
Are you all prepped for the Fourth? We’re headed up to mountains for a little R&R and celebration, and this Fruit-Tart Flag from Food Network is getting me in the Independence Day spirit.

Shells add such a natural, breezy, summery feeling to party decorations. Here’s a roundup of simple but beautiful ways to use them for your sea-inspired event this season.
{Oyster shell salt and pepper bowls from Country Living, shell-adorned cocktail skewers from Martha Stewart}
{Seashell centerpiece and flower arrangement ideas – the first from Country Living and [...]

{Photos from Martha Stewart}
String lights are an easy way to add ambiance to your outdoor parties. Here’s a quick roundup of options and sources for lighting up the summer nights.
{Globe string lights from Restoration Hardware and solar-powered lantern strings from IKEA}
{Capiz Cube string lights from Target and Arts & Crafts lanterns from Partylights.com}
{Luna Bazaar’s disco [...]