Fourth of July in our area lends two paths – lake time or rodeos paired with parades. Most of my Fourth of July celebrations have been spent on the back of a horse in a rodeo arena carrying an American flag or waving to fans in the parade but I’m happy to report that this year will be much cooler for our family – AT THE LAKE!
To kick off this Fourth of July pre-week I wanted to share a few patriotic ideas to incorporate a little vintage into your 4th of July festivities!
Vintage Tablecloths
Interestingly enough I only allow myself to collect vintage tablecloths that are red, white, and blue (and vintage Christmas tablecloths too). Vintage tablecloths have the cutest patterns and the most charming colors. They are fun to mix and match and create an eye-catching backdrop to any Fourth of July table or buffet. My favorite tablecloths have sweet cherries or strawberries strewn throughout.
This year I used an old vintage tablecloth that was very badly stained and cut up the better portions to create linen napkins. Such an easy repurpose for a vintage tablecloth! Vintage table cloths are easy to find and typically range in cost from $8 to $25 for sought after patterns.
Milk Glass
For my place settings, I incorporated new and old. I used inexpensive plastic star plates paired with vintage milk glass and transferware. The mix of old and new are always the perfect marriage. Milk glass is such a wonderful, affordable vintage glassware to hunt for because there are so many amazing milk glass pieces. I love to incorporate milk glass shakers for serving and small milk glass custard dishes for toppings. Milk glass dishes are a great dessert option as well because EVERY dessert looks delicious on them.
Galvanized Tin
This year I incorporated several galvanized tin features into my table. I used a vintage galvanized bucket for these gorgeous faux geraniums (find them here). They add the perfect rustic ambiance for faux or real flowers. I also used tin within our servingware too. One of our favorite traditions is to drink glass bottles of Coca Cola on the Fourth. A cold soda pop from a glass bottle is the absolute best! I filled an old galvanized washtub with a layer of ice to keep our Coca Cola icy cold. I also love to use this vintage inspire galvanized tiered tray for utensils, small plates, extra napkins, and toppings.
Soda Pop Crates
The chippy look of a vintage soda crate just screams Americana and there are so many uses for them too. One of my favorite ways to use soda crates is to create different levels on a buffet station. The graphics are stellar and they can elevate different dishes creating a picture perfect patriotic table.
Another great use for soda crates is to cart items from the kitchen to the grill. They are a wonderful carryall for condiments, silverware, serving ware, straws, you name it! Vintage soda crates come in all varieties and colors and they can range in cost from $10-$30.
Vintage Tins
Another great vintage item to incorporate into your Fourth of July tablescape is vintage tins. My favorite tins for patriotic parties are ones with bright colors of red or blue. Many antique tobacco tins have presidential graphics and make the cutest centerpieces. Use them for florals, utensils or just as a display element on a buffet.
I hope this gave you a few easy ways to incorporate some vintage into your Fourth of July celebrations this year! I can’t believe our sweet country is turning 246 years old this year! To see more festive Fourth of July table ideas please go visit my friend Robyn at her blog Robyn’s French Nest to create a simple patriotic centerpiece and my friend Cynthia at Vintage Grace and Living where she will be sharing a quick and easy patriotic outdoor dining space!
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- Robyn’s French Nest
To shop these looks click the pictures below!
