A new home is a cause for celebration, but what if you move in during cooler weather months? Interior design expert and Dream Team member Jennifer Adams has the answers to stay warm during an autumn outdoor housewarming party in the latest edition of Ask a Pro!
Q. Hello, Jennifer! I’m about to host a housewarming party in November to celebrate my new home. Can you help me with a theme? I plan to have it in my backyard under white tents. Thanks!
—Samantha T.
A. Congratulations on your new home! I love the idea of having your party outdoors. Add festive outdoor lighting and portable heaters if you live some place that will be chilly.
One of my favorite non-holiday-based November party ideas, depending on the timing of your party and if you like red wine, is to do a “Release of the Beaujolais Nouveau” theme! The French celebrate this on the third Thursday of November when the newest red table wines come out, but you don’t have to wait that long. Find some inexpensive Beaujolais Nouveau, which is on the light, fruity, sweet side. Pair with fruit, cheeses, sliced roast beef, beet salad, or figs with goat cheese, all perfect for party foods!
If your party is earlier in November, consider a Mexican theme for the Day of the Dead. It’s a little more than just Halloween, and you can go all-out with a Mexican menu, which is always a crowd pleaser.
Other ideas include an apple or pumpkin theme for your menu. Have a tasting of hard ciders or pumpkin beers! Pair with fruit, cheeses, crackers or bread and other savory snacks. Let me know how it goes! I’d love to see your photos on social.
—Jennifer A.