How to Host a Backyard Farm-to-Table Fall Dinner Party
September 23 marks the first day of fall and we’ve got all things cozy on our mind: cider, hayrides, sweater weather and nourishing soups and stews. Why not combine the best the season has to offer by hosting a dreamy-farm-to table fall dinner? This week on the Vibrant Health blog, we’re sharing everything you need to know to host your own dinner party.
Tips to Host Your Own Autumn Harvest Dinner Party
- Pick a Date & Send Out Party Invitations
- Craft a Seasonal Fall Menu
- Shop From Local Farmers Markets and Vendors
- Set the Scene with a Dreamy Fall Ambiance
- Keep Your Guests Entertained
Step 1: Pick a Date & Send Out Party Invitations
First things first, you’ll want to choose a date for your backyard dinner party! Once that’s squared away, it’s time to get those party invitations out. Design your own invitation or consider sending a free online e-vite through a service like Paperless Post. Remember: it’s totally OK to keep the guest list small with a few neighborhood friends or family!
Step 2: Craft a Seasonal Fall Menu
The date’s officially on the calendar and it’s time to start crafting your menu. To go along with your farm-to-table theme, you’ll want to opt for in-season fall produce items. Think: brussels sprouts, apples, pear, squash and pumpkin.
Then prepare a menu based on your personal favorite dishes, while taking into account your guest’s dietary preferences — including appetizers, sides, main dishes, dessert and a signature cocktail or mocktail.
Here are some menu ideas for your fall dinner party:
- Autumn Harvest Punch by Five Spot Green Living
- The Ultimate Autumn Harvest Cheese Board by Host the Toast
- Butternut Squash Soup by Love and Lemons
- Fall Harvest Spinach Salad by Eating Bird Food
- Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans by Cookie & Kate
- Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash by The Clean Eating Couple
- Pan Roasted Pomegranate Glazed Salmon by Half Baked Harvest
- No-Bake Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake Jars by Vibrant Health
Step 3: Shop From Local Farmers Markets and Vendors
Your menu is squared away and the week of the event is finally here! Take some time to put together a shopping list of food items you’ll need. Do your best to shop local — sourcing the majority of your ingredients from neighborhood farmer’s markets and vendors. It is a farm-to-table event, after all!
Bonus: you can get more than just produce at the farmer’s market; also keep an eye out for local cheese (perfect for your autumn harvest charcuterie board), grass-fed meats, farm-fresh baked goods and condiments.
Step 4: Set the Scene with a Dreamy Fall Ambiance
Now that the day has arrived, it’s time to set the scene for your backyard party! The most important part: your tablescape. Use picnic tables or long farm tables for a family-style dinner setting. Then incorporate fall decor such as pumpkins, seasonal florals in mason jars and a burlap table runner. Finish it off with twinkly lights and a cozy fall playlist to set the mood.
Step 5: Keep Your Guests Entertained
Breaking bread under the moonlight amongst the crisp autumn air is enough to keep your guests happy. However, as the host you can do your part to make sure everyone feels comfortable and is having a good time. Consider purchasing some conversation starter cards (or create your own questions) to spark lighthearted conversation!
To add an extra touch of sweetness, send your guests home with a small local-inspired favor such as a fall candle, cider donuts, mini jar of maple syrup or mulling spice pouch.
DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended as a substitute for advice provided by a competent health care professional. You should not use this information in diagnosing or treating a health problem. No claim or opinion in this blog is intended to be, nor should be construed to be, medical advice. If you are now taking any drugs, prescribed or not, or have a medical condition, please consult a competent physician who is aware of herb/drug interactions before taking any herbal supplements. The information presented herein has not been evaluated by the FDA or the Department of Health and is not intended to diagnose, prevent, cure, mitigate or treat any disease or illness.