Fall is here and that means the super busy holiday season is upon us. There are a bounty of entertaining opportunities at this time of year and if you’re hosting, you’ll need to be ready for that important role. Here are 10 essentials to set you up for hosting a successful party.
When it comes to having a party that you consider successful, well I think it boils down to two important factors. Your guests have a wonderful time, and SO DO YOU! Sometimes we overwhelm ourselves with so work that we never have time to enjoy our guests. That’s not fun for us or them.
From simple classic ideas for decorating and serving that you can use from year to year to appliances that will make food preparation a breeze, these essentials are going to help you overcome that too!
10 Essentials For Fall Entertaining
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Slow Cooker
Even though the slow cooker has been overshadowed by its zippy cousin, the pressure cooker, crockpots still shine when it comes to entertaining, especially in the fall.
Appetizers, meals, and even beverages can benefit from a long session in a slow cooker. Crockpots are also handy because you can start your food prep earlier in the day and leave it to slowly cook while you take care of other tasks. I love one that’s programmable – set it and forget it! Here’s one of my favorite slow cookers!
Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer, 6 To 10 Oz. Brew Sizes, Black
Beverage Maker
A beverage maker, like my favorite, the Keurig, is a great addition to any party. Set up a beverage bar with a variety of K-cups, cream, sugar, and other additions, and your guests can serve themselves up a delicious drink without waiting for you!
Add some fun choices like peppermint sticks, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and whipped cream and your guests will have fun while grabbing a bevvie!
Oster Buffet Server Warming Tray | Triple Tray, 2.5 Quart, Stainless Steel – CKSTBSTW00
Warming Tray or Buffet Server
Having something that helps you keep foods warm can really help eliminate all that running around, making sure everyone is being served. This way you can put out the warming tray and let everyone help themselves. You get more time to interact with your guests and they get to grab some food as they please.
You’re going to LOVE these super simple party appetizer ideas!
American Atelier 1270527 Marble Serving Tray, 14
Serving trays
Trays are a must for carrying dishes, drinks, food and other party items around your entertaining space, especially if you’re hosting outside. Moving items from room to room is easier and quicker if you can load multiple things on a tray. And they make it much easier for others to step in and offer a helping hand. Here’s a serving tray that’s functional and easy to clean.
AmazonBasics 18-Piece Kitchen Dinnerware Set, Dishes, Bowls, Service for 6, White Porcelain Coupe
White dishes
Stick with classic white dishes that are always in style. White will work with any theme or decor that you may have for your party. Paper plates are great for outdoor summer picnics, but fall entertaining during the holidays is just a little more elegant with dishes. White dishes make it easy to layer them with colored accents to match the season. Here’s a classic white set that’s perfect!
Cotton Craft Dinner Napkins, 20 by 20-Inch, Pack of 12, Multi-Colors
Versatile cloth napkins
Cloth napkins add a touch of elegance to your entertaining efforts and are something that you can use again for your next party. Try to stick with solid colors rather than a design so that you can use them with any theme. Here’ s multi-pack in various colors, or choose classic white.
Copper mugs
Copper mugs are not only functional but a great decor item for fall get togethers. The color just says autumn! Whether you are serving Moscow Mules, tea, apple cider or hot chocolate, these mugs will add just the right touch to your fall party!
Estilo 1 gallon Glass Mason Jar Double Beverage Drink Dispenser On Metal Stand With Leak Free Spigot
Libbey Selene Punch Bowl Set with 8 Punch Glasses, Punch Bowl and Ladle
Drink Dispenser
Having a drink dispenser (or punch bowl if you want to go retro) is a simple way once again to give your guests some independence and allow them to serve themselves while also freeing you up from providing everyone with beverages.
Antizer Flameless Candles Led Candles Pack of 9 (H 4
Candles
Candles make everything a little more cozy and whether you use these on your dining or buffet table, or place them on a mantel or side table, they will add a bit of mood lighting to your party. If you’re worried about safety, opt for flameless candles like these. They even come with a remote!
Extra Blankets
If you’re entertaining outside you’ll want to have extra blankets handy for chilly evenings. Guests will appreciate this extra touch. If you’re indoors, blankets add a cozy touch and there’s always someone who will make themselves at home and want to wrap up in one! Here’s an autumn-inspired color in a sweater-weather cable knit.
Bonus Idea: Slippers
Here in Canada, we tend to remove our shoes or boots at the door when entering someone’s house. Because of this, I tend to carry a pair of slippers or slipper socks with me to put on, particularly in the cooler months. Not everyone remembers to do that though.
Having some inexpensive slippers or socks on hand is that extra special touch to let your guests know you care. I look for them on sale or at dollar stores but I’ve also found some really reasonably priced ones at Amazon too! You can wash them and reuse them or send them home with the guest.
These 10 items should help get you started you as you plan your fall entertaining hosting duties. The most important item is a smile on your face to make your guests feel welcome and at home!
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