How to Decorate a Festive Lantern for Fall

How to Decorate a Festive Lantern for Fall

by | Aug 21, 2023 | At Home, Fall, Halloween, Holidays/Occasions, Thanksgiving

These festive lantern ideas for fall are perfect for adding warm autumn ambiance to your home or office space.

Festive Fall Lantern Decor - lantern with white candle surrounded by fall leaves with decorative fall stem hanging from top

I have a few festive lanterns that I keep up year-round in my home, and what makes them festive is decorating them for the current season or holiday. It’s so easy and with fall arriving, I can’t WAIT to get out my decorations. Living in the desert, we don’t get a lot of natural fall beauty, so we create it ourselves. We do have a little fall color if you drive outside of Phoenix to higher elevation, but if you plant a color changing tree in Phoenix it gets confused and starts changing in December, haha.  

So, with this extremely cozy and delightful time of year approaching, I thought I’d kick off the season with this fun and simple decoration that’ll add ambiance to any humble abode. Come with me and I’ll show you why you’ll love a festive lantern, what you’ll need, where to find what you’ll need, how to put it together, and where to display it.

Why You’ll Love a Festive Lantern Decorated for Fall

  • You’ll love how quick and easy it is to put together.
  • A lantern decorated for fall adds ambiance to any space.
  • You can display the lantern year-round and change just a few elements each season.
  • There are many ways to add your own creative touch.

What You’ll Need to Decorate a Festive Lantern for Fall

Base Pieces:

Lantern/s

Maybe you already have some lanterns in your home, but if not, there are many options out there. I recommend finding styles that are neutral so they can be incorporated into your everyday décor. With endless styles to choose from it’ll be easy to find a color and style that goes with your existing décor.

festive lantern items - lantern, fall leaves and stems, lights, ribbon, candle, mini orange pumpkin

Seasonal Décor Options:

Candles or Lights

Depending on how you plan to decorate your festive lantern, you can choose decorative miniature lights or a candle for ambiance. If you decide on decorative lights, battery operated are best, so you don’t have a cord coming out of the lantern. As for candles, a simple white color is a classic choice or candles in red, orange and gold are fitting for the season. You can also find candles in various fall shapes or patterns like pumpkins, leaves, ghosts and more. Consider battery operated candles if you’d like your candle to glow, as it’s always the safer choice.  

 

Fall Leaves and Stems

Autumn Leaves in colors of brown, red, orange, and yellow are great for the season. You’ll find various fall stems with berries, wheat, leaves, pumpkins, acorns and more.

 

Pumpkins and Gourds

Miniature pumpkins, faux or real are a fun choice for decorating your festive lantern. Little gourds in oranges, reds, greens, and yellows are other great options.

 

Ribbon

Stores often have ribbon in various fall patterns and colors this time of year. Opt for a wired ribbon to give your bow a nice shape. You can also find premade bows this time of year in the seasonal section at your local store.

Where to Find a Lantern and Décor

Craft Stores, home stores, big box stores and online retailers are a few places that offer home décor like lanterns, candles, and lights. These types of retailers also carry seasonal décor including leaves, faux pumpkins, fall ribbon and more.

How to Decorate a Festive Lantern for Fall

There are so many ways to decorate a festive lantern, but let me show you a couple of simple ideas:

Festive lanterns with white candle surrounded by fall leaves with decorative fall stem hanging or orange ribbon on top

Option 1

  1. Place candle at the base of the lantern in the center.
  2. Surround the candle with fall leaves.
  3. Add a fall stem or ribbon to the top of the lantern.
  4. Display and enjoy!
festive lantern in black and filled with sparkly orange pumpkins and battery operated lights

Option 2

  1. Using an enclosed lantern with a door, lay the lantern on it’s back, open the door and fill with pumpkins, gourds, fall leaves, or any combination of the three.
  2. Weave battery operated lights throughout the décor inside the lantern, hiding the batteries where you have reasonable access to turn it on and off.
  3. Display and enjoy!

These are just a couple of options. Take a stroll through the seasonal section at local stores or peruse online for endless Halloween, Thanksgiving, and other fall decorations to display in your festive lantern. Get creative with it and design something that you can enjoy all season long.

Where to Display Your Festive Lantern/s

Front Porch

Create a welcoming fall scene on your front porch! Surround your festive fall lantern with leaves and pumpkins on top of mini hay bales. Put up some lights or garland. Add a fall wreath with lights to your door and a festive door mat.

On the Wall

Hang your lantern on the wall in a space that needs some extra pizazz. If you have two lanterns, place them on either side of your television or a piece of wall art for a pleasant look.

festive lanterns on wall by tv - "Pumpkin Patch" sign above tv - fall garland, blankets, pumpkins, and flowers also decorate room

Counter or Kitchen Island

Decorated lanterns look great on kitchen islands. You can also place one on the kitchen counter in a corner for a nice look. They also go well on bathroom counters between two sinks or in a corner.

