Guest Post: Festive Party Ideas for the Fourth

One of my favorite new reads is HEIRLOOM PHILOSOPHY - I love Allison's taste and am delighted she is doing a guest post today on entertaining for the 4th! 

When Kate from one of my favorite blogs, Party Resources, contacted me a few weeks ago about putting together a post with entertaining ideas for July 4th holiday, I had my own private fireworks celebration!

Having family and friends over on July 4th is a tradition in our house. The hydrangeas in my backyard are at peak bloom, perfect for a casual dinner under the stars.

Just as the sun is setting, after a long and casual farmer's market meal, we catch fireflies, light sparklers and then stroll the few blocks to the golf course with our picnic blanket just in time for the annual fireworks.

I like a homespun approach to July 4th decorating and entertaining. Here are just a few of the images I have collected that inspire me and will influence how I decorate this year:

1. Stacks of creamware plates in an old farmhouse.  

2. Flowers from the garden in little wicker covered cups

3.  Awning striped tablecloth from Antropologie.  You can find one HERE

4.  American flag waving in the breeze atop a coastal cottage

5. Hydrangeas and American flag from a family retreat on Cape Cod

6. Artfully arranged hotel silver with lavender and that killer striped napkin

7. Homemade pound cake with scented geraniums and edible flowers

Here is my menu for the 4th

All American Farmer's Market Menu

Mini Bacon Lettuce and Tomato Bites  RECIPE

Grilled Romaine Assembled Salad with Roasted Corn and Vegetables

Grilled Romaine Assembled Salad with Roasted Corn and Vegetables

3 hearts of romaine
3 ears corn
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
1 pint cherry tomatoes
3 ripe avocadoes
1 lb bacon fried crispy and crumbled
Croutons

Prepare grill to medium heat. Cut romaine in half, lengthwise, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on grill until charred, about 3 minutes. Turn to other side and char. Arrange on a platter.

Grill corn and asparagus on the grill until roasted. Cut corn from the cob. Arrange on the platter with bacon, avocado, tomatoes and croutons.

Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing


1 Cup crumbled blue cheese
1/2 Cup mayonnaise
1/2 Cup sour cream
2 T buttermilk
1 Tablespoon plus 1 Teaspoon lemon juice
2 Tablespoons chopped italian parsley
2 Tablespoons chopped green onions
Salt and Pepper to taste

Grilled Shrimp with Heirloom Tomato Relish RECIPE

After cooking, cleaning and decorating the house and table, I go to my local bakery. When I get home I put on my own touches by arranging it on a pretty platter and decorate with edible flowers.

Another no fuss dessert? Handmade waffle cones from the local ice cream shop filled with fresh whipped cream and topped with fresh fruit.

Have a Happy 4th!