Foodie Friday: 4th of July Party Essentials

We are changing up Foodie Friday this week, as I sometimes like to do. With the 4th just around the corner, it is time to start planning your party. The fireworks certainly take center stage, but your tablescape should be a showstopper, too. I say embrace the red, white & blue, but keep it chic, too. Don't worry, next Friday will feature fabulous recipes for the holiday. Here's how to make the sparkling Sprinkle Cake above.

Everything You Need to Host a Fab Fourth of July Party

Red, White & Blue Paper Pinwheels
Create your own fireworks with these fun and festive fans and party decorations. Hang them from the ceiling or on the wall. They make a perfect backdrop for a family photo booth. 
Party Fetti at Etsy   

More Cupcakes
Here's a sweet way to show your patriotism. Made just for Williams Sonoma from Chicago's famous and best cupcakery. Three flavors - Chocolate Vanilla, Red Velvet and Vanilla Valrhona. It's a perfect gift or festive dessert for your holiday celebration.
Williams-Sonoma  

Kim Seybert Linens

No one does a tablescape better than Kim Seybert. The pom pom napkins couldn't be more chic. See them at Gracious Style. Find more of Kim's things at Neiman Marcus    

Americana Pie Dish
What's more American than Grandma's apple or rhubarb pie? If you are bringing dessert, bake a perfect pie in this dish. Now on sale at...
Sur La Table   

Evite Invitations
It may be a little late to send a paper invitation, but it is never too late to send an electronic one. It's an easy way to be spontaneous and stylish. No stamps required!
Evite 

Bentley Monogrammed Beverage Set
High quality plastic make this set patio or poolside perfect. Now on sale.
Neiman Marcus    

Juliska 
If you prefer a tablescape that doesn't scream 4th of July, look to Juliska to do red, white, and blue, tailored and chic.

Image 1: Estate Navy Placemat   Juliska Provence Stripe Napkin   Delft Blue Goblet     Country Estate Blue & White Dinnerware   Berry & Thread Ruby Bowl

Image 2: Exotic Tile Continental Napkin Blues Napkin  Berry And Thread Scallop Charger Plate   Acanthus Gold Leaf Dinner Plate   Colette Delft Blue Dessert Plate   

Compostable Wooden Hot Dog & Sausage Trays
Hot Dogs and the 4th of July are a perfect pair. In fact there is a National Hot Dog eating contest  every year on this date. It's always good to have the right serving pieces. These are great. They match any decor and are compostable! 
Food52 

Fourth of July Paper Straws
Blend up some milk shakes and serve with these straws for stylish sips.
Cravefetti at Etsy   

Strawberry & Basil Pie

From Brooklyn's famed Butter & Scotch. This pie is both classic and creative. It is shipped frozen so it will be oven fresh for the 4th. 

Dean & Deluca

Serena & Lily Outdoor Dining
Be sure to look to Serena and Lily for a little red, white, and blue inspiration....you will find it in every department. I love how they have styled this outdoor dining picture.  Shop The Look:
Teak Garden Table    Milano Dinnerware    Fouta Beach Towels   Riviera Bistro Chairs
Serena & Lily    

Free People Star Sparklers
If you are like me, and don't have access to those "on the highway" fireworks superstores, these are a good find. Trust me, the sparks will fly at your party.
Free People  

The Petite Pizzeria
One of my favorite things. I own this. "Shop This" brings it to you again, and this time it is on sale. I can imagine bringing this as a host gift for your 4th of July weekend. Or consider making pizzas as appetizers at your 4th of July Barbecue. Best yet, who doesn't like pizza at any time of the year?
Sur La Table     

Star-Spangled Spatula
Uncle Sam's and any all American grill master's favorite utensil.
Food52  

Mrs. Prindables Apples
Get a Patriotic Four Pack for your holiday party. They make fabulous favors, or add them to the dessert table.
Mrs. Prindables  

Large Bamboo Cutting Board
Think about using these boards for service instead of cutting. Love them for appetizers, Mrs. Prindable's Apples, Cheese, shot glasses and more! They would be great looking in multiples.
Burke Decor

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Summer Surprises For The Host & Hostess

Invited to a Summer dinner party or weekend getaway and not sure what to bring? Here's inspiration that is guaranteed to get you asked back again and again.

