea Infused Memory Foam Mattress. Composed of reactive ingredients for flexibility, gel powder, bamboo charcoal, and green tea powder – this mattress is going to be your new best friend.
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Backyard Buying Guide | Ch. 2: Outdoor Furniture
Transform your unused outdoor space into a place you can truly enjoy. Whether you’re looking to spend quality time with loved ones or entertain guests over dinner, our collection of wicker, wood, and metal tables and chairs are ready for the job. Follow along and discover the perfect patio furniture for any backyard.
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