This weekend we hosted an open house with friends and family. I treasured seeing the faces of loved ones and I was so thankful that we had the opportunity to gather around and enjoy each other. And I served a mulled wine recipe that was a big hit and a new favorite for us!
I stuck with my mantra that entertaining doesn’t have to be elaborate and kept it simple. Simple food, simple decor. I used paper plates bought in Canton …
… and hung my glittery garland.
I laid my ribbon-edged burlap runner over a striped tablecloth …
… and served a simple spread of sweet and savory snacks.
A few of the snacks had a Christmas touch, including an olive wreath {embellished with cranberries} …
… and a cheese dip {inspiration and recipe found here}.
I served cold cranberry punch and hot mulled wine cider.
The mulled cider was delicious and I’ve decided no future Christmas parties will be held without it {wink}.
Mulled Wine
6 cups apple cider
4 cups dry red wine
1 cup pure maple syrup
2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
1 sliced orange
1 sliced apple
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker. Heat on High until hot. Serve with a ladle and enjoy!
Are you doing any holiday entertaining?
For more delicious hot drinks {that can be spiked as desired}, be sure to check out this cranberry cider recipe …
… a fun idea for an adults-only hot cocoa bar {perfect for a winter evening with friends} …
… and hot citrus cider, a fun twist on regular hot apple cider!
How fun…love that olive wreath!
Looks like you had some great party food and I love your mantra! We had a Christmas party yesterday for a little over 40 people. It was crazy but very fun!!
Looks like your party was tons of fun! I’m going to have to save that cheese spread recipe – it looks delicious! And thank you for your kind words about Connecticut. I think a lot of us need soothing words as we reach out to help those affected.
Thank you for the escapism. Looks like a nice, simple party. 🙂
Cute party, love your table runner. I’m your newest follower:)