The sticky nights of summer are behind us, and fall, filled with promises of crunchy leaves and cardigans, has arrived. This is my favorite time of year to throw a dinner party outdoors. Chili, hot cocoa and cinnamon-rich apple cider are finally fair game when everyone’s cozy under the stars instead of simmering under the late-day sun.
Here’s my best advice for hosting alfresco in the fall:
Set the Mood
I send invitations at least three weeks in advance to get people excited and reduce no-shows. Digital invites are the most eco-friendly; Evite®, Paperless Post® and Minted® each have stylish, free options.
As you think about decor, remember that it’s best for the environment – and your budget – to “shop” your own closets, cabinets and drawers before you buy anything new. Also worth considering: Contact a local event rental company that works with smaller budgets. The rental fee may be less expensive than purchasing everything on your own, and then you’re not buying anything you’ll use only once.
Set the Table
Decorating a table is about creating a space where people can gather and make memories. Nothing has to be complicated or expensive. For example, pumpkins make beautiful centerpieces. You can even challenge friends to a carving contest after dinner.
The prettiest floral arrangements for fall skip the bright blooms – “nothing too flowery,” says florist Mallory Browne of L.A.’s Mallory with the Flowers. Instead, opt for deep, muted oranges, yellows, greens and browns. It’s also important to mix shapes and textures, Browne says.
Melamine dinnerware is my go-to favorite for outdoor dining. It’s durable and costs less than ceramic or porcelain. (I love acrylic wine glasses for the same reasons. Plus, I never have to worry about broken glass in the middle of a great party.)
But I did bend my own rule recently: To add a pop of color to the table, I bought stoneware plates glazed in a beautiful shade of indigo. I paired them with gold, textured flatware that I already had. If you’re buying disposable flatware, consider biodegradable wooden or bamboo options in lieu of plastic.
Place cards are ideal for bringing together people you adore but who may not know each other, and they add that final, loving touch to your tabletop design. Create place cards using kraft paper, jute string and a brush pen, all available at any standard craft store. Use the pen to write the names on the cards, then tie each card with a string to a small bouquet of flowers or ornamental grass, such as bunny tails. Or, you can fashion place card holders out of wine corks.
Build the Buffet
Serving a buffet of make-ahead dishes is the easiest way to ensure you’re actually present at your own party. Select recipes that can be enjoyed at room temperature, and also add something toasty like chili served straight out of a slow cooker plugged into an outdoor outlet.
Make your buffet more eye catching and efficient by stacking books or sturdy boxes along the buffet table, then draping a large linen over the stacks. This will create pedestals so you can display dishes at varying heights.
To prevent traffic jams, put the drink station on a separate table. A slow cooker can also work as a vessel for hot apple cider, hot chocolate or mulled wine. Include playful garnishes on the side, such as marshmallows, whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles for the cocoa.
Say Goodbye With a Gift
Set up a mulling spices bar where guests can mix and take home blends of spices to use in mulled cider or wine. You’ll need three to four spices (e.g., whole cloves, whole allspice and star anise) in separate containers, measuring spoons and small (about 7 ounces) glass storage jars with lids. Small parting gift, big impact.
