1) See what you already have on hand and keep the decorations to a minimum. A burlap runner, a tray, small florals from the yard, a candle and a few small trinkets keep this coffee table fresh, yet festive.
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| State Tokens Large USA Tray, Trinket Tray Star |
2) Forage your yard first for flowers. Hydrangeas are in full bloom, here in the Pacific Northwest, and the beautiful blue hues in these flowers make for a beautiful, simple centerpiece.
3) Dress up your mantel/fireplace with a simple garland or banner like our USA Canvas Bunting. A banner is quick to hang and can make any room holiday-ready in seconds.
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| USA Canvas Bunting |
4) Raid your grocery store bakery section for freshly made desserts & add to them. You'd be surprised at the selection! You may need to order a cake in advance but for less than $15, its worth it. This simple white cake is dressed up with in-season berries. For a different look, try topping the dessert with fresh flowers in red, white, or blues.
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| Dore Nesting Scallop Bowls, Les Desserts Round Beaded Pedestal |
One thing I've learned in my many years of entertaining is to zero in on your strengths. Are you a great cook? Put your effort and focus on that. Love baking? Bake your grandmothers blueberry pie from scratch. For all the rest, simplify it. Find ways that make the other tasks easy (like in the above suggestions). Or delegate tasks to others that emphasize their own strengths.
I hope that you have a wonderful weekend full of new memories, delicious food, great company, sparkling fireworks, and warm campfires. Here's to a very Happy Fourth of July!
Warmly,
