July is the perfect month for picnics, family gatherings and fireworks displays! We love to proudly display our red, white and blue in the food we make and the clothes we wear. How about a beautiful table display for your family to enjoy all month long? Here are a few tips to create the perfect tablescape for your home:
Keep it Fun!—When I think of the Fourth of July, I think of the outdoors, easy, friendly and family. Dressing your table for Independence Day (and the days after) doesn’t need to be serious or overthought. Is there a fun serving piece that you could pull out especially for the month of July? Why not choose a fun tablecloth with a bright pattern? If you have children or grandchildren, you may even want to use an outdoor tablecloth. This makes clean-up quick and easy!
Make it Festive!—If you want something simple, you know what color scheme to go with—a solid red, white or blue tablecloth look great! What else can you add to bring out the festivity of the season? Streamers, flags or grandma’s picnic basket all say Fourth of July. A red cloth with white pinstripes or polka dots is a nice addition to the table as well. Blue or red bandannas with white paisleys are only $1 in most craft stores, and they work great as napkins displayed inside a clear glass. You could even use one as a sail…
Serve it Fresh!—There’s something about fresh cut fruit and vegetables that make a table inviting. At mealtime, this watermelon boat makes quite a statement. Bring it out and every family member or guest is sure to smile! Start by slicing thin layers off the side of the watermelon to provide a sturdy base. Use toothpicks to make a cutting guide for your boat shape and windows. After cutting the boat’s shape, use a melon baller to scoop out lovely rounds to serve your family or guests. When finished, fill the vessel with balled fruit and cover with plastic wrap until mealtime. This is a beautiful serving piece and will last more than one day, covered and refrigerated. Fresh fruit skewers are also delicious and festive. You can see our version on pg. 128 of Southern Seasons 12 Months of Tea-licious Recipes & Ideas.
Accent in Floral!—A favorite step to finishing off a lovely tablescape is always bringing the outdoors in. In this photo, a lovely, white hydrangea is an understated accessory to this table. If you are already displaying the bright colors of our nation, feel free to choose a more neutral floral accent. White flowers from the bush outside, magnolia from your grandmother’s tree, greenery growing plentiful in your garden are all options to consider. If your décor is decidedly neutral, go for those deep red roses, blue hydrangea or other bright, colorful flowers. As for greenery, don’t ever forget about your herbs! Many ladies have a lovely herb garden and have never thought to decorate with those bright, green sprigs. Whatever you decide, I hope you add to your table something beautiful which will make you smile.
What About You?—How will you make your table lovely and inviting this July?