Console Table

Display your lantern on a console table near your entryway or in living rooms or dens. Make them part of a larger display, surrounded by other fall décor to add to the overall look.

Shelf

Shelves are another great place to display your festive lantern. Place it near some stacked books with a pumpkin on top or next to a picture of the family at the pumpkin patch.

Tabletop

Make festive lanterns a part of your in or outdoor tablescape. It’s great as a centerpiece on its own or surrounded by other décor. Keep it up all season long or enjoy it for Halloween or Thanksgiving.

Desk

Warm up your office space by placing the lantern on your desk where you’ll enjoy it while you work. I don’t know about you, but I do my best work when I clear the surrounding clutter and work in a pleasant space!

Thank you looking at these festive lantern ideas for fall! How will you decorate your lantern and where will you display it? Let me know in the comments below!

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9 Fun 4th of July Decorations that You’ll Love!

9 Fun 4th of July Decorations that You’ll Love!

by | Jun 26, 2023 | At Home, Holidays/Occasions, Independence Day (American), Memorial Day, Summer

These 4th of July decoration ideas are the perfect way to add festive flair to your home for this patriotic American holiday!

9 Fun 4th of July Decoration Ideas - white bouquet with flags, flag pillow, God Bless America sign, patriotic wreath, chair with pillows

4th of July where we live in Arizona is hot, hot, hot! In fact, the few weeks surrounding this patriotic holiday are the hottest of the year here. Although we Arizonans are tough and acclimated when it comes to the heat, we definitely wait until the sun is ALL the way down to watch or light off fireworks. An ice cold beverage is a must!

Arizona’s weather is quite a contrast from where I grew up in Oregon. When 4th of July arrived each year, it meant that we’d finally get to enjoy warm weather and perfect temperatures consistently for a few months. It marked the end of the gloomy, rainy skies and we loved it!

In both Oregon and Arizona, I’ve often had a few small decorations up for Independence Day, but this year I decided to add a few more. The Arizona heat had me venturing into the cool air-conditioned craft and home stores in my area, which carry a nice selection of 4th of July decorations, and I couldn’t resist adding to my limited collection. So, let’s take a look at how I decorated my home this year in hopes you find some ideas and inspiration.

Why You’ll Love 4th of July Decorations in Your Home

  • Putting up Independence Day decorations before the holiday arrives encourages you and the family to enjoy the celebration for the entire season instead of just one day.
  • It’s a fun way to change and freshen up your space.
  • 4th of July decorating is fun for kids.
  • Many options are simple and easy to do!

4th of July Decoration Ideas

1. Bouquets or Plants with Flags

white pitcher with red flowers and two American flags on blue placemat sitting on side table

If bouquets or plants are already part of your décor, simply add a few small flags. If not, choose a simple base that matches your style and décor like a vase, pitcher, bucket or flowerpot. Add real or faux flowers and flags. I have some white and blue flowers year-round but add red flowers to this white pitcher with flags for the season. Dollar and craft stores often sell little flags for a budget friendly price.

2. Festive Pillows

Patriotic pillows are found at home stores and online this time of year in the U.S. Some pillows have flags or 4th of July sayings on them. Others have fireworks or patriotic patterns. Red and white striped pillows or solid colors in red, white and blue work well too. Couches, chairs, benches, and beds are great places for pillows. I added the adorable star-shaped pillow pictured below to a chair in the corner of my family room/den.

3. 4th of July Wall Art

Home, craft and discount stores often carry wall décor for the season. The wooden flag decoration in the image below was found for a very reasonable price at a discount store. You can find other wall decorations like pictures with patriotic quotes or 4th of July scenes. I’ve also seen painted metal stars, flowers, doggies wearing flag scarves and even patriotic gnomes. There’s something for everyone.

4th of July-decorations - white with patriotic pillows, flag sign hanging on wall above and blankets on blanket ladder

4. Blankets

Cozy blankets in various textures and materials adorn the shelves at home stores all year long, but patriotic patterns and colors can be found this time of year. A throw for a couch or bench adds a level or warmth to your space. A decorative wall ladder as pictured above is a fun and practical way to store blankets. In this case I simply used a blue and creamy white blanket that can be displayed this way for much of the year (until I put my Christmas blankets up of course)!

5. 4th of July Tiered Tray

A patriotic tiered tray is a great 4th of July decoration that allows you to add your own creative touch to a fun little project. There’s so many fun things you can add to this decorative piece and it’s something that’s fun to change out for any season or holiday. Click here to learn How to Make a Festive and Fantastic 4th of July Tiered Tray.

4th of July decoration of white tiered tray with patriotic red, white and blue decoration and white lights

6. Patriotic Wreath

Wreaths are a classic way to add charm to your space. Hanging them on the front door makes your home inviting to arriving guests, but they look nice on almost any door, mirror, or open wall space. Craft, home, discount, and big box stores carry seasonal wreaths as well as online retailers. You’ll find wreaths made from various materials including faux plants and flowers, patriotic craft ribbon, tinsel-like metallic material, wood, and more.

