While Summer may not be at an end yet in California, the temperatures have definitely cooled a bit from beach picnic weather. I love the cooler temperatures that come in with the bay breeze in the evenings during late Summer and early Fall. It makes for a wonderful time to invite a few friends over. Today I’ve partnered with World Market to share my top 5 tips for effortless Fall entertaining.
1. Keep it Intimate
I am a quiet person and while I love (and enjoy) to put together larger events and parties, my favorite to attend are ones with just a few guests. When we got married we had a very small guest list and I wouldn’t want it any other way. A small guest list makes the get-together less stressful to plan, and adds a touch of intimacy and coziness that you simply can’t fake with decor.
2. Update Your Decor
I don’t know why, but before I host a party I always update my home decor. I want my space to feel warm and inviting, as well as feel like I don’t need to make much effort to decorate for it. Lucky for me, my boys both have birthdays in late Spring and late Fall, so the updates tie in perfect with the season changes. This Fall I’ve been eyeing some of the pieces from World Market’s Supernatural Collection, especially these velvety pillows and colored glass vases.
3. Simplicity is King
I know it may be tempting to go over the top with decor and planning, but keep in mind that simple is best! The focus will remain on the atmosphere and conversation, as well as be less stressful for you if you keep it simple. After the house is clean I love to do a small set up at my coffee table, it’s perfect to sit around and enjoy friendly company. An easy way to feel festive is to add a table runner and some fresh florals.
4. Serve Easy Appetizers
You don’t need to make a huge cheese platter or go over the top for your friends to enjoy their time with you. A few delicious items can go a long way. I don’t normally buy things like Brie, so I really love to shop the mini’s section at World Market. It keeps me from having leftovers and is always the perfect amount of food for a few friends. The best part is that there is usually no prep required, just open and put into a dish and you’re done.
I set this whole table up in less than 10 minutes with just a few of my favorites. I love this Gerard Bertrand Rose Blend, it has a very mild flavor without being too sweet or overly dry. I feel like rose is becoming more of a year-round wine anyway. Rose all day, right?
5. Outsource Dinner
One of my favorite things to do when having a few people over is to outsource dinner. We have a few favorite places to eat nearby so instead of stressing out about planning a full meal or cleaning a kitchen, we just head out. Since your guest list is small it will be easier to get a table and enjoy your company instead of hiding away in the kitchen. If it’s in the cards for you, you can even have a chef come and prepare a meal for you.
Very lastly, part of being a good hostess is making sure your guests make it home safely. If you know that you or your guests will be drinking arrange a ride to dinner (Uber or Lyft), and a ride home for them later if necessary. I love to use RedCap, they drive your car home for you and their rates are reasonable but you do have to plan ahead.
To sum it all up, don’t overthink it! You don’t need to overexert yourself to feel like a good hostess, and your friends will appreciate that you’re spending time with them.
Are you planning to spruce up your home decor for Fall? What are your favorite tips for Fall entertaining?
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This post is in partnership with World Market, a brand I love. All opinions here are my own. Thank you for supporting the partnerships and affiliates who make this blog possible.
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