This is the biggest summer Friday of the year — the one right before the 4th of July. What are you planning to enjoy this weekend?
EATING
My go-to is my smash burgers. I’ll also make the grilled broccoli crunch salad — it’s amazing — and a classic panzanella salad. These dishes are fresh, simple, and perfect for a holiday weekend.
DRINKING
Fresh peach gin and tonics are a summer favorite. I’m also thinking about a lemonade “frosé” and maybe an orange crush for variety.
MAKING
Cantaloupe and prosciutto skewers are ideal for easy snacking. For dinner, a brown-butter garden vegetable pasta skillet is a cozy, flavorful option that comes together quickly.
BAKING
Firecracker cupcakes — confetti cake with cream cheese frosting and Pop Rocks — are a total crowd-pleaser. For a non-baked treat, a red, white, and blue party snack mix is festive and fun.
CRAVING
Grilled peaches with lavender honey and whipped ricotta are irresistible right now — sweet, floral, and creamy all at once.
READING
Our July book club pick is Party of Two, a delightful read. If you haven’t joined the book club yet, consider hopping in — it’s a great way to connect over good books. What are you reading this month?
WATCHING
Hamilton on Disney+ is perfect for a watch party. It’s a great way to celebrate and sing along with family or friends.
LISTENING
I’ve been playing a 4th of July weekend playlist to set a festive mood — upbeat, summery tracks to enjoy while cooking, relaxing, or hosting.
WEARING
I love lightweight Rails shirts for summer. They’re breezy and easy to throw on as the evening cools. I’m partial to a rainbow stripe, but metallic shell patterns are cute, too.
LOVING
The Tan Lines candle has been my favorite summer scent this year. I discovered it in Nantucket and it instantly became a seasonal staple.
BUYING
I finally purchased Estelle lavender stemless wine glasses after eyeing them all month. My goal is to collect many colors and display them on white shelves — a simple, colorful kitchen upgrade.
SHARING
I recently shared a step-by-step for a hot bacon Caprese on Instagram Stories. It’s an easy, delicious recipe worth trying for your next gathering.
xo