It's easy to decorate for the Fourth of July: use the colors red, white, and blue. Stars and stripes are fun too. Cover your table with a classic, all-American navy checkered tablecloth. Serve the food on oversize platters and in large bowls. If you have a big crowd, don't be afraid to use paper plates and festive paper napkins. Display the dessert in a clear trifle bowl and the watermelon cooler in a pretty pitcher. Hang lights from the trees and fill a vase with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. When guests arrive, give each one a small American flag.
How are you celebrating the country's independence?
When it comes to Summer drinks, I love to use watermelon. The juicy fruit is 92 percent water — meaning it's pretty easy to puree, strain, and drink. It tastes wonderful on its own, fresh from the blender, or works well in a cocktail. 
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The Fourth of July falls on a Sunday this year, and that means there's no excuse not to throw a party! Gather up a group of friends, light the barbecue, and prepare a delicious feast of eats. Start things off with two finger food favorites: lemon-herb grilled shrimp and grilled jalapeño poppers. Since no one can ever decide between chicken or ribs, please everyone and offer barbecued ribs and chicken with a tangy homemade sauce as the main course. Corn on the cob with parmesan butter and tomato and feta salad are two easy, but scrumptious side dishes. 