Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons, and the perfect time to throw a sparkling soiree. As a celebration enthusiast, I’ve used this opportunity to put together a fabulous fall party, and wanted to share tip or two to share with you, so you can create your own!
1. Decide
on your overall theme.
Whether that is Halloween, harvest or a combination of the two,
it’s best to decide on your aesthetic so you can center your decor, menu and
design elements around the concept. While it is close to Halloween, I chose to
go for more of a fall/harvest theme for my design; however, I did want to bring
in some elements of the October holiday which I’ll talk about a little later!
2. Design
your table-scape.
The table is where all your mingling and memories are shared.
You’ll want to put some thought into how elaborate or simple of a layout you’d
like to use. To go with the theme, a rather simple, yet elegant place setting
that incorporated different textures and colors was the way to go. Gold
chargers layered with simple white plates were adorned with a wide strip of
burlap. Instead of a classic setting of flatware, utensils were wrapped with
thin, burgundy ribbon and placed the set on the napkin. A cheery bouquet of
sunflowers along with mercury glass votives added to the center decor, and a
quirky owl figurine was the perfect finishing touch.
3. Details
Matter
When it comes to fabulous parties, the magic is in the details.
Your guests will enjoy thoughtful touches like personalized place cards, the
extra drizzle of crème fraîche on the butternut squash soup, and tiny paper
favor bags to take home. Many people skimp on the little extras, but that’s
what takes a party from nice to fabulous!
Calligraphy place cards, tiny tags on the popcorn bar and personalized favor
bags were fun additions to the gathering. To bring in the costume element of
Halloween, glittering pumpkins as well as some DIY, decorated masks doubled as
photo-booth opportunities as well as decor.
4. Planning
the menu
Since most of us are rather busy career women, a full day’s work
in the kitchen isn’t always a viable option. Save time while still preserving
that home-cooked quality by picking up some simple make-ahead options. Instead
of an appetizer, a popcorn and candy bar started the meal so guests could
create their own salty and sweet combinations. This is a delicious and
inexpensive option, especially for the hostess that’s on the go! I chose a
butternut squash soup that comes in a carton or chilled and can be heated up in
minutes, along with a pre-made pear gorgonzola salad to which a few thin slices
of freshly cut pears and drizzled with honey were added. Guests could choose
from two different drink options, a spiced apple cider and sparkling raspberry
green tea in old-fashioned soda bottles.
5. All's well that ends well!
Memorable parties begin and end well, with lots of fun in
between, of course! Serve your guests a variety of delightful desserts to
sample; don’t stress about making an elaborate confection. Stop by your local
market or bakery on the way home from work to pick up some sweet delights. I
purchased a caramel apple kit, Trader Joe’s pumpkin bread, candy, and The Short
Giraffe’s mini white chocolate pumpkin spice truffles! As long as
there’s lots of pretty goodies to choose from, they’ll never know it wasn’t all
homemade. It’s always fun to send your guests home with a little something as a
memory, so brown paper bags filled with sweets, a little note and a lip gloss
went home with each one! Favors don’t have to be expensive, but they do make a
great lasting impression!
Use these tips to recreate your own fabulous fall party! Cheers!
Photography by Alyssa Shrock
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