HERE : 15 Haute Host & Hostess Gifts

Salad Days Gift Box
Summers are for salads.  Supersize theirs with fab finds like Fig Balsamic Vinegar, Maple Sherry Bourbon Vinegar, Meyer Lemon Salt, a Wooden Spoon trio and so much more!
Domino  

White On Bright Personalized Notepads

Haute Papier's paper pads are the perfect addition to any desktop or chic counter. This is a gift that they will actually use. 
Zhush   

Mario Luca Giusti Outdoor Drinkware

No more broken glasses! I have seen these in person. Unless you pick them up, you have no idea that they aren't crystal. A pretty and practical gift for pool parties and alfresco dinner hosts.

Gracious Style

Metallic Pineapple Tumbler
Give your host an insta-vacation with a pair of these. In copper or silver, these tumblers make a happy home for any cocktail. By the way, the pineapple is the symbol of hospitality. 
Food52  

Kiss Cocktail Napkins
Your host will kiss and tell everyone where they got these. I am a bit obsessed with them.
Kelly Wearstler  

Ghost Ship Kite XL Model
Haptic Labs' cool kite is really a functional work of art. "Each kite is handcrafted by a certified Fair Trade group in collaboration with Balinese artisans." The perfect gift for a sailor or a family with active kids. They will think that their ship came in!
A + R Store 

The Greatest Guest
If you want that title, bring this. Each item is unique and delicious. Think Pineapple Lime Cocktail Mixer, Smoked Cola Gumdrops, Mission Almond Butter, White Truffle Popcorn and so much more. It's all served up in a good looking tote, so no gift wrapping required.
Mouth.com 

Alchemy Collection Votive Holder
Votive holders can be a dime a dozen, but these are unique. Love that they are metal which makes them patio perfect. By the way, they are no quite a dime but are super affordable. 
Burke Decor    

Kate Spade New York Wine Tags

These are great to have around the house. They will turn any bottle of bubbly into the toast of the town!
Swoozies 

Handmade Tamales
Send your weekend offering before you arrive. These tamales are terrific! You can only find them at
Neiman Marcus   

Giant Yard Dice
You'll be the life of the party and the good times will roll with this artisan made game. 
Uncommon Goods 

Wine Lovers Herb Garden Kit
A creative kit for wine lovers (i.e. almost everyone). It comes with a booklet of wine pairings for herb seasoned dishes. I bet they don't have one of these!
Shop Terrain   

Enamel Candle Tumblers
Candles have become a bit expected, but the truth is everyone loves them. These fragrances are so unique and perfect for Summer. Think Grapefruit Oleander, Pineapple Cilantro, Blackberry Absinthe and other perfect pairings. The unbreakable containers travel indoors or out and can be repurposed after the 70 hour burn time.  Love these.
Illume Candles  

Brunch Market Bag
Going for the weekend? Pack up this bag with wine, flowers, and goodies from the Farmers Market. Present it all upon arrival. Your host will love the way it looks chic and effortless on display at home.
Lulu & Georgia  

Beaches By Gray Malin
This is your "shore" thing gift if visiting a friend's beach or lake house. The photographer points his lens at coastal landscapes from Chicago to Capetown.
Amazon



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Wedding Wednesday: What To Wear To A Summer Soiree

This is the first Summer in a long time that I don't have a wedding on the calendar. If I did, I would most certainly be looking for a new outfit. My own party picks have seen a few too many dance floors. Any Summer soiree is a good time to respect the occasion and dress up. Here's inspiration.

ASOS Wedding Dresses
Three dresses, each one fabulously floral. All of them are budget buys in the best of ways!
 ASOS  

Macie Dress
Painterly pretty, and ever so feminine! It's less than $200.
BHLDN    

Ted Baker Julee Midi Dress
This beautiful bodycon dress is a chic choice for a daytime or garden wedding.
ASOS  

Jenza Pleat Wrap Dress
Having a feminine flourish and a sophisticated vibe, this look is a perfect choice for daytime and evening. It's reasonably priced.
Coast Fashion   

Marchesa Notte
So romantic and fanciful with a floral bodice. The high low hem adds the drama.
Dress   Jan Tran Headband

Lace Off The Shoulder Dress
Here's your little black dress for Summer. You will love the "little" price tag. Only online.
H & M     

Rubin Singer Striped Cocktail Dress
As seen on Red Carpets everywhere on the likes of Gigi Hadid, Geena Davis and more. His gowns are expensive but the styling reflects the price. This number is my pick of the edit.
Neiman Marcus 

Vince Camuto Shift Dress
An easy look with slightly sexy details. The shift could look even dressier with pointy toe pumps or strappy stilettos.
Nordstrom

 

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School's Out For Summer: Let's Play!

It's officially Summer, and most of the kids are out of school. Now what?  For some, there is camp, but what to do on the days before and after? Time to get out and have some fun in the sun. Here's a roundup of toys that will keep the kids happy all Summer long. It's also a great shopping guide for Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and weekend guests. The shortest route to your hosts' heart is a gift for their child!

HERE: 13 Fun Finds For Kids

Design Your Own Kite

Inspiration for hours! First there will be some quiet time while they hand paint their own design. Then give the kids their exercise and the excitement of seeing their own design in action. A great little birthday party gift.
Hearthsong 

My First Garden Planter and Accessories 
Here's a way to get them to eat their veggies. Have them grow their own! This child-size wooden planter will give the kiddies hours of time and a new respect for nature.
Hearthsong  

ALEX Toys Active Play Gigantic 3 in 1 Net Set
Little hands will have big fun succeeding in three different outdoor games - Volleyball, Badminton, or Tennis. Everything you need is included for 3 years and up. 
Amazon  

Kiddimoto Balance Bike and Helmet
Not only are these bicycles cool, they teach kids how to balance for a lifetime of cycling. For kids age 3 and up.
Barney's New York  

Candylicious Bubbles
Bubbles have been a Summer staple for decades. Now they are even better because they are edible! This big kid thinks this is a fun idea for a birthday party. Think of the YouTube moments! Read all about this FDA approved treat!
Amazon     

Flamingo Inflatable Pool
A pink flamingo always brings lots of smiles. Fill it with water for hours of Summertime fun. This gift really makes a splash!
Pottery Barn Kids

Pacific Play Tents Ice Cream Truck Playhouse
Let's face it, we all scream for ice cream.  The kids will chill out while playing and scooping up some soft serve in this indoor/outdoor tent. Good to know that Amazon has this $50 less than other stores.
Amazon   

Mini Metal Play Table
If molded plastic just doesn't blend with your outdoor decor, try this set. It's both good looking and practical for picnics for two, playtime and more.
Land Of Nod   

Versatile Bilibo Toy 
Children ages 2 - 7 will love their Bilibo to rock, roll, spin in, sit on, peek through , and more. This award winning toy has unlimited play value, and can be personalized to the pace of the child. Great indoors or out. Not convinced? watch a really cute video of this terrific toy in motion.
Hearthsong   

Micro Mini Deluxe Scooter
Too cool for school but perfect for Summer. This terrific toy makes exercise fun for little two - five year olds. The smart T-Bar accommodates little ones as they grow. Lightweight and portable, it's travel friendly, as well. Off to Grandma's they'll go.
Giggle  

Hydro Twist Pipeline Sprinkler
Super sized old fashion outdoor fun!
Target   

Light Up Hula Hoop
Better get more than one of these, because the adults will certainly want one, too! A great way to extend Summer fun from day to night.
Hearthsong

Vilac Skittles Set

Candy coated fun! Kids five and up will love trying to knock these colorful skittles down. 
Alex and Alexa

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