Nationally renowned party expert shares how to create a fun filled 4th of July celebration!

Martie Duncan is the founder of Martie Knows Parties and she won 2^nd place on Season 8 Food Network Star!  Her fantastic finish showed a national audience the creativity and personality that has made Martie a legend in Birmingham, Ala., her hometown. Martie has helped plan everything from celebrity weddings to casual tailgates, big charity events and small backyard picnics, and now she’s ready for July 4th celebrations.  

You might have also seen Martie media on The Oprah Winfrey Show, and her expert advice has been featured in the New York Times and In Style Wedding to name a few. 

What are some great drinks for July 4^th?

Sparkling wine is all the rage; and what better day to bust out the sparkle than 4th of July? La Marca Prosecco is so refreshing on a hot summer day all on its own or mixed into craft cocktails to add that special touch.

Festive sparkling cocktails made with La Marca Prosecco are perfect for serving at barbecues or any summer get together.

A simply muddle strawberries with bourbon and La Marca for a sweet red cocktail. Or you can add coconut liquor and fresh coconut shavings to La Marca for a chic white sparkler. And last of all, you can combine elderflower liquor, blueberries, and La Marca for a blue cocktail. They are easy and fun for you guests. Plus, they are a great way of serving up the red, white, and blue.

Keep it simple and serve each guest their own personal La Marca mini with a festive paper straw. These mini sparklers are not only crisp and refreshing, but add a special personal touch by giving everyone their very own little bottle to enjoy.

For more information or recipes, visit: lamarcaprosecco.com

Do you have any decorative serving suggestions? 

I just discovered my new favorite way to add some style and convenience to your backyard party this July 4^th.  Entertain with ease and sophistication using Chinet, the well-known makers of premium disposable tableware.

Everyone is familiar with Chinet Classic White disposable plates – capable of holding anything that comes off the grill. This year, try the fun, new Square Plate design, a stylish and unique alternative to the traditional round plate while still delivering all the benefits of Chinet Classic White: strong, durable, eco-friendly and made in the USA.

Step-up your sophistication even further by using Chinet Cut Crystal Cups, pairing the appearance of crystal with the convenience of plastic and perfect for a colorful cocktail.  Another fun idea is to get creative with dessert by layering a festive red, white and blue treat in these crystal clear cups.

For more information visit: mychinet.com

Any Suggestions for those of us who want great food but don’t want to mess with a grill?

So, if backyard grilling is not your forte, spend time this 4th of July at the place that knows burgers, Red Robin. Red Robin is the Gourmet Burger Authority famous for serving more than two dozen craveable, high-quality burgers with Bottomless Steak Fries.

Plus they want to take you out for a movie date! Red Robin guests can enjoy the latest Burgers & A Movie promotion and receive a free ticket to see the movie with the purchase of a limited edition “Hercules” gift card from Red Robin. 

To continue the movie theme, Red Robin is serving The Colossus Burger, a fire-grilled beef patty piled high with finely chopped smoked brisket, provolone cheese, grilled onions, and BBQ sauce, served on a sesame seed bun all inspired by the “Hercules” film!

To continue the patriotism throughout the month of July, Red Robin is showing their appreciation for the military by rewarding them with an exclusive offer. Simply sign up today for Red Robin Royalty, its loyalty rewards program, by visiting Red Robin’s website to receive the offer all month long.  

For more information visit: royalty.redrobin.com/