Elevate the Tailgate

Now that we’ve talked all about the tailgate essentials, let’s talk about ways to elevate the tailgate. As Clairee said, “the only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize.” A football tailgate is no different; accessorize!

Elevated Essentials

• chargeable, portable lights — perfect for those night time tailgates! *event planner tip* A soft ambience really adds lovely atmosphere to the party. Even if you’re tailgating in a lot with lights, these will make it much easier to see your friends and pack up when it’s super dark. The copper color is another beautiful color that looks like outdoor furniture; meant to be outside!
• Lucy Grymes Paper Vase Wraps — Y’all know how much I adore these vase wraps because they make it so easy to create a pretty floral arrangement. Use code DIXON for free shipping! *event planner tip* Alstroemeria comes in all different colors, very affordable ($4 a bunch at Publix) and super easy to arrange. Get them on the way to the game, snap to a proper size, and you’ve got a pretty tailgate centerpiece!
• add a little vintage and customization — my tablecloth featured above was custom made from some inexpensive fabric at a warehouse sale. Find a floral in your team’s colors for a chic tablecloth at the tailgate. I adore adding vintage to any party. A picnic basket adds texture and gives another surface to set items! I also have a vintage ceramic tiger that adds a fun centerpiece. Estate Sales are an awesome place to find collegiate chotskies that are so fun.

• ice bucket — adding an ice bucket to the beverage tray table really makes your guests feel special because you went the extra mile. Keeping the ice from the cooler separate feels cleaner. Let the ice in the cooler keep the cans cold and separate some ice by putting it in the bucket for those who wish to make a drink.
• tumbler — how did we ever keep anything hot or cold before these things?! Fill it with coffee on the way to those early games, give it a rinse and fill with something to keep you hydrated all day long while tailgating. I love how these tigers are a fun way for me to represent my alma mater!
• I love how these items represent my tigers without being so NCAA branded. I’ll use them all season long to rep my team!
• DISCOUNT CODE — use annalouise20 for 20% off at ClaireBella through October 20.

Be sure to check out the Tailgate Essentials post, my Amazon list of Tailgate Items, and come back tomorrow for the cutest clothes for footballs season!