Create a Nautical Patriotic Tabletop

Ahhh…4th of July! It’s the holiday that never fails to thrill with its festive decor and summer treats. While traditional red, white and blue decor is always fabulous, certain decor and party tricks can get old, fast.  This is probably why I’m obsessed with nautical patriotic tables!  It’s a great way to avoid the 4th of July déjà vu and create a unique party that doesn’t have a flag plastered to every element.   Plus, it works all summer long for clambakes, lobster boils, beach days, you name it!

Of course, it helps that I found this pretty starfish wrapping paper and couldn’t resist! As I always say, you can find inspiration anywhere. Wrapping paper seems to be mine, especially for building a tabletop look.

Summertime means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the gorgeous weather and family and friends.  Having a few key items on hand makes it easy to pull this look together.

• Cut down on dishes by layering paper plates on regular plates as chargers; guests will use the paper plates!
• I love clear acrylic glasses for taking outside; less worry for breaking glass and they are inexpensive to find at any home goods store.
• Make inexpensive cloth napkins with patterned bandannas. Another option, trim material from a fabric store.
• Starfish and plastic sea creatures are a easy score from your local party or craft store as great table scatter.  Plus, you can include them in your home decor.  My blue starfish live in a giant bowl filled with sand in my living room and ties in well with my other patriotic decor.

• I love a pretty cake as a centerpiece but the real deal gets expensive! Confection Deception has problem-solved this with her new line of faux cakes!  Of course, this adorable octopus topper from her sister shop Painted Parade and a few shells makes it easy to complete the look.
• Speaking of food, keep thing simple with bowls of seasonal fruit, salad and other cooking-free fare.  My Red, White and Bleu Deviled Eggs do require a little heat but totally worth it. They are so tasty, so be sure and check out the recipe over on SoFab Food.

I hope you are inspired by my tips and create a table that feels as modern as it does festive! After all, it is all about easy entertaining.