4th of July decoration - red, white and blue wreath hanging on white door

7. Kitchen Towels

Displaying towels in patriotic colors and designs is another way to add 4th of July decorations to your home. Not only are towels with seasonal patterns fun, but they’re practical as well. Solid red towels are great for multiple holidays and seasons like at Christmas paired with green or in the fall paired with orange and yellow. Blue and white towels can be used all year long, but work well when displayed with patriotic patterns.

4th of July decorations - white towel with red and blue stars surrounded by two blue towels with red and white plaid pattern

8. Centerpiece

A centerpiece is a fantastic way to add 4th of July style to your home. Dining tables, kitchen islands, console tables, side tables and more are great places to add this type of decorative piece. In the image below, I used a lantern with a neutral white candle (I use these pieces all year long). For the season, I added a small piece of red, white, and blue patriotic garland to surround the candle. Other options instead of the garland piece include faux berries, flowers, and plants in the appropriate colors. I’ve also seen little sparkly fireworks, patriotic ribbon, red, white and blue lights, beaded garland and more.

4th of July decoration - wooden lantern with light beaded pattern with white candle surrounded by patriotic tinsel garland

9. Porch Entry Signs

Welcome signs or other tall, leaning porch signs are another fun way to decorate for the 4th of July holiday. These are also found at craft, home and discount stores this time of year, as well as online retailers. There are many options for patriotic sayings or designs and I’ve been seeing some that even fold in half making storage easier when not in use. Pairing the leaning sign with a wreath on the front door makes for a warm and welcoming entryway for guests arriving at your home.

4th of July decoration - tall red "God Bless America" sign with blue edges with white stars leaning against entryway of home

Thank you for checking out these fun 4th of July Decorations! What patriotic decorations will you put up in your home? Let me know in the comments below!

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Easy Patriotic Pancakes for 4th of July Breakfast

Easy Patriotic Pancakes for 4th of July Breakfast

by | Jun 19, 2023 | Holidays/Occasions, Independence Day (American), Recipes, Summer

4th of July breakfast will be a hit this year with these easy red, white, and blue festive patriotic pancakes!

4th of July Breakfast Pancakes - red and blue star pancakes with whipped cream and red, white and blue sprinkles

Early 4th of July Memories

The 4th of July holiday brings friends and family together to celebrate the freedom we are so grateful for in the USA. For me, some holidays are rich in tradition, while others offer something a little different each year. Although fireworks have always been the main event on this patriotic holiday, each year was celebrated a little differently.

I have fond memories of saving my allowance and heading to the firework stand with friends or my brother when they finally opened each year. Some years Dad would take us to pick out a big stash and we couldn’t wait to light them off with family in front of our home that night.

I grew up outside of Portland, Oregon, which borders Washington state, and I had a good friend from church who lived just over the border. Her city allowed bigger and better fireworks and put on a large firework show at a venue and historical site called Fort Vancouver. For several years into my pre-teen and early teen years, I’d head to her place where we’d light off our own fireworks on the 3rd, and head to Fort Vancouver for the big show on the 4th.

red and blue 4th of July Breakfast Pancakes on plate with whipped cream and sprinkles and star-shaped cookie cutters near plate

Recent 4th of July Memories

My hubby and I have enjoyed the holiday in various ways over the years. In our early years we’d spend time on our friend’s boats watching the fireworks in downtown Portland from the water. Other years included a 4th of July breakfast with tasty pancakes that we enjoyed along with the 4th of July parade in a sweet little town next to ours. Our little town also had a great firework show that we enjoyed attending.

Since living in Arizona in recent years, we’ve enjoyed 4th of July in our cozy neighborhood that goes all out for the holiday. Our neighbors congregate outside to light off everything from sparklers to the “big guns” for everyone to enjoy.

With 4th of July approaching this year, I wanted to come up with something new that would capture some of these precious memories. These tasty little pancakes remind me of the holiday as a kid and the 4th of July pancake breakfast I enjoyed with my husband.

What are your favorite 4th of July memories? Let me know in the comments and come with me as I show you why they’re great and how to make them.

Why You’ll Love these 4th of July Breakfast Pancakes

  • They’re incredibly patriotic, all decked out in red, white, and blue.
  • They’ll be a hit with the kiddos (or adults that are still half kid, just like me).
  • You’ll love how easy they are to make.
  • You can use any plain, white pancake mix you have on hand.
  • The whipped cream and sprinkles add to their festive flair.
close up of red and blue 4th of July breakfast pancakes on white plate with sprinkles

What’s in These Patriotic Pancakes?

  • Pancake Batter

    I use Bob’s Redmill gluten free pancake mix, but you can use your favorite pancake mix or whatever you have on hand as long as it makes a white or light-colored batter. The pancake mix also calls for eggs, milk and butter. I’ve made it dairy free as well with almond milk and non-dairy butter spread and it’s quite tasty.

