Who says you can’t be festive and still create an elegant look? There’s no reason that an outdoor gathering can’t be chic and attractive. Even though some bright red, white, and blue decorations may not seem to lend themselves to elegance, it’s all in the way you put things together. You can try country chic with nostalgic Americana accents. Another idea is to simply choose deeper colors.
Deep blues and darker reds create a richer backdrop. Then, instead of fun and funky decorations that you see at most Fourth of July picnics and parties, you can try something a little different. Not that there’s anything wrong with bright, whimsical festoons but when going for an elegant look and feel, you might want to add just a bit more sparkle.
Instead of stars and stripes all over, limit the patterns. Use sparkly gold or silver stars as accents and add other shimmering touches. Gold and silver items mixed together look lovely against pure white. A shimmering centerpiece on a crisp, white tablecloth can be accented with deep blue or red tableware or a few deep red flowers can be added to the centerpiece for a punch of color.
Cobalt blue or a dark, luxurious red also makes a nice backdrop for white tableware. Gold chargers beneath plates will add to the rich feel. Golden star shaped ornaments like those used at Christmastime can be used instead of place cards. Just paint your guests’ names on them and glue a small cardboard easel to the back or simply lay them flat beside each place setting. Instead of an ornament hook, thread pretty ribbon through the hole at the top and tie a bow. Smaller stars can be used to make napkin rings. Hot glue a small band of shiny, gold, elastic cord to the back of each star and then secure around napkins.
Roses will make a perfect finishing touch for your elegant table and don’t forget to proudly display your flag.
Set a Festive Table for Fourth of July