The 4th of July

The 4th of July is around the corner and it’s time to throw together a quick, inexpensive yet chic table setting(s) and party decor for all of those guests that are coming over this weekend.  Don’t stress, stay calm and browse through some of these great and easy ideas to make your table stand out this holiday!  All it takes is a few arts and crafts, a quick trip to your local party store and a little baking..

These paper lanterns were made by the ever so creative Martha Stewart

Use red, white and blue tissue paper or wrapping paper to create whimsicle designs.  You can also cut out and make your own placemats using the same paper!

You can never go wrong with BIG, round paper lanterns from your local party store

Get out your white mugs and plates and splash the table with patriotic flags which can also be found at your local party store

Mix and match your napkins and placemats with your generic white china

Sometimes all it takes is a simple red napkin.  You could add a thick blue ribbon down the center of the table runner and voila…red, white and blue!

Look how gorgeous these carnation balls are!  Im sure you could find dyed blue ones as well and if not, you can dye them yourself!  Thoroughly saturate a 3″ sphere of floral foam with cool water and insert your short carnation stems until the entire sphere is covered.  How easy does that sound?

Dessert!  This is a sure way to decorate your table and get your guests to stay until the end.  Try the Barefoot Contessa’s recipe for flag cake.

Use blueberries and raspberries on white frosted cupcakes

Martha Stewart’s Red, White and Blue Desserts