 

  • Food Coloring

    For dying the pancake batter. You’ll dye half of the batter red and the other half blue. I use gel food coloring.

 

  • Cooking Spray

    Whatever cooking spray you have on hand will work fine.

 

  • Whipped Cream

    In keeping this recipe easy, I use whipped cream from a spray can. Plus, it looks pretty too! I found an almond milk spray whipped cream, which is great for my dairy free friends.

 

  • Sprinkles

    Some stores sell patriotic sprinkles this time of year, but any red, white, and/or blue sprinkles that you like will work.

How to make the 4th of July Breakfast Pancakes

1. Prepare your pancake batter per your mix’s instructions

2. Divide the pancake batter into two separate bowls.

3. Slowly add blue food coloring to half of the batter and red to the other half until the batter reaches your desired shade of blue and red.

4. Heat a griddle to 350 degrees, or skillet to medium heat.

5. Spray the inside of at least 2 large and 2 small star-shaped metal cookie cutters with cooking spray.

6. Place the cookie cutters on the griddle or skillet.

4th of July breakfast pancake instructions - make batter & add coloring, spray cookie cutters, add cutters to griddle, make pancakes

7. Add the batter to the inside of the cookie cutters. *** Make an even amount of red and blue, small, and large stars.

8. Cook the first side until the batter begins to bubble (usually 2-3 minutes, depending on your pancake mix).

9. Using an oven mitt, slowly remove the cookie cutters from the stars. If the pancakes stick to the inside of the cookie cutters when you pick them up, flip them over and gently push the star through the cutter and onto the griddle or skillet with a knife.

10. Cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.

11. Stack the pancakes in twos with a larger star on bottom and a smaller star, in a different color on top.

12. Garnish with a little whipped cream and sprinkles.

13. Serve and enjoy!

red and blue star pancake on white plate with whipped cream and sprinkles

Making Ahead, Storing and Reheating Leftover Pancakes

Making 4th of July Pancakes Ahead of Time

The pancakes can be made ahead of time. Make sure to consume them within three days.

Storing Leftover Pancakes

Leftover pancakes can be stored in the fridge for three days or the freezer for three months. I store them in double zip lock bags in the freezer to help prevent freezer burn. Make sure to remove all the air from the baggies.

Reheating Leftover Pancakes

The best way to reheat the pancakes from the fridge or freezer is in the toaster.

Thank you for checking out these 4th of July Breakfast Pancakes! Let me know how yours turn out in the comments below!

red and blue 4th of July breakfast pancake on white plate with whipped cream and sprinkles
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red and blue pancakes on white plate with whipped cream and sprinkle with star-shaped cookie cutters next to plate

Easy Patriotic Pancakes for 4th of July Breakfast

4th of July breakfast will be a hit this year with these easy red, white, and blue festive patriotic pancakes!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Large and Small Metal Star-Shaped Cookie Cutters
  • Oven Mitt
  • Griddle of Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • Pancake Batter Use plain white pancake mix + required add-in ingredients ***I use Bob’s Redmill Gluten Free Pancake Mix, which requires egg, milk and butter. I’ve made it dairy free as well with almond milk and non-dairy butter spread and it’s great.
  • Red & Blue Food Coloring
  • Cooking Spray
  • Whipped Cream use almond whipped cream for dairy free
  • Sprinkles You can often find patriotic sprinkles this year, but any red, white, and/or blue sprinkles work

Instructions
 

  • Prepare your pancake batter per your mix’s instructions.
  • Divide the pancake batter into two separate bowls.
  • Slowly add blue food coloring to half of the batter and red to the other half until the batter reaches your desired shade of blue and red.
  • Heat a griddle to 350 degrees, or skillet to medium heat.
  • Spray the inside of at least 2 large and 2 small star-shaped metal cookie cutters with cooking spray.
  • Place the cookie cutters on the griddle or skillet.
  • Add the batter to the inside of the cookie cutters. *** Make an even amount of red and blue, small, and large stars.
  • Cook the first side until the batter begins to bubble (usually 2-3 minutes, depending on your pancake mix).
  •  Using an oven mitt, slowly remove the cookie cutters from the stars. If the pancakes stick to the inside of the cookie cutters when you pick them up, flip them over and gently push the star through the cutter and onto the griddle or skillet with a knife.
  • Cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Stack the pancakes in twos with a larger star on bottom and a smaller star, in a different color on top.
  •  Garnish with a little whipped cream and sprinkles.
  • Serve and enjoy!
Keyword 4th of July, 4th of July Breakfast, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Independence Day, Pancakes, Patriotic

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How to Make a Festive and Fantastic 4th of July Tiered-Tray

How to Make a Festive and Fantastic 4th of July Tiered-Tray

by | Jun 12, 2023 | At Home, Holidays/Occasions, Independence Day (American), Summer

This 4th of July Tiered Tray radiates festive patriotism with its colorful decorations that remind us why we love celebrating this great holiday.

