Independence Day weekend is right around the corner and we can’t wait to celebrate with our friends and family! While there are plenty of events happening throughout our communities, we’re going to take advantage of our awesome apartments and bring the party home this year. Here are some of the things we are doing to have an awesome Fourth of July weekend.
DIY
Red White and Blue Beans
How simple is this adorable and affordable Independence Day decor? We love the more muted tones here, they ride the line between sophisticated and spirited beautifully.Check out The Kim Six Fix blog for styling inspiration, then when the holiday passes, use the beans up with this Mexican bean salad recipe from the Culinary Adventures in the Kitchen blog.
Carnation Balls
Carnations are one of the most affordable flowers out there (we’re having flashbacks to our 8th grade Valentine’s Day bouquets…), and these floral foam balls are readily available at your local craft store. Wow your guests with these simpler than they seem centerpieces from Country Living.
Stars and Stripes Mason Jars
Mason jars are all the rage right now, so why not one-up the trend with these patriotic, hand-painted versions? This is a super simple craft that is great for all ages, and makes for a versatile decoration- you can use them for holding everything from cutlery to flowers to party favors. You can find the tutorial on the It All Started With Paint blog.
Ready to find your next apartment?
Eat
Spinach Walnut Pesto Potato Salad
Trust us, this mouthful is one you won’t mind having a mouth full of! Skip the mayo and feel confident taking this farm fresh version anywhere without fear of spoiling, just don’t forget to check your teeth after indulging! A big thanks to Vikalinka for what is sure to be a summer recipe staple for us.
Sweet Potato Burgers
Burgers on the Fourth of July is kind of a no brainer, but why settle for the typical fare? This year, give one of our favorite tried and true recipes a chance to shine with these sweet potato and white bean burgers, topped with an unreal roasted garlic cream and fresh sliced avocado. You can find the full recipe and more drool-worthy photos on the fabulous How Sweet It Is blog.
Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad
This is another one of our go-to side dishes for summer gatherings and afternoon snacks. Take your watermelon to the next level by adding some creamy, salty feta and fresh, bright mint, but be warned, you will be asked to bring this to every party you’re invited to, forever. We typically top ours with a touch of balsamic, but we love Sweet Sugar Bean’s citrusy twist on the dish.
Drink
St. Germain Gin & Tonic
This twist on the classic cocktail is a fancy fake-out; simply adding a touch of elderflower liqueur elevates this everyday drink to a special occasion-worthy, crisp and refreshing indulgence. Follow the ratio guidelines on The Sweetest Occasion blog, then experiment with your own mix to find just the right level of sweetness for your taste.
Tequila Paloma
Anyone who knows Maddie fully understands her fondness for tequila, and she thinks this cocktail could help convert those who are not yet convinced of it’s glory. Grapefruit is the other star of this show, but if you’re feeling a little adventurous, do what we do and add a slice or two of fresh jalepeno for a spicy sweet treat! You can find the recipe here on b.britnell‘s blog.
Ginger Lime Spritzer
If you’re looking to lay off the hard stuff, that doesn’t have to mean sucking down boring water or sugary soft drinks all weekend. Try this incredibly refreshing recipe from the Taste and Tell Blog, which features two power house ingredients: lime for a detoxifying, metabolism-cranking, vitamin c punch and ginger, which provides anti-inflammatory, digestive and immune boosting goodness. Come to think of it, this would make a fantastic hangover remedy for Saturday the 5th of July…
Buy
Hanging Wire Lantern
We could go on and on about our love for Food52 and their Provisions department, but we’ll let you take a virtual stroll on your own time. One of their latest offerings is this mason jar hanging wire lantern that makes for versatile and romantic outdoor lighting. Customize the look with a variety of glass jars and candles.
Bamboo Serving Baskets
If you plan to dine outdoors, we’re sure nagging thoughts about bees and flies have crossed your mind. Covering your serving platters and bowls with these bamboo covers between serving will help keep insects away and allow you to relax and enjoy. We found these at our local Christmas Tree Shop, but you can order them online here.
Red and White Striped Paper Straws
Paper straws are another trend hitting the entertaining essentials circuit, and are an affordable way to elevate disposable goods beyond plain old paper and plastic. Get the patriotic juices flowing with these straws from Cost Plus World Market.
Learn
These tips will keep stress at bay and invite fun to stay:
How to take great firework photos with your phone
How to keep pests at bay, the natural way
How to keep your dog safe and reduce stress during fireworks
Listen
To these totally rad Fourth of July playlists, courtesy of: