This post has been sponsored by Layer Cake Wines. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
As the summer weather is winding down, I am looking forward to more nights like this…
With the crisp air, cool nights and coziness of the season, there is no better time of year to host a wine night al fresco than the Fall. There’s also nothing I like to do more after putting the kids to bed than catching up with friends over a good bottle of wine ~
Last fall, I partnered with Layer Cake Wines to host a wine night for a few girlfriends. I can’t believe it has been a year since these photos were taken! So much has changed… In fact, Danny was only a few weeks old so it was especially nice to have a night “out”, even if it was just in our backyard.
I’m excited to share a few of my go-to decor tips for hosting a wine night. I always enjoy “setting a scene” for any gathering, big or small. I’ll also share some details on 4 red wines from Layer Cake that are perfect for fall ~
Looking back at these photos makes me want to host another wine night soon!
Table Prep & Adding Layers
Setting the table is one of my favorite things to do while planning an event, no matter the size. It’s a way to get creative, and show your guests you took the time to set the table for them.
To prep, I make sure we have enough glasses for each guest, a wine opener, easy appetizers and a few sweets. When it comes to decor, I like to add different textures, add height and use what I have already at home.
A olive wood board, a variety of candles, tiered tray, cake stand and any interesting dishes help create a functional and beautiful table.
Nothing says ‘fall wine night’ like these varietals of wine. I had combination of 4 red wines for guests to choose from: Layer Cake Malbec, Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon, Layer Cake Pinot Noir, and (a new fave) Layer Cake Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon.
The new Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon was my favorite of them all. It’s not too heavy and it has a really great flavor. Note that it is the only bottle of the 4 that has a cork. The other 3 (Pinot Noir, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon) all have twist off caps. I love this because you don’t need a wine opener for those. The twist off caps also makes it very convenient to serve at gatherings or take on the go.
You can click here to find Layer Cake wines near you.
Wine Markers
This is such an easy tip and always helpful at parties… use something to keep track of your glass! I used washable wine markers for the stemless glasses here. The markers easily rinse off with water and soap later. I also love to use wine charms to dress up the glasses a bit and help guests keep track of their glass.
Decor Favs
I wanted tonight to feel a bit more upscale though than a normal get together. Nights like these are too far and few between these days! Flowers, candles and seasonal or themed items are my go-to’s. A champagne bucket with fresh florals (always a favorite), plenty of candles for ambience and some pinecones we found in our backyard for the fall season and added texture. Looking to nature for decor is an inexpensive and easy way to add elements to your display. Think florals, sand, pinecones, branches, smooth rocks, moss or maybe even fruit, depending on what you have access to.
On the Menu
The food and dessert pairings is always a fun part for me. Wine and cheese are a great combo so a variety of cheeses were a must. A fun twist was adding s’mores with Andes mint chocolates and waffle crackers. I highly recommend giving them a try. Pomegranates, grapes and nuts were served in small bowls. I even made a layered cake to go with the theme! It was a *sweet* addition and something that made the night even more special.
Cheers all to a wonderful fall season of celebrations this year ~ Thank you Layer Cake for the partnership and thank YOU for taking the time to read this post 🙂 I always appreciate it!! xx