Patriotic 4th of July Tiered Tray - white tiered tray with red, white, blue and flag patterned decorations on kitchen counter

It’s that time of year again for everything patriotic and I had a lot of fun putting together this little 4th of July Tiered Tray.

I’m a person who loves both the comfort of traditions that bring back warm memories, and the excitement of creating something new in anticipation of joyous things to come. Holidays (like 4th of July) and changing seasons offer opportunities for both.

In my home, decorating for the season or holiday creates visual reminders of good times past. It also freshens up a space with decorations we unbox just once a year and sometimes even a new decoration or two. Half the fun of a holiday, after all, is the time we spend looking forward to it.

Now if you don’t have a tiered tray as a decorative piece in your home, I highly recommend at least one. They add a lot of charm to your space, and you can find items to decorate it with for any season or your favorite holidays.

There are endless ways to arrange a tiered tray for a holiday or season. Come with me and I’ll show you how I put mine together, and I hope you find inspiration for decorating your own tiered tray!

Why You’ll Love a Patriotic Tiered Tray

  • It’s enjoyable to style and put together.
  • You can add your own creative touch.
  • The items on the tray can be changed seasonally.
  • There are many places you can put a 4th of July tiered tray.
white 4th of July tiered tray with red, white, blue and flag patterned decorations

What Should I Put on a 4th of July Tiered Tray?

There are many decorations you can put on your tray but let me give you some ideas based on my display and what I’ve seen available.

*** Consider how much space you have on each tier of the tray. You can measure the space before you shop for items. Some tags will tell you the dimensions of a decorative piece or if you purchase items online, look for dimensions in the description.

Miniature Signs

These have become very popular over the last several years. Find signs that resonate with you or match the holiday in a fun way.

Examples used on my tray include:

        • Wooden framed “Fireworks Stand Open Daily” sign
        • Blue star-shaped “God Bless America” sign
        • Blue “Home of the Brave” sign or ornament

Small Containers

There are many options out there for little containers like mini vases, pitchers, boxes, buckets, candleholders and more.

Examples used on my tray include:

        • Red beaded mini glass vase
        • Blue beaded mini glass vase
        • White mini porcelain pitcher

Craft Stems and Mini Plants

Craft stems are meant to represent small branches from plants and flowers and come in many sizes and colors. If you find large craft stems that you like, they are often easy to divide into smaller pieces by pulling off flowers/berries or using wire cutters to cut off smaller stems. Mini faux potted plants are another fun option for a tiered tray.

Examples used on my tray include:

        • White berries
        • Red sparkly berries with metal stars
        • Blue sparkly berries with metal stars
        • Red hydrangea flowers
tiered tray items - mini signs, craft stems, red curly ribbon, vases, mini cake stand, tinsel balls, mini pitcher, little rolling pin, red flowers, flag pin wheel

Ribbon

Using ribbon is an easy way to add color and texture to the design. It’s also great for filling empty space on the tray.

Examples used on my tray include:

        • Red metallic curly ribbon
        • Red deco mesh ribbon

Lights

Miniature lights really add to the charm of a tiered tray. White lights can be reused in every season, but stores often carry lights in colors that represent the represent the current holiday, including red, white and blue.

Example used on my tray includes:

        • Mini white “fairy” lights

Figurines

Although I didn’t use figurines on this tray, I often see them at craft stores. Little animals sporting American flags and gnomes wearing patriotic hats and just a couple examples of what’s available. I see these mostly at craft stores.

Other Miniature Items

There are endless other random little items available. Ornaments work well leaned up against vases or other containers. I noticed mini shiny stars, fireworks and flags while shopping at craft stores.

Examples used on my tray include:

        • Mini patriotic rolling pins
        • Tiny firework stand
        • Little pin wheels with stars and stripes
        • Mini bunting garland
        • Tinsel poofs in red, white and blue
        • Mini cake stand (or cupcake stand)

How to Choose Items for the Tiered Tray

As you can see from my long list of decoration ideas, there are a lot of items to choose from when making a tiered tray.  Here’s a couple of things to consider when choosing items:

    • Bring Home Several Items

One thing I often do when decorating a space is temporarily purchase more items than I need and return what I don’t end up using. This is a great tactic for the tiered tray as it gives you options when putting it all together.

    top tier of 4th of July tiered tray with miniature signs, red ribbon, tinsel balls, mini flag rolling pin and lights
      • Choose a Mixture of Colors and Patterns

    Red, white, and blue fit this holiday, of course, so I brought home items in these colors as well as flag patterned items. The mix adds visual interest to the whole design.

     

      • Choose Nostalgic Items

    Pick items that bring to mind fun 4th of July memories from childhood or beyond. On my tray, the mini wooden firework stand is reminiscent of the fireworks stands I grew up with, for example.

     

      • Choose Items that Bring you Joy!

    There are so many adorable miniature decorations available, so pick items that make you smile. On my tray I love the how the balls of tinsel at the top look like little fireworks. The glowing fairy lights are so charming and how cute is that miniature rolling pin?!

    Where Can I Find Items for My Patriotic Tiered Tray?

