Warm Up to Fall Entertaining

For many people, this is the best time of year for entertaining. Enjoy the crisp outdoors on bright, blue sky afternoons or wait for the sun to go down and create a cozy, relaxing vibe with a chill in the air. From casual gatherings to dinner parties, we can help with the planning.

No need for spending a lot of money on decorations. Let nature do the job! Shop at the local farm stand or produce department of your grocery store for mums, apples, pumpkins, squash and gourds in interesting colors and shapes. Display them in pretty copper pails, wooden bowls, and jars around your home, as well as on the patio, deck and porch. And don’t forget the foliage! Beautiful fall leaves of every hue are available right in your own yard. Road tripping and leaf peeping are also great times to pick up some natural decorations for your home.

The colors of the season can serve as your theme. Rich golds, reds, and shades of orange will set the stage. It’s autumn, so anything plaid fits in too. No matter what your favorite fall fashion trend is, this time of year has many great options.

Use lighting to establish the desired mood. Hang string lights inside or outdoors to give your gathering a welcoming glow. An autumn fire can have the same effect, whether it’s from a traditional fireplace or a fire pit out on the patio. Help your guests really relax with a variety of throw pillows and blankets they can choose from and share.

Serve a signature cocktail. Autumn is represented by so many delicious flavors, you’re sure to find one your crowd will go for. How about one of these suggestions? Pick one or two and simplify your bar menu by adding a beer option, non-alcoholic cider, and soft drinks.

Is there a football game on? Make TVs available in several rooms where your guests can gravitate, if possible, so they won’t miss a play.

If you’d like to engage your guests, plan an activity such as pumpkin painting, a cornhole tournament, and a few other fun games for the kids. Provide a DIY photo booth with some cute autumn-inspired props. Nothing brings a group together quite like food. Fondue is a fun way to let friends and family interact while satisfying appetites at the same time. For dessert, make s’mores or caramel apples.

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