Hostess With The Mostess

Lola MagazineHome and Entertaining, Lola Shreveport

We are all anticipating a crisp chill in the air after our hot, Louisiana Summer. While the big game in on inside, bring your guests outside to enjoy the weather and a fabulous meal.  If you’re hosting a dinner party this Fall, consider these tips to engage your guests in the excitement of the season. Fitting for a cozy and elegant gathering this menu is filled with seasonal flavors sure to impress. Start with tasty appetizers and cocktails. End the evening with beautiful desserts and warm after dinner snacks by the fire.  Follow this flawless menu to make your “Hostess with the Mostess” status complete.

Menu
White bean hummus w/crackers and crudités
Niçoise salad w/roasted green beans & radishes
Red wine braised chicken & grapes w/herbed couscous & asparagus
Cheese board w/nuts, fruit, & chocolate
Pumpkin crème brûlée
Chocolate blackberry Syrah cake
French macarons

  • Add a little fun for your guest for after dinner!  A s’mores station is a simple way to give a nostalgic feel around a warm fire.
  • Set out a basket of throw blankets too elevate the coziness.
  • Serving food “family style” can be both elegant and comfortable. Red wine braised chicken and grapes over couscous taste as beautiful as it looks, and is sure to please everyone.
  • Homemade hummus is a perfect make ahead appetizer that’s easy yet classy.
  • Arrange loafs of bread on the table and let guest pull apart their share.
  • A beautiful effortless centerpiece can turn any tablespace into a show stopper. Use your fine china and crystal, why else do you have it?
  • Light candles and build a warm fire…. Create a warm and inviting atmosphere for guest to relax and enjoy.
  • Set out a variety of wines- both a red and a white. Also try a specialty cocktail such as Lavender Bourbon Milk Punch:

Lavender Bourbon Milk Punch
1 ¼ oz of Lavender Infused Bourbon
½ oz of simple syrup
Fill with ice and top with whole milk, a sprinkle of nutmeg,
and garnish with fresh lavender.

                                                                                                                                                                -Jessica Comegys

Jessica Comegys, owner of Caspiana Catering has been a professional chef for ten years with an eye for detail and a talent for taste. She and her husband Lloyd have one son, William (2), who is her inspiration behind Sweet William Patisserie & Kitchen. Sweet Williams is in the works and much to be anticipated. Jessica provides healthy prepared meals and at home catering that is truly a treat.

Patio design/builder: Duggin Contactors

Table Scape provided by Lewis Gifts and styled by Rachel Primrose