    Craft Store

    A craft store is my favorite place to find items for this fun decorative piece. I often find myself loving these cute little miniature items that I never had a place for before investing in a tiered tray. Many have good sales on seasonal items or have coupons available on their apps.

    Home Store

    Home stores are another great place to find items for your tiered tray and they have great seasonal selections.

    Dollar or Discount Store

    These stores are perfect for for finding items that are extra budget friendly.

    list of places to get tiered tray decor - craft store, home store, discount store, big box store, online retailer

    Big Box Store

    Large stores that offer one-stop shopping also carry seasonal décor, which is convenient if you have other things on your list to buy while you’re out.

    Online Retailer

    Look up “tiered tray décor” on your favorite search engine and you’ll find several options. Some offer a pre-selected collection of items, which is a great way to save time and they’ll often very budget friendly.

    How to Arrange a 4th of July Tiered Tray

    Let’s look at some tips for arranging this decorative piece.

    Tip 1: Decorate Single Sections

    If you look at the image of the tray below, it’s made up of several smaller decorations. You can really divide it into 7 sections. There’s a topper and then three sections on the upper level and three on the lower. I start by playing around with each “section.” You see that I added a little rolling pin, some flowers and a pin wheel to the little white pitcher, for instance. I also threw the blue “God Bless America” star on top of the mini cake stand, as another example. I do this before arranging them on the tray.

    white tiered tray with red, white, blue and flag patterned decorations divided into 7 sections

    Tip 2: Spread Out the Color

    The tray contains items that are mostly red, white, and blue to match the holiday, with a little wood color in there. If you take a closer look, you’ll notice that I’ve spread the color throughout the tray to visual interest.

    Tip 3: Spread Out the Pattern

    Several items on the tray have stars and stripes, including one of the mini rolling pins, the pin wheels and the bunting garland. Notice spreading them out (up, down, left, right) provides a little balance to the tray.

    Tip 4: Use Space Fillers

    On the top of the tray, I used red curly ribbon as space fillers by tying them around the vase and little cake stand. The three sections on the top on the bottom tier are about the same size, but since there is more space on the bottom tier, there is space to fill between the items. To fill the space, I lined the base with deco mesh ribbon and added faux berries in between the main decorations.

    Tip 5: Play Around with it and Have Fun!

    I spent a little time working on this tiered tray, moving things around and trying things out in different ways. To me it’s like a fun little puzzle, moving pieces around until they fit. Ultimately what’s important is that you like it because you’ll be the one looking at it each day!

    Well I hope you found inspiration for making your own 4th of July Tiered Tray! Let me know what you’ll put on your tray in the comments below!

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    12 Things to do for Father’s Day Weekend that Dad will Love!

    12 Things to do for Father’s Day Weekend that Dad will Love!

    by | Jun 5, 2023 | Adventures, At Home, Father's Day, Holidays/Occasions

    If you’re searching for things to do for Father’s Day, look no further than these 12 awesome ways to celebrate with the fantastic father in your life.

    12 Best Things to do for Father's Day - adult looking out train window - child throwing football to dad, dad holding child, five glasses with beer tastings, hands holding fishing pole

    Best things to do for Father’s Day

    1. Attend a Concert

    If the dad in your life is a music lover, consider going to a concert. Check with local venues or ticket service providers for performances that he’ll enjoy. Another option is checking with your city for a concert-in-the-park series, which often takes place when the weather warms. You’ll find great cover bands at these events, and they’re often free.

     

    2. Go Camping

    Is Dad the outdoorsy type? Head out for a good old fashioned family camping trip. Pitch a tent, prepare the fire, and tell ghost stories. Check out nearby hiking trails for some fresh air and exercise. Hopefully you’ll work up an appetite so you can cook up some dinner over the campfire. Don’t forget the s’mores!

    concert - hands playing guitar - camping - view of lake from tent - science museum - adult looking at starry display

    3. Check out the Science Museum

    If Dad loves to learn about the world, how things work, or why things are the way they are, consider taking him to a science center. It’s a great place for adults or families with children, as there’s usually something for everyone. Many centers have planetariums, offering entertaining shows about space or the night sky. Some museum exhibits change, so check your location’s website for current displays.

    4. Take a Train Ride

    Head out for a train ride on Father’s Day. Some offer scenic views and you may see interesting wildlife along the way. Dinner trains are an enjoyable option and often offer special Father’s Day menus.   Other trains have live entertainment like music or even the occasional train robbery to add to the excitement.

