Jump In to Our July 4th Pool Party

“When Independence Day arrives and the weather is hot, there’s no better place to enjoy the spoils of summer than by the pool,” says Katie, who started the party off right in our Citrus Lily Love Circle Dress.

“No need to worry with a bunch of fussy decorations,” says Katie. “Let the pool be the star. Combine brightly-colored summer fun with the traditional red, white, and blue 4th of July decor.”

Katie suggests working in the red, white, and blue by displaying food outside on a blue-and-white gingham tablecloth, hanging paper lanterns under bright umbrellas, and sticking handfuls of American flags in potted plants.

Encourage guests to go for a swim by leaving fresh towels out by the pool.

Is there anything more beckoning than a flamingo pool float?

Burgers and dogs on the grill are tempting (and certainly won’t disappoint!), but it’s also fun to go for a more sophisticated (but not fussy) menu. Katie had guests join in the fun by inviting them to make D.I.Y pizzas baked in an outdoor pizza oven. The tomato, mozzarella, and arugula pizzas with prosciutto and balsamic glaze were irresistible.

Katie served the homemade pizzas alongside mini Caesar salads topped with homemade Parmesan crackers.

“Use bandanas for napkins, and blue-and-white enamel plates for break-free (and totally festive) service ware,” Katie says.

Come and get it, indeed! Our Draper James serving platter speaks the truth.

“Make a big batch of fresh lemonade for the group and cucumber watermelon margaritas for the adults, and serve everything up in mason jars,” suggests Katie, seen here wearing our Parton Check Short Sleeve Sweater.

Cucumber watermelon margaritas were a huge hit with the over-21 crowd. Find the recipe here.

Katie surprised guests mid-party with a gelato cart from Nashville’s own Legato Gelato. Here, Terri-Ann Nicholls, owner/maker/founder of Legato Gelato rides in wearing our Darlin’ Daisy Love Circle Dress.

The irresistible gelato selection included something for everyone, from mango and strawberry sorbetto to dark chocolate and Madagascar bourbon vanilla gelato.

Nothing says summer like our Overlook handbag.

Katie, seen here with daughter Emmaline, dressed for a dip in the pool in our Riviera Romper.

“When dusk arrives,” suggests Katie, “set out vintage enamel buckets filled with sand and sparklers, plus bubbles for kids who are too young for fireworks. They make great party favors, too.”