Real World Soiree {Fourth of July Bash}

We are continuing the holiday week into today with a look back at my Fourth of July bash. This year Rob and I took two days to celebrate with a trip the beach on Wednesday and a crab boil and oyster shuck at the house on Thursday. The way I figured it was if I couldn't be at the coast on the Fourth, I might as well bring some of my favorite things from the coast here. The intent was to do the crab boil outside, grill the oysters and enjoy a pitcher of sangria with friends. However the constant rain we have been receiving for the last week, put a kink in that plan. We moved the party inside but kept the feel the same. Rustic touches, bold blooms and patriotic elements filled the room. We wanted to keep the whole gathering simple, stress free, and big on fun. Even with the rain and cancelled fireworks, it was just that. I can't wait for next year's get together as we may just have to make the crab boil and oyster shuck a tradition!

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Happy Fourth of July!

I hope everyone is enjoying their day thus far. I'm taking today off from posting to enjoy it with friends and family. It's slated to be a pretty rainy day here but that's not going to stop us from celebrating in true American style. We've got a great menu planned including a crab boil, steamed oysters, sangria that's been marinating for two days, and more. Sparklers will shine as we bask in the independence of our country. While we may be enjoying backyard BBQs and fireworks today, don't forget the real reason behind the celebration. Be sure to take a minute and realize that the day is about our Independence and the fact that we live in one truly amazing place.

Have a happy and safe Independence Day!

Party DIY {Flag Garland}

Believe it or not, I'm just about ready for this years Fourth of July bash. Seems crazy I know, to be ready two days early, but with a quick trip to Jacksonville planned for tomorrow, preparation was the least stressful solution. All that is left for today is to prep out the menu leaving only assembly and cooking for Thursday morning. The house is all decorated with patriotic DIYs, one of which I'm sharing with you today. This flag garland is easy to make and a simple rustic statement to adorn the front of tables or windows. All you need is a bit of twine, hot glue and some small flags. There is two different ways to make it too. You can either leave the flags on the wood poles or remove the staples and glue them to the twine. Here's the how to both ways...

:: Supplies ::
Miniature Flags
Twine
Hot Glue
Scissors
Pliers 

:: Directions ::
(For Garland on the Pole)
1. Measure a piece of twine 1.5 times the width of your window. Place one flag in the center of the twine and tie a knot around the top of the pole. 
2. Place a flag on either side, 18" from the center flag. Tie a knot around the top of each side flag. Hang across window. 

(For Lose Flag Garland)
1. Measure a piece of twine 1.5 times the width of your window. 
2. Using pliers, remove staples from flag to disconnect from pole. L
3. Lay twine flat on the floor. Place a strip of hot glue at the top of the flag and attach at the center of the piece of twine. Repeat with remaining four flags placing 18" apart. Hang across window.

Have a great Tuesday!

Color Me {Red, White & Blue}

Happy Monday! It's Fourth of July week and we are gearing up for a week full of patriotic goodness. Over the next couple days, I will be posting some fun all American DIYs to make your July 4th gathering stand out. Today, though, I'm sharing the inspiration behind the celebration. Stars and stripes provide not only great pattern but symbolic meaning accompanied by signature shades of red, white, and blue. I plan to fill the house with bundles of red carnations and blue hydrangeas, DIY flag garland, star spangled table runners, and more. July 4th is the quintessential All American summer holiday, and one of my favorites I must say. I can't wait for the week of festive posts and the big celebration on Thursday. Until then, let's just enjoy the inspiration and dream of fireworks to come...

Have a happy day!