    5. Play some Golf

    If Dad loves golf, hit up his favorite local course or splurge for that special course he’s always wanted to play. Surprise Dad with a tee time with other fathers he enjoys playing with and make him his favorite dinner when he returns. Another option is playing with the family if everyone is old enough and enjoys the game. If you’re empty nesters and the kids are away, make it a date. If If you and the family don’t play, many courses allow a rider to go along and watch. Many courses are incredibly beautiful and watching is a lot of fun!

    train ride - people seating inside of historic train, golf - person holding golf clubs - dinner show - microphone with blurred audience in background

    6. Check out a Dinner Theater

    Check out a dinner theater if you can’t decide what to do for Father’s Day. Murder mystery dinners are a blast and keep you on your toes as you attempt to solve the mystery of who the murderer is. Medieval Times is another fun dinner show and something the kids will appreciate. Their dinner show engages the audience with battling knights while you partake in their tasty dinner feast.  Comedy shows are also a great option for the dad that loves a good laugh. Some shows invite the audience members to participate, which is perfect for the dad that’s a ham and would love to be on stage.

    7. Attend a Sporting Event or Watch a Game from Home

    There are several sports games going on this time of year. If Dad’s favorite baseball team is playing in town Father’s Day weekend, for instance, surprising him with tickets to a game and a new jersey to wear is a great option. Maybe golf is his thing. Round up the family, prepare his favorite snacks and watch the U.S. Open, which usually occurs Father’s Day weekend. How about soccer (or football, as it’s called outside of the U.S.)? It’s another great sport with games often played on this fine holiday celebrating dear old dad.

    8. Go Beer, Wine, or Sprit Tasting

    Does Dad prefer a pint of ale or a glass of red wine? Is he a whisky connoisseur or does he appreciate a fine tequila? Whatever Dad’s beverage preference, breweries, wineries, and distilleries offer samples in tasting rooms or restaurants. It’s a great way to find new favorites and add to his collection. Also, some locations have tours showing you how and where their products are made, offering an enjoyable way to spend his Father’s Day afternoon. Take home Dad’s new favorite to enjoy with Father’s Day dinner!

    Sports game - baseball stadium filled with players and fans, beverage tasting - several small glasses of different beers, lake or river - bot on lake with tree-lined shore

    9. Enjoy a Day at the Lake or River

    Spend some time with Dad at the lake or river this Father’s Day. There’s so much to do on the water. Maybe he’d enjoy trying his hand at kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. Jet Skis or WaveRunners are a blast for a dad that likes a little excitement. Grab the fishing poles and rent a row or motorboat for a more laid-back vibe.

    10. Treat Dad to a Sport’s Lesson

    Does Dad like to play a sport? Support him in improving his game by treating him to some lessons. Perhaps he loves golf or tennis, for example. Send him off with a new club or racket he’s been eyeing or wrap up some new sports apparel for him to open when he gets home.

    11. Engage in Some Friendly Competition

    Is the dad in your life the type of guy who loves a little competition? Why not set up the cornhole board, or head to the pool hall with the family? Maybe he likes to bowl or is a mini golf aficionado who would enjoy a nearby fun center. You could also grab Dad a dart board or ping pong table for the game room or man cave. Another option is taking the family to the local park for a game of football or softball.  How about cards or a board game? There are endless ways to engage in a little competition. What type of friendly competition would your Dad like best? Let me know in the comments below!

    Sports lesson - tennis racket and ball, friendly competition - hands holding playing cards, meet virtually, person looking at computer

    12. Get Together with Dad Virtually

    If you don’t live near Dad or are unable to visit, meet with Dad on Facetime or Zoom. Consider playing games virtually or eating “together.” If Dad is unable to get out much, Facetiming him from a fun location will make his day.

     

    Thank you for peeking at the best things to do for Father’s Day! Let me know what you’re doing with Dad this year in the comments below!

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    Patriotic Table Decor for Memorial Day or Fourth of July

    Patriotic Table Decor for Memorial Day or Fourth of July

    by | May 22, 2023 | At Home, Holidays/Occasions, Independence Day (American), Memorial Day, Spring, Summer

    This patriotic table decor is perfect for your Memorial Day and Fourth of July party or gathering with friends and loved ones. It’s easy on the pocketbook too!

    Patriotic Table Decor for Memorial Day and 4th of July - Blue star plate with red and blue star napkin, silver bowl, red cup and silverware as place setting, red vase with white flowers and flags

    With springtime coming to a close and summer drawing near, we’ve got two American holidays on the horizon that bring out our patriotic side. Memorial Day, a day to remember fallen soldiers, and Independence Day, America’s birthday, are time for celebration in the USA.

    This year, we’re inviting the family over for a good old fashioned backyard BBQ. If you’ve known me long enough, you know how festive I am, and these holidays are no exception!

    For our family BBQ, I wanted to come up with budget-friendly patriotic table decor. So, I went over to the Dollar Tree and found just what I was looking for. I found most items in their seasonal section and a few other things around the store.

    Come with me and I’ll show you what I found and why you’ll love it!

    Why you’ll love this Patriotic Table Decor

    • It’s quick and easy to put together.
    • The red, white, and blue colors and patterns are fun and festive.
    • This tablescape is great for both Memorial Day and 4th of July.
    • Everything was purchased from the Dollar Tree making it very budget friendly.

