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Something that always inspires me is observing how the light changes—from the softness of slow mornings as I ease into the day, to the warm evening light that makes everything a little more magical. In the fall, it’s golden hour that inspires me most. That glow spilling across a table instantly makes a gathering feel special (even just a simple night with friends!).
This season, I wanted to bring that feeling to life with a relaxed evening outdoors. In partnership with Target, I created a table that feels seasonal and timeless—a grazing board at the center, pretty glassware with a delish fall cocktail, and friends wrapped in blankets as the sun goes down. It’s a reminder that entertaining doesn’t have to be elaborate—just thoughtful and in tune with the moment.
Set the Table for the Season
Every fall gathering starts with the table, and it doesn’t take much to make it feel special. This season, I’m drawn to classic plaids and rustic ceramics as my foundation, then layering in a few simple details that are both useful and beautiful.
Woven chargers and a wavy platter elevate the table, while recycled glass tumblers add a hint of color that feels just right for the season. And for the finishing touch, lanterns and taper candles bring that cozy glow that makes people want to linger a little longer.
A Fireside Menu Made Simple
Fall gatherings call for food that feels as relaxed as the evening itself. Think cozy flavors, simple prep, and dishes that invite people to serve themselves while you actually enjoy the party.
Apple Cider & Prosecco Spritz
For drinks, I love upgrading store-bought apple juice or cider with a splash of prosecco and fresh garnishes. Served in an elegant coupe, it’s festive without adding extra work—proof that small tweaks can turn the everyday into something special.
The Ultimate Charcuterie Board
A grazing board piled with cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts doubles as both dinner and décor—one of my favorite easy hosting hacks. I like to anchor the spread with three or four cheeses in different textures: a firm, nutty gouda or cheddar, something creamy like brie, and a soft option such as goat or blue. From there, I’ll fill in with seasonal fruit, nuts, and crackers until the platter feels abundant and inviting.
Roasted Pears With Pumpkin Chai Granola & Whipped Cream
And for something sweet, roasted pears topped with pumpkin-spiced granola and whipped cream are my go-to. I’ll halve the pears, drizzle with a little maple syrup, and roast until they’re golden and tender. While they’re in the oven, I whip fresh cream with a touch of vanilla. To serve, I spoon the pears straight from the baking dish, add a dollop of cream, and finish with crunchy granola on top. It’s easy, seasonal, and feels far more impressive than the effort it takes.
Cozy Layers Indoors & Out
As the sun dips lower and the air turns crisp, I reach for layers that make a space feel instantly cozy. A plaid pillow tossed on a chair, a striped throw draped over the armrest, or a woven cushion added to a bench. Small details like these signal comfort and encourage everyone to relax. They bring an ease to the evening that feels organic and lived-in, never overdone.
What I love most is how seamlessly these details carry through the whole evening. The same plaid pillows and throws that keep guests cozy outside can be pulled onto the sofa indoors, and lanterns or taper candles create the same glow whether they’re on the patio table or in the living room. Add a simple playlist in the background, and the transition from outdoors to in feels completely natural.
Style Notes for the Host
Just like the table sets the scene, what you wear as the host shapes your energy. For fall, I always reach for pieces that feel timeless and comfortable—things I can move in easily but that still look pulled together. A button-down sweater, wide-leg jeans, and lug-sole boots are the kinds of staples that work just as well by the fire as they do during the week.
I think of it as effortless chic: outfits that are easy to throw together and reflect the textures of the season. Earthy tones—rust, cream, olive—pair naturally with chunky, cozy knits. It’s not about dressing to impress, but about striking that balance where you feel like yourself and your guests feel instantly at ease.
The Beauty of Simple Gatherings
At the end of the day, fall entertaining isn’t about elaborate menus or perfectly styled tables—it’s about slowing down, soaking up the season, and creating space to connect. With a few cozy details, simple flavors, and pieces that move easily from everyday life to special moments, hosting becomes less about planning and more about presence. That’s the beauty of fall gatherings: they remind us that joy often comes in the simplest forms.
