Twins Take on the Holiday: Fourth of July

Happy Birthday, America!  The Fourth of July is always a fun and festive holiday.  We love to have a keep it casual and relaxed for the Fourth, in keeping with the summer vibe.  Ry often hosts a BBQ with friends and family.  Here are our tips and tricks for keeping it simple and fun for the 4th!

• Think Americana: It is America's Day after all, so keep your decor red, white and blue.  You can pick up themed decor items at craft supply stores like JoAnn Fabrics or (our favorite place) Target.  In fact, the Target Dollar Spot has a great selection of decor items RIGHT NOW, so head over there.  Just look at all this cuteness!  Don't forget paper plates and cups to save yourself from doing the dishes.  And if you can, grab some sparklers--they're so festive!

• Grill baby, grill!: Since the best 4th of July parties take place outside, the grill makes a perfect cooking utensil.  Think about classic cookout foods, like hot dogs, bratwurst or sausage and burgers.  This is pretty simple, you grill, add a bun and then serve!  You can go classic with toppings (ketchup, mustard, relish) or jazz it up a little with some fancy condiments like Sriracha or guacamole.  

• Everyone Loves a Signature Drink: As we suggested with our At Home Happy Hour tips, a signature drink is always a key to a great party.  Your guests feel special and you don't have to run around mixing up drinks.  Here are a couple of cocktails we are thinking of trying this year:
• Blackberry Lemonade Margaritas
• Strawberry Rose' Sangria
• Spicy Pomegranate Margaritas
• Skinny Grapefruit Moscow Mules
• Sparkling Red, White and Blue Sangria

• Keep Dessert on Trend: Pinterest has no shortage of red, white and blue patriotic desserts.  At a BBQ, people are often looking for something easy to eat while standing up.  Cookies, rice Krispie Treats or popsicles/ice cream sandwiches are awesome.  Here are a few faves that we may be serving this year:
• Churro Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Fourth of July IceBox Swirl Cookies
• Brownie Dessert Pizza
• Triple Berry Trifle
• Star Rice Krispie Treats

Jess is usually on dessert at our parties and has attempted many over the years.  Just look at last year's Americana red velvet cake!

Apparently, with 37 "stars", Jess actually created a 1867-1877 American flag.

• Don't Forget Your Younger Guests:  Ryan is the queen of making sure that her guests feel at home, down to the littlest kiddo.  She always has sidewalk chalk or outdoor games for the kiddos to play.  This keeps them entertained AND allows their parents to chill with a cocktail.  Win, win!

Follow these simple tips and have an awesome Fourth of July this year!  Are you planning on hosting a party next week?  Tell us your keys to a successful Fourth of July party in the comments below!