We host a brunch every Fourth of July for friends before we head out to the local parade and festivities. My challenge is to come up with a new table setting and menu every year.

I have a glass top table on my back porch. When I have to make it larger, I disguise the add-on table with a cloth. I bought the flag fabric (several yards) for $4.99 at Goodwill.

I layered white enamel plates on red ones I found for $.99.

Tucking silverware into a folded napkin keeps everything you need handy. If you serve buffet style, put the utensil pockets in a basket for easy access.

These festive little party picks look like fireworks. I like them in a cup but you can use them to skewer fruit chunks.

Give each guest their own flag to show their patriotic spirit all day.

When a table cloth has lots of pattern and color you can keep all the accessories neutral or you can pile on the textures and patterns for a stand-out table. For the centerpiece, I pulled out a vintage fire truck and topped it with teddy bears. Just like a home-town parade.