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, cosy blankets that guests can use during the party and take home as a memento.
A nail kit is a simple yet thoughtful addition to any guest gift bundle, especially during colder months when hands need extra care.
5. Comfort
To ensure your guests stay warm, especially if you're hosting outdoors, provide plenty of soft, cosy 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.
