July 4th Tablescape

Before I share my July 4th tablescape I have a small confession: I am over my obsession with vintage. This realization hit me recently in a popular craft store as I was eyeballing the complete domination of vintage-inspired items stacked from floor to ceiling. The clutter was suddenly overwhelming and just too much. I thought of my countless trips to thrifts stores and vintage markets collecting cute trinkets to make cute displays throughout our home and had a personal epiphany of trinket overload. So, no more loading up on mason jars, ticking, old pictures, Victorian pictures, farm chic, etc. Truthfully, with a busy life it feels good to purge.

Don’t get me wrong. I still plan to use occasional vintage items, but the appeal of minimalism and simplicity is calling out. So, I am responding. So, this year we are doing a fresh new coastal theme and menu for our annual 4th BBQ which also means coming up with new decor. Ocean themes are fresh, clean, and simple which is how I want to feel right now. Hopefully, this theme inspired you in your 4th celebration.

Armed with new purpose, I went to Pier 1. Pier 1 was a favorite of mine years ago before I got into the vintage scene. I’ve returned to loving the fresh, modern decor of Pier 1 with its touch of romance. Since we typically set 6-8 tables for this event, I scooped up all the clearance red and blue table runners as well as other matching linens that had nautical appeal. Additionally, I cleaned them out of small lanterns in red, white, and black that I got for a great price of $9 each! I painted the black lanterns a nautical blue to match the tablecloths. The lanterns add an ocean lighthouse feel that looks great on the runners with assorted shells. I will probably add sand inside the lanterns to set the candles in.

There was also a day trip to my favorite beach, Cannon Beach, to buy shells and sea stars for decor on the tables. I also ordered fishing nets on Amazon and found some craft rope in my supply closet to help complete the look.

When put all together it results in an eye-pleasing nautical theme with patriotic flair. I ended up ordering more shells on Amazon because there wasn’t enough, and I knew these were useful items for other purposes. Additionally, friends and family can borrow them for their own events. Amazon also had these wonderful Irish, deep sea clam shells that are so nice I ordered another set. Some craft rope in my supply closet made great nautical napkin holders as you can see above. Loosely tied, it gives the impression of a sailor’s knot. The coral salad servers are a great touch and my favorite find for this event. They are perfect for the salad bar! Speaking of, don’t forget to check out the other posts and printable menu for this July 4th series.

One last note, we are using paper plates and plastic cups for our BBQ because 40-50 people are attending. The dishes shown are simple and striking and perfect for a smaller group!

I hope you have enjoyed this July 4th celebration series and found inspiration for your own July 4th tablescape. Thanks for stopping by !