    What You’ll Need for Your Festive Tablescape

    blue star plate with red and blue star napkins and red cup as place setting - blue and red starred tray with red star plates, blue ribbon and more napkins in center of table

    • White Plates:

      This is the only part of the tablescape that I did not purchase. I used my everyday white plates that have a beaded edge. They work well as a base or backdrop to the star plates that we’ll talk about in a minute.

     

      • Other options: Dollar Tree has several options including Silver chargers (found near seasonal plates up front), white paper plates (found in the party section), or red, white, or blue ceramic plates (found the kitchenware area).

     

    • Silverware (Forks, Knives and Spoons):

      I used plastic silverware from the Dollar Tree. They hold up well, so I’ll often wash and reuse them.

     

      • Other options: Of course, your everyday silverware works great too. The Dollar Tree also has red, white, blue, and clear plastic silverware.

     

    • Red and Blue Metallic Star Shaped Plates:

       I found these in the seasonal patriotic section of the store. Each package comes with 8 plates (so 16 plates if you purchase both colors). I set my table for 4 and used 4 red and 4 blue plates.

     

      • Other options: The star plates are adorable, but if you can’t find them, they do have other plate options, like solid red and blue and other patriotic patterns.

     

    • Red Cups:

       These were also found in the seasonal section. They say “America the Beautiful” on them, surrounded by silver stars.

     

      • Other options: Dollar Tree also has blue and red patterned cups in the seasonal section with various patriotic patterns and verbiage.
    red and blue star plates, red and blue starred tray and napkins, silver bowls, blue ribbon, red vase, flag wands, white flowers, red cup, white plate, silverware

    • Small Silver Bowls:

      These come in sets of four and are found in the party section.

     

    • Large Silver Bowl: 

      This is found next to the small silver bowls and is sold individually.

     

    • Star Patterned Napkins:

      These are also found in the seasonal section and have red, white, and blue stars on them.

     

      • Other options: There were a few other options like solid red and blue and one with a flag pattern.

     

    • Star Patterned Tray:

      This is the main base of the centerpiece. It’s also a red, white, and blue star pattern and matches the napkins.

     

    • Blue Ribbons:

      These are found in the gift-wrapping section and are also a part of the main centerpiece. They come in three packs, and you’ll only need one pack.

     

    • Metallic Red Gift Containers: 

      These were found on a shelf with other small gift boxes in the gift-wrapping section. I used two for the centerpiece as vases and one of the lids to hold extra napkins.

     

    • White Flowers: 

      I used faux, white carnations. I only needed two bouquets for the tablescape.

     

      • Other options: There were some other white and red flower options. White flowers contrast nicely with the red gift container they sit in.

    • Flags: 

      The foam flag wands are found in the seasonal patriotic section.

     

      • Other options: They also have small traditional flags and other foam wands, including heart and star shaped wands with the flag pattern on them.

        Putting Together the Patriotic Table Decor

        For the Place Settings

        To start, I set the table for four people. For the place settings, I’m using the regular white everyday plates, red and blue star plates, star patterned napkins, small silver bowls, silverware and the red cups.

         

        blue and red star plates with red and blue star napkins, silver bowl, silverware, and red cup as place setting

        I used the white plates as the base, then stacked a blue or red star plate on top. I folded napkins in half to create a triangle and placed them centered on top of the star plates.

         Next, I added the small silver bowls on top. Then I placed the silverware on each side, and the cup to the upper right side of the plate.

         *** I alternated using red or blue star plates for each place setting.

        For the Centerpiece

        After the place settings were done, I started on the middle part of the centerpiece. I used the star patterned tray, the red star plates, the large silver bowl, one of the red lids from the red cylindrical gift boxes, the blue curly ribbons and the remainder of the star patterned napkins.

         

        red and blue starred tray with red star plates, silver bowl with blue ribbon and red and blue starred napkins as centerpiece

        I used the tray as the base. Then I added two red star plates on top of the tray and placed the large silver bowl centered on top. Next, I placed one of the lids to the red gift containers upside down in the middle of the large silver bowl.

        Next, I added the three blue curly ribbons to the silver bowl, surrounding the red lid evenly. Lastly, for the main part of the centerpiece, I rolled up the remainder of the napkins and placed them in the middle gift box lid.

        Lastly, for the two outer parts of the centerpiece, I used blue star plates, the two red, metallic gift boxes (without lids), the white flowers and the foam flag wands.

         

        red vase on top of blue star plate with white flowers and two American flags as part of centerpiece

        I used blue star plates as the base, placing one on each side of the star patterned tray. I then placed the red gift boxes (without lids) centered on top of the star plates.

        Finally, I added the white flowers to the red gift boxes, using them as vases. To finish up, I placed two flag wands in each red “vase,” so they are jutting out above the flowers.

         

        blue star plate with red and blue star napkins and red cup as place setting - blue and red starred tray with red star plates, blue ribbon and more napkins in center of table, red vase with flowers and flags

        Thank you for taking the time to check out this patriotic table decor! I hope you enjoyed it. Let me know what you think in the comments below.

         

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