Happy Fourth of July!! We celebrated America last night with a backyard bbq with friends. Even though rain threatened, we went ahead with our plans, but put up two additional tents just to be safe. We provided pulled pork bbq, slaw, macaroni and cheese, hot dogs, and bite-sized desserts. Beverages consisted of frozen margaritas, beer, wine, and of course, lots of cold water. Upon entering the backyard, a lantern with a double mesh bow greeted guests.
I found these patriotic candles at Pier 1 as well as the lantern, which was on sale!!
Torches lined the sidewalk, with white candles adorned with red and blue mesh bows.
This is a view of the party venue coming in.
Another view of torches and sidewalk from the opposite side.
Lots of red, white, and blue accessories on the bistro table coming in.
I found these great pillows at Joanne fabrics for a reasonable price.
On my stone console, I used my little pails with fireworks-type decorations. I love using quotes, so I added these with easels.
The cylinder globes held red and white marble fillers, red and blue wiry stuff with stars (I found this everywhere), water and white floating candles.
I added lots of American flags to my flower pots.
I usually buy flowers from Kroger or Fresh Market, but they were sold out of red, white, and blue flowers, for the most part. I did buy a few red and white carnations and some status. I used lots of greenery from my backyard.
More quotes on the tables!
We set up a bar for self-serve.
I used a tray with a festive placemat, and these wine glasses. The American flag container chilled the white wine.
Another table under the big tent was dressed with a blue-striped tablecloth, red runner, hydrangeas, and festive centerpiece.
Everyone brought a dish, so we needed lots of food tables.
My original thought was to use the round table for dessert, but we had to move desserts to make room for all the food!!
Plates, trays for hot dogs, and utensils wrapped in paper napkins tied with more of that wiry stuff that I don't know the name of.
Thank goodness for warming trays. Luckily I have lots of outlets in my backyard, and I used two warming trays to keep the bbq and mac n cheese hot.
A picture of the table before all the food!
I found these tall candlesticks at an estate sale.
I like using individual bags of chips for outdoor functions, because they don't get soggy.
A table for two . . .
Lots of lanterns, and even a fresh arrangement inside the house.
We had lots of fun, plenty of food, and when the rain came, we just congregated under the tents, moved the food under shelter, and kept the party going.
So, may God bless America, and bring unity, peace, and goodwill to our great country.
Have a happy Fourth, and be safe out there!!
Hugs,
--Betsy