Autumn is the perfect season to host a cosy and enchanting dinner party. The crisp air and vibrant foliage set a magical backdrop, making it an ideal time to gather friends and family for an unforgettable evening.
1. Set the Scene
Outdoor Ambiance: If the weather allows, host your dinner party outdoors. Decorate with fairy lights, lanterns, and candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Use rustic wooden tables and chairs, and cover them with plaid or autumn-themed tablecloths.
Cosy Indoors: If you prefer an indoor setting, decorate with seasonal elements like pumpkins, gourds, and fall leaves. Use warm colours such as deep reds, oranges, and browns to create a cosy and inviting space.
The new blankets from Navy Farm Home are the perfect addition for draping over chairs or displaying in a basket, ready for guests to use when they need to ward off that autumnal chill.
2. Menu Planning
Appetisers: Start with seasonal appetisers like butternut squash soup, roasted chestnuts, or a charcuterie board with autumnal fruits like figs and pears.
Main Course: Serve hearty dishes that capture the essence of fall. Consider options like roasted turkey or chicken with sage and rosemary, braised short ribs, or a vegetarian option like mushroom risotto.
Side Dishes: Complement your main course with sides such as maple-glazed carrots, sweet potato casserole, and Brussels sprouts with bacon.
Dessert: Finish the meal with classic autumn desserts like apple pie, pumpkin cheesecake, or pecan tart.
3. Drinks
Offer a selection of autumn-inspired beverages. Warm drinks like mulled wine, hot apple cider, or spiced hot chocolate will keep your guests toasty. For cocktails, consider a signature drink like an apple cider mimosa or a bourbon maple smash.
4. Favours for Guests
Thank your guests with thoughtful favors that reflect the autumn season:
- Mini Navy Cuticle Balm - Perfect to keep those cuticles at bay, buy here
- Mini Jars of Local Honey: A sweet and thoughtful gift that guests can enjoy long after the party.
- Handmade Candles: Choose autumn scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pumpkin spice.
- Personalised Blankets: Small, cozy blankets that guests can use during the party and take home as a memento.
5. Comfort
To ensure your guests stay warm, especially if you're hosting outdoors, provide plenty of soft, cozy blankets. You can also set up a fire pit or outdoor heaters to add warmth and enhance the ambiance.
6. Entertainment
Music: Curate a playlist with soft, acoustic tunes or classic autumn songs to set the mood.
Games and Activities: Consider having a few fun activities like pumpkin carving, a bonfire with marshmallow roasting, or a cosy movie screening under the stars.
