When the air turns crisp, fallen leaves begin to crunch beneath my shoes and mother nature paints the landscape with inspired hues of rich, golden color, I know autumn has arrived.
Fall is my favorite season. It is the deep breath of contentment between the hurried, hot days of summer and the cold, gray days of winter.
I love to entertain in the fall when the food, decor and atmosphere all reflect the bounty of harvest. Tangy tart apples, creamy pumpkin and loads of fresh produce demand to be made into something warm and comforting.
Think about how you can incorporate autumn into your next entertaining venture. Bring the outdoors in with bouquets made of fall leaves and the last flowers of the season. You can also use pine cones and nuts for accents. Dress your table in nature-inspired colors of amber, gold, cranberry and green. Use all one color of china and serving pieces and create the feel of fall with your table coverings and centerpiece. Or mix and match pieces in fall colors such as brown, yellow, cream, green and red.
Or take the indoors outside when you entertain, soaking up the last warm rays of sunshine while the weather is still cooperative. Provide moveable heaters or build a bonfire. Set a very casual buffet table, again using the colors of fall, and have piles of blankets, extra sweaters and plenty of hot beverages available.
Focus your food on the flavors of fall. Whip up a pumpkin soup or pumpkin bread. Apple anything – from apples with caramel dip to baked apples or apple cobbler – is sure to be appreciated this time of year. Think of having some friends over for a “comfort food” potluck. Have them each bring their favorite comfort food and pool your efforts for a fun and unique meal.
However you plan to entertain this fall, remember to keep it simple and keep your focus on connecting with those gathered in your home.
What is your favorite comfort food? Please share your response here!
Savvy Entertaining 
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