It's safe to say that summer is officially upon us. There's so much to look forward to like sun, swimming, and spending time with the ones we love. Before we know it Independence Day will be here and you know what that means: finding ways to throw the best summer bash ever! To make yours top the charts, we did some scouring on your behalf. Keep reading for the best recipes, games, and fashions to keep your party fresh.

Festive Fruit

• Berry Kabobs
  
  

These lil' guys are adorable and such a great way to make healthy snacks fun. Since the kiddos will most likely be munching on these, make sure the skewers you use don't have pointy ends. Anna Julien has great tips on how to perfect them.

• Coconut Water & Fruit Popsicles
  
  

What a great idea: take a trend like coconut water and make it an easy-to-enjoy summer treat. We suggest adding warmed agave nectar to the coconut water before pouring it into the moulds since the freezing will mute the sweetness of the berries.

Yummy Dishes

• Blueberry Caprese Salad

Check out those beautiful colors!

• Balsamic Glazed Steak Rolls

Our gal Noreen has great step-by-step directions for these bad boys. The presentation is gorgeous and so unique.

• Beer Cheese & Chicken Sliders

Just look at that gooey cheese! The recipe for this is easier than you'd think AND it involves using your slow-cooker which means you get some hands-off time.

Backyard games

• Jumbo Jenga

If your guy is handy with a skill-saw, or you've go the mad skills yourself, this project is easy to knock out in an afternoon. Just make sure to sand the edges to avoid splinters. This is a great investment since you can use it for all your backyard parties for years to come!

•  Squirt Gun Station

Image from firsthomelovelife.com

Yeah, it's as much fun as it sounds! Just imagine everyone getting in on the fun and sneak-attacking each other throughout the party. Just pick up some cheap squirt guns at the dollar store and keep them in the tub for easy refilling. It'll keep everyone cool and on their toes.

Independent Fashion: 

Keep yourself stylish and chill during the balmy evening with these firework-worthy looks. Click the photos for more inspiration!

• Racerback Bow Tank

Pair this spangled tank with white linen shorts and beachy wedges for the ultimate in summer comfort. 

• Harts & Pearls Freedom Collection!

Newly launched, we are proud to give you a wide variety of summer looks perfect for 4th of July. We even have an awesome new style up our sleeve for the men in your life. Check it out!

•  Misha - Paisley Bell Sleeve Dress

Style this free-flowing swing dress with metallic gladiator sandals and a floppy hat to stay cool all night long.

 

We wish you the best in your celebrations and hope this week's blog helps inspire you to try something new this year!