4th of July Inspiration

4th of July always sneaks up on me! I’m usually busy getting the summer started and then bam - It’s July 1st! This year, it’s been a little different since we’ve had some extra time on our hands (thanks to COVID), so I’ve compiled some of my favorite 4th of July recipes, decor ideas and cocktails. Hope you all have a very safe and happy 4th of July!

Enjoy, Kayla

Recipes:

My go-to 4th of July (and summer appetizers in general) are easy and festive finger foods. Antipasto skewers, cheese platters and anything on stick is easy! Fruit and veggies can help create a colorful and tasty display as well.

CAPRESE SALAD

INGREDIENTS

• Cheery Tomatoes

• Mini Balls of Mozzarella Cheese

• Fresh Blueberries

• Fresh Basil

• Salt, Pepper and Olive Oil

INSTRUCTIONS

• Place all ingredients into a bowl and toss with salt, pepper and olive oil (wait and add the basil before you serve, so the herbs don’t wilt)

• Serve Cold (super easy to pre-make)

• Optional: garnish with balsamic vinegar glaze

Decor:

4th of July Decor can be super easy and fun! Balloons make a BIG impression and you can always find inexpensive items on Amazon. I also love creating festive steamers or banners. You can place outside or around the bar or food areas.

Cocktail & Mocktail Ideas:

One of my favorites, Rose Popsicle Cocktail! You can use bubbly or sparking water as well.

ROSE POPSICLE COCKTAIL

INGREDIENTS

• Rosé wine (or bubbly or flavored sparkling water)

• Any fruit popsicles (for the 4th I like Red, White and Blue!)

INSTRUCTIONS

• Place popsicles in glasses right before serving

• Pour rosé over popsicles

• Optional: garnish with edible flowers for an extra touch

Hosting Essentials

Summer is right around the corner, and that means – Summer Hosting!  It’s no secret that I love to host a good party. I truly enjoy gathering people in my home and watching everyone interact. I also love creating and designing the décor - the little details really amplify the guests experience. But most of all, I enjoy bringing all the pieces together from the flavors in the food, to the refreshments and wine pairings to the party favors, really creating something my guests will remember. 

Below is list of hosting essentials you need on hand when planning a party or gathering.

Serving Platters

My favorite place to get serving platters is HomeGoods. They have a great variety of serve ware so you can find something for every occasion. When shopping, look for different sizes. You will need a variety of sizes depending on what you are serving. Smaller platters for appetizers and larger platters for family style dining. 

Cake Stands

You can use these for several different things – not just cake! I like to put cheese or appetizers on cake stands to add some height to my countertop. I also like variety in height as well. It’s nice to have some low and high cake stands so you can use them through your hosting spread. I like these from Crate & Barrel and CB2.

Beverage Pitchers or Dispensers 

I love creating a signature drink that is easy and delicious to serve. Beverage Dispensers make it so easy for guest to enjoy and low maintenance for the host, and don’t forget about a water station! I like this dispenser from Crate & Barrel.

Glassware

I like to keep beverage options simple when hosting (depending on size of party), but I like to provide the right glassware for the occasion as well. If we are hosting a sit-down dinner, I’ll choose to use my fancier stemmed wine glasses or if we are having a more causal event outside, I’ll use my plastic glassware.

Cocktail Napkins 

An obvious must. I look for unique ones and stock up when I can, so I have a good variety to choose from. 

Candles or Essential Oils

No matter who is coming over to my house, I either have a candle burring or a diffuser running. I choose between seasonal scents or citrus flavors. Nothing is more welcoming the scent of fresh aromas.

Décor 

Décor helps set the tone for your event. Whether your hosting a birthday party, holiday gathering or spring brunch, your décor will help bring it to life. My go to décor pieces:

• Florals: I either do something easy from a local market or order for a local florist.

• Tabletop: Candles, candle holders, runners, napkins, vases (variety of sizes) and linens. 

• Straws

• Stemless Wine Glasses or Plastic Stemless Wine Glasses

• Balloons and/or Steamers 

• Party Favors 

Additional Tips for Hosting:

• Make sure the trash is taken out BEFORE your guest arrive and that you have designated an area for trash to go during the event.  

• Make sure to have ice on hand – and extra if you're hosting in the spring or summer. 

• Separate the booze and food. People gravitate to the booze and food. So, it’s great if you designate a place for each to create flow between the two spaces. 

• Make sure to communicate the tone or theme of the event to your guests, so they know what to except when they arrive. 

• Prep as much as you can before – I hate running around an hour before guest arrive. So, I try and prep my décor and most food items the day before, so the day-of I can prep beverages and enjoy the party. 

• Plan your menu around what is in season. Seasonal dishes and beverage also help tie in themes. 

• Don’t forget the mocktail! It is nice to provide a non-alcoholic option for your guest to enjoy.

• Maybe a bit old school, but I’ve never hosted an event where someone didn’t ask for a cup a coffee. Depending on the time of your event, it’s nice to have a fresh pot of coffee brewed in case guest want a cup.