Patriotic Table Setting - Goodwill Akron

Thanks to Sisters Shopping on a Shoestring, Northeast Ohio’s largest family-frugal website for this article.

With school in session and Labor Day and Veterans Day right around the corner, it’s time to bring a little patriotic flair to the table. I’m not one to go out and spend a ton of money on something used so infrequently, so I headed to Goodwill. I was able to score some pretty inexpensive items for my table setting. Everything that had a yellow tag was 50% off that day; so I had my eyes peeled for patriotic and yellow!

I came up with a pretty shabby chic patriotic mix for our guests. The best part? I only paid $10 total! That included 3 pair of jeans, 2 patriotic bowls, 3 glass vases and a nylon flag.

I purchased 3 pair of jeans and cut out the pockets to make these super-cute tableware pockets. We then kept a pair of jeans for the “Booty” prize of winning corn-hole. I know, bad humor….but it was a hit!

I also snagged three small vases for $1 each (purple tag). I filled them with water and food coloring. I then went out and picked some Queen Anne’s Lace in the field (yep, I filled my cute little vases with weeds!). I love the delicate flower paired with the strong patriotic table setting. I think some white daisies would be stunning too.

And did you notice the flag? I couldn’t believe I found the flag in the textiles department and it had a yellow tag. I only paid $1.50 for it. I also found these two patriotic bowls for 50¢ (with the half off yellow tag!).

I think putting together a simple table setting for guests makes them feel special and welcomed. As you can see, I kept it pretty easy on myself.

A few tips for shopping Goodwill:

Stop by often: Donations come in daily, so the stock is constantly changing. Browse frequently if you’re looking for specific items.
Find out the markdown schedule: Different days can mean different discounts on specific items. Learn when those discounts happen so you can enjoy them!
Ask for help: Knowledgeable staff and volunteers might know exactly where your sought-after treasure is–ask if you’re looking for something specific.
Also check out Goodwill’s Outlet Store (location here) and Goodwill blue Boutiques (locations here).