how to throw an iconic birthday party for america

I know I know I knoooowwww nobody is thrilled with the political state of America at this point (the left sucks, the right sucks, it all sucks, maybe we should throw a revolution instead???) and that’s a conversation for a different day but I’m still so dang proud to be an AMERICAN! I’m proud of what this country was founded on and I’m here to celebrate her 250th birthday.

Let me set the scene: a hot July (or late June) day that’s not unbearable to the point where you have to hit the lake but juuuust hot enough to where the drinks are sweating and the evening cools off for the perfect over the shoulder sweater moment. Your backyard filled with your closest friends and their families, the faint smell of meat on the grill, laughter, good music, and cold drinks. Everyone gathered around for good conversation, the outfits are screaming vintage americana, and the kids are running around with sparklers. AN ACTUAL DREAM.

the decor

We’re all about setting a vibe, wherever your guests will be needs to be thoughtfully curated. Think American flags (duh), lace, gingham, vintage books, red, white, blue. So much of this can be found at the thrift store (especially if you start looking now). I’m drawing a lot of inspiration from paintings of the founding fathers, the constitution (texture, color, font), Betsy Ross and her flag, old photographs, etc. Throw in a pop of vintage American brands (Coke, Budweiser, etc.), not too in your face but noticeable.

THE MENU

Hear me out… simplicity. I’ve thrown my fair share of dinner parties and while I love a fancy menu, I think for a party like this the simpler and easier the better (unless you have a private chef that can do the cooking for you, then go all out). I’m talking hamburgers, hot dogs, brats — these are all easy to cook, allowing you to be present and actually enjoy your guests, and almost everyone likes them. For your charcuterie, make sure to incorporate strawberries and/or raspberries and blueberries (we love when a theme translates through the food).

Drinks can be fun!! If you actually enjoy Coke or Budweiser, then your decor can double as a menu item. You can also make some fun red, white, and blue mocktails/cocktails. Something as simple as grabbing a clear glass, putting blueberries on the bottom, filling it with ice and sparkling water, and topping it with strawberries can look (and taste) so good! Want to make it alcoholic? Throw in some Bacardi! Pinterest has so many ideas if you’re not sure where to start.

I don’t know why but I really feel like dessert has to at least include some sort of pie… Apple pie? Cherry pie? Blueberry pie? All three?? It’s feeling very American to me.

Sample Menu:

• Coke

• Budweiser

• Dressed Up Water/Sparkling Water

  • lemon

  • blueberries

  • strawberries

  • Rum/Vodka of choice

• Lemonade

• Charcuterie

  • strawberries

  • blueberries

  • an assortment of white cheeses

  • salami

  • your favorite crackers (and/or sourdough?!)

  • dip

  • almonds

• Crudités

  • carrots

  • celery

  • cucumbers

  • peppers

  • ranch dip

• Hamburger Bar

  • lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, tomatoes

  • american and pepper jack cheese

  • mayo, ketchup, mustard

  • buns, wraps

• Assortment of Chips or Fries (whichever you prefer)

• Apple Pie

  • served with vanilla ice cream

• Blueberry Pie

THE DRESS CODE

Honestly, one of my favorite things about a good party! I’m envisioning denim, white lace and/or ruffles, gingham, stripes, red, white, blue, cowboy boots, American flag sweaters, dresses, ALL OF IT! Where western meets east coast grandma by way of little house on the prairie and everything in between! Think Ralph Lauren, Levi’s, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Wrangler, and Little Women all throwing a party together! Iconic. Let your guests put their own style on this dress code but make it clear that dress code is not optional (or only invite those that will participate in a dress code).

THE PLAYLIST

Music can make or break your vibe! You want to have a solid playlist in the background, nothing too overpowering but something that sets the mood. I’ll link my spotify playlist here if you need/want it!

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how we throw an iconic birthday party for America, God bless the USA.

I hope this at the very least inspired you to throw America her own birthday party and if you do, I hope you find this to be a helpful tool! Thanks so much for reading.