The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate summer, friendships and the red, white and blue.
Vail Design at Altitude column
By Yvonne Jacobs
It is no secret that the Fourth of July is almost as big as Christmas around here – we are not afraid to go all out with the red-white-and-blue theme. But in order to do it right, there are some parameters we follow. Buy accessories that you can use year after year – don’t throw them away or think of disposable items. There are high quality, colorful, fun throw pillows and throws that add to the festivity of the week – and weekend.
Ok, we love the colors but there is a limit to just how far we can go with red, white and blue so it’s not cartoonish or kitschy. Here are a few of my favorite ways to incorporate the celebratory colors into summertime without going over the top.
Make your exterior welcoming. Create bold, overflowing baskets of red, white and blue flowers to welcome guests and to celebrate summer. There are decks in Vail that are perfect for parade viewing. Be understated but show your excitement with a few chairs that have patriotic-themed throw pillows (think red pillows next to blue-and-white striped pillows); hang up a swag on the roof overhang; or find contemporary, triangular flags. Don’t forget to hang the flag if there is a flag holder!
On the patio, add in some colorful flowers and colored twinkle lights for the full effect. Continue the theme by jazzing up your existing patio furniture. If you have red cushions, put a few white and blue throws on the chairs. Using blue placemats, add white plates and pops of red with napkins. Put drinks with ice in steel containers – add in a few red and white containers for color.
Create centerpieces that shine. Put a few small flags in an Americana-inspired jar for the centerpiece. Pull out the crystal candlestick holders, add red, white and blue candles for a bit of sparkle that pops. For more shine, put the candlesticks on sterling silver trays.
Change out artwork. A few years ago I bought a piece of antique wood painted with the American flag – I put it up every year. It adds to the holiday and I love to see it; it means summer is in full swing! Maybe you have an American-inspired flag painting – put it up either in the foyer or find a spot out on the deck for it. If the party is going late in the night, make or buy luminarias with white bags and glittery stars. Use a candle if you’re daring or a small flickering light for the walkway or on the deck railing.
Wow kids with pinwheels made from red, white and blue paper. It’s a fun twist on little flags and captures hearts of little (and big) kids.
Let’s dish – there are so many ideas to add color to the table with food. Watermelon, raspberries in bubbly, bowls of blueberry or strawberry shortcake all add edible pizzazz to the tabletop.
The choices are endless and the colors vibrant: bring the fourth to your home sooner than later this July!