Summer is the perfect season to host various social gatherings, from casual afternoon barbecues to evening soirees or even summertime brunches. The warm weather and sunshine create an ideal setting for entertaining friends and family. Brunches, in particular, are a great option because they allow you to serve a mix of breakfast and lunch items, making them a versatile and enjoyable experience for guests.
Plus, hosting a brunch at a cooler hour of the day ensures that your gathering doesn’t get too hot or overwhelming. If you’re new to hosting brunches, don’t worry – this feature will provide some valuable ideas to help you impress your guests and leave them eager to attend another one of your summertime gatherings.
Use bright colors
As the sun shines brightly during the summer months, it’s only fitting that we infuse our surroundings with vibrant hues. Incorporating bold and stunning gerbera daisies into your decor not only adds a pop of color but also helps to purify the air around us, creating a harmonious win-win situation.
Design your own fruit and flower centerpieces
To create a unique and visually appealing atmosphere for your gathering, consider designing your own fruit and flower centerpieces. A refreshing combination that never fails to impress is pairing citrus slices with flowers. Simply arrange sliced citrus fruits in a bowl or vase, then add some beautiful blooms on top to create a stunning centerpiece that’s perfect for a summer soiree.
Put some candles in cheese graters
As we gaze upon the soft, warm glow of candles, it’s easy to overlook their versatility. While they’re often used to create ambiance in the evening hours, certain scented varieties can also release a pleasant aroma during the day. In fact, we’ve stumbled upon an intriguing idea that combines these characteristics with a dash of whimsy: placing tea light candles within repurposed cheese graters.
The result is a one-of-a-kind decorative piece that adds a touch of elegance and playfulness to any room.
Creatively display your utensils
Transform your utensil display into a visually appealing element of your dining setup. When serving a variety of dishes buffet-style, incorporating spoons, forks, and knives into creative displays can add a charming touch. Consider placing them in decorative containers, such as plant holders, to create a unique and inviting atmosphere for your guests.
Try a fruit place card holder
Instead of traditional place cards, why not try something more unique and visually appealing? For instance, a small piece of fruit like an orange or apple, with the person’s name written on it in bold letters using a permanent marker, can make for a refreshing and eco-friendly way to designate seating. This simple yet thoughtful touch can brighten up anyone’s day.
Serve up some waffles
Brunch just isn’t the same without a stack of fluffy, golden-brown waffles fresh from the oven. While maple syrup is always a classic topping, why not mix things up and offer a variety of sweet and tangy options? Consider setting out a few different types of berries – strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries – for your guests to top their waffles with. The combination of crispy waffle edges and juicy berry flavors is sure to be a hit.
Fry up some chicken
Indulge your taste buds by savoring the sweet harmony between crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles. For those unfamiliar with this classic combination, let’s dive in – it’s a game-changer! The golden-brown, juicy chicken pairs exquisitely with the warm, comforting waffles, creating an unbeatable duo that will leave you craving for more.
Make a mimosa bar
Take your brunch game to the next level by creating a mimosa bar that offers a variety of flavors beyond the classic OJ. This simple yet effective setup allows guests to craft their perfect morning cocktail, whether they’re an OJ fan or prefer something sweeter. By providing different flavor options, you’ll ensure everyone can enjoy a mimosa that suits their taste buds.
Make a bit of salmon dip
Embrace the flexibility of brunch by serving both breakfast and lunch options. Salmon, being a versatile ingredient, can be enjoyed on its own or transformed into a delicious dip to accompany crusty sourdough bread. This fusion of flavors is sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings for something new and exciting.
Have ready-made drinks in mason jars
Beat the heat on a sweltering summer morning by transforming your brunch gathering into a refreshing oasis. Simply acquire a large, galvanized tub filled with ice and arrange ready-to-serve drinks in covered mason jars within it. This ingenious setup ensures that your beverages remain chilled throughout the entire meal, providing a delightful respite from the warmth outside.
Offer some fruit, marshmallow and brownie kabobs
Transforming the classic fruit kabob into a sweet and savory masterpiece is as simple as adding some fluffy marshmallows and rich brownie bits. This unique twist on a childhood favorite is sure to delight both kids and adults alike, making it the perfect addition to any gathering or party.
Create an omelet bar
When it comes to creating a memorable dining experience, a well-stocked omelet bar can be a major drawcard. To avoid disappointing your guests, make sure you’ve got a variety of ingredients on hand to cater to different tastes and preferences.
Make your own fruit tea
Capture the essence of summer with a refreshing twist on the classic beverage, tea. Instead of reaching for traditional sweet tea recipes, why not try infusing your own fruit tea blends? The combination of juicy fruits like blackberry and watermelon creates a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for sipping on a warm sunny day. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite fruits or simply seeking a cooling treat, homemade fruit teas are the perfect solution.
Bake a quiche
When it comes to brunch, few dishes can rival the versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal of quiche. With its satisfying crust and creamy filling, this classic casserole is perfect for a weekend gathering or a special occasion. If you’re new to quiche-making, don’t worry – there are plenty of simple and delicious recipes out there waiting to be discovered.
Provide some chocolate chip pancakes
Indulge in the sweet and fluffy world of brunch with a stack of delectable chocolate chip pancakes, where the simplicity of a pancake is elevated by the rich flavor of dark chocolate chips. Alternatively, swap out the chocolate for juicy blueberries to add a pop of color and sweetness. The versatility of this classic brunch staple knows no bounds!
Make some biscuit sandwiches
While a standard sandwich may suffice for a mid-day meal, when it comes to brunch, consider elevating your game with a sweet and savory biscuit sandwich. The combination of flaky biscuits and fillings like eggs, cheese, or meats can add an extra layer of sophistication to this meal occasion.
Pour some sparkling strawberry lemonade
There’s nothing quite like a glass of homemade strawberry lemonade on a sweltering summer day. The tangy sweetness of strawberries and lemons is elevated to new heights when paired with a splash of effervescence from mineral, soda, or seltzer water.
Make a few hash browns
While catering to the potato enthusiasts’ cravings, it’s essential not to overlook the importance of preparing a few crispy hash browns alongside your other dishes. This simple yet flavorful addition is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Offer some French toast bites
Indulge your guests with a sweet treat that’s sure to satisfy their cravings – bite-sized French toast. The classic breakfast dish has been reimagined into individual morsels that are perfect for snacking or as a unique addition to any gathering. Imagine the look of delight on your friends’ and family members’ faces when you serve them these tender, golden-brown treats.
Offer cake-in-a-jar as favors
When it comes to wrapping up a gathering, thoughtful favors are a must-have. Why not surprise your guests with a sweet treat that’s both edible and Instagram-worthy? Consider offering red velvet cake in mason jars – the perfect combination of flavors and presentation. As they indulge in this delightful dessert, they’ll be reminiscing about the wonderful time had at your summertime brunch.
