Gathering with friends to share good food, laughter, and meaningful conversations is a cherished experience. If you regularly enjoy going out and trying new restaurants or cocktail lounges with friends, it can be a nice change of pace to host a night in. Elevate your next soirée by creating a captivating ambiance with beautifully arranged charcuterie boards, custom cocktails, and eye-catching centerpieces. This delightful combination will not only tantalize the taste buds but also visually stimulate and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. You can rotate who hosts, showcase your unique home, and completely customize the experience based on who’s coming or what’s special to you as a host.
Being a host can be stressful, but we’ve got a few tips to help you organize the perfect evening that’s sure to impress your friends. After getting inspired on this summer’s Artisan Home Tour, stop by these official Artisan Destinations to gather the necessities for an unforgettable evening with friends.
Tasteful Charcuterie
Party people love to snack. Enter: the era of the charcuterie board.
Charcuterie boards have become synonymous with elegant entertaining. These platters showcase an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and artisanal bread, offering a delectable feast for your guests. When creating your charcuterie board, consider a balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Select a variety of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, or chorizo, paired with a range of cheese options, from creamy brie to sharp cheddar. Complement these savory delights with an assortment of fresh fruits, like grapes, figs, or sliced apples, and add some crunch with an array of nuts and crackers. Don’t forget to provide a selection of condiments, like honey, mustards, or jams, to enhance the flavor profiles. Arrange the ingredients thoughtfully, creating an enticing visual display that encourages your guests to indulge.
Kowalski’s Markets are your one-stop-shop when it comes to curating the perfect charcuterie board. Choose from a selection of artisan cheeses, fresh dips, unique deli meats, and rows of tasty crackers. Plus, stop by the wine shop to stock up on beverages.
Handcrafted Cocktails
For our hosts over 21, show off your mixology skills with a few handcrafted cocktails. Pick a signature drink for the night and make a large batch or stock up on commonly used cocktail ingredients to tailor drinks to each guest. Make sure you stock up on ice, limes, lemons, soda water, and any other popular garnishes. Bonus points for serving your creations in unique and wow-worthy glasses. If you’re looking for a great brand to shop, check out:
Tattersall Distilling
From canned cocktails to bottled spirits, Tattersall Distilling has a wide range of products to help you step up your cocktail game. Find their bottled spirits in retailers across Minnesota. With cocktail lounges in Minneapolis, Minnesota and in River Falls, Wisconsin, Tattersall is also the perfect place to stop when you’re finished touring the Artisan Home Tour to debrief on your favorite east-side homes.
J. Carver Distillery
Whatever your drink of choice, J. Carver