Published on May 25, 2018 | Last Updated on May 25, 2018

I’ve never met a theme I didn’t like especially when it comes to summer entertaining! With Memorial Day this weekend, you might be tempted to decorate with traditional flag decor but I challenge you to think outside the box a little bit! Pattern mixing adds interest to the table and definitely doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve included a few tips below to take the guess work out of it!

TIPS FOR PATRIOTIC TABLE PATTERN MIXING

• Stick to a color scheme. I love choosing two or three colors and mixing patterns within those colors. For holidays like Memorial Day and July 4th, use red, white and blue but instead of flags or stripes add in gingham and other fun patterns!

• Add in layers. I love the texture the jute placemat adds here and instead of putting the blue plates directly on the placemat, I added a slightly larger white plate between the two. It helps make the patterned plate stand out!

• Buy disposable utensils, napkins and inexpensive pieces from places like Home Goods or Tuesday Morning. For summer hosting I like to stick to things I can throw away for easy clean up. I picked up these gingham napkins and gold plastic utensils for a few dollars. Inexpensive items like this allow you to mix and match patterns without committing too much!