Harvest Party

OK, this is the time of year when I start to get really homesick...I love so many things about the fall but I especially love the harvest! So many great parties and even more amazing wines. In wine making, the harvest is one of the most crucial times of year. It's when the vintners pick the grapes which usually occurs between August and October. Since the harvest is such an important season, many wineries host a lunch or dinner celebration.

I think the tradition is the perfect excuse to plan a party! Just because you don't live in wine country doesn't mean you can't commemorate the harvest. Invite friends over for a meal that honors the wonderful world of wine.

Arrange the table in a buffet style so people are able to mingle and move around the table easily. Set out an assortment of charcuterie, olives, crackers, and various cheeses. Whatever the size, a bountiful table is a beautiful thing.

Make sure you have enough glasses. Provide at least two wine glasses per person, one for white and the other for red.

This time of year is still a great time to take advantage of the outdoors. Move your party outside in your own backyard. The open space will also enable the guest list to linger longer.

Find a rustic table reminiscent of wine country and use fall colored linen cocktail napkins so spills won't be as noticeable.

Give your guests wine charms with their glasses. This helps eliminate the guesswork of deciding which glass belongs to you after you've put it down for a moment.

Decorate with large bunches of both red and green grapes, colorful autumn fruit, flowers and leaves.
As a take-home gift make some individual wine tags, or give each guest a special wine glass.

The delightful table setting pictured above is from Pottery Barn's Wine and Cheese Party...it's perfect for your Harvest Party.