In addition to all the annual traditions like fireworks that come with the Fourth of July, America will celebrate 250 years of independence this time around. Make your holiday parties sparkle with a classic red, white and blue palette. This festive combination can elevate more than your table.
Local sources offer unique pieces. “Patriotism comes in many forms, and handmade is always a great nod to ‘Made in America,’” says Theresa Schierloh, who owns Dancing Eye Gallery in Northville. For instance, she adds, “Ceramic stars from local artist, Mrinalini, can echo any ‘stars and stripes’ decor.”
Limited edition prints that depict a U.S. flag mural on the Marquis Theatre in Northville by local artist, Jeff Von Buskirk, are among the other patriotic picks. The original honors 9/11. Vintage finds like a cowboy hat with a flag motif or handmade banners with a star pattern can also contribute to the theme.
Festive florals
At the Vines Flower & Garden Shop in Farmington, owner Michele Hinds shares some colorful arrangements for the historic occasion. “Red Gerber daisies are fun. There are minis and standards,” she says. “Mother Nature is so good to us with white this time of year; you can do lisianthus or snapdragons or white stock.”
Blue has some limitations, but you can get hydrangeas and delphiniums, adds Hinds, who arranges these blooms in colorful vessels for a festive feel, but clear containers work, too. “Hammered ball jars are great for outdoor use at a picnic table on the deck,” she says. “You can add little flags to your arrangements and some red, white and blue ribbon.”
For casual gatherings, a red, white and blue centerpiece can embellish a buffet on a kitchen island. “We encourage customers to bring in their own containers for arrangements or to reuse them, like bottle sets they can fill with loose flowers,” says Hinds. “It’s a great way to recycle.”
Colorful combinations
Sideways in Plymouth offers an eclectic collection that includes entertaining essentials, décor and more for the occasion. For instance, patriotic paper plates, napkins and table runners set a festive tone for all those Independence Day celebrations. “You can really put something cute together,” says manager Sigrid Doyle. “We also have nice quality linens and floral picks that add pops of color with red or white geraniums.” Dish towels, table runners and placemats that come in solid colors like blue or white make great hostess gifts for a holiday party.
Other accents in neutral hues can balance the colorful theme like natural baskets, containers and bowls. “Fun barware can be really pretty on a table and we have clear plastic drinkware like wine glasses and double old-fashioned glasses,” adds Doyle. “Layering the table makes a great statement.”
Classic Americana
Traditional looks with a twist can take your holiday decorations to another level. “Fourth of July entertaining is all about creating a space that feels festive, nostalgic and welcoming,” says Rebecca Talley, senior external communications specialist at Michaels. “We’re seeing customers gravitate toward classic Americana details with an elevated twist—think stars-and-stripes accents, gingham patterns, layered table runners, colorful melamine dinnerware, mini flags, and fresh florals in red, white and blue hues. Decorative touches like themed serving trays, candles and playful games can also help create a memorable gathering that feels both timeless and personal.”
You can stretch that sentiment around your home. “Holiday décor doesn’t have to be limited to the dining table,” adds Talley. “Decorative pillows can instantly refresh living rooms, porches or reading nooks, while framed art adds a festive touch to entryways, mantels or gallery walls.”
Interactive pieces like patriotic tic-tac-toe sets add a colorful flourish to coffee tables or outdoor entertaining spaces. “They serve as both décor and conversation starters,” she says. “Layering these accents throughout the home helps create a cohesive look that feels celebratory without overwhelming the space.”
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Festive ways to style your home to celebrate the USA’s 250th
Reporting by Jeanine Matlow, Special to The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Jeanine Matlow, Special to The Detroit News | USA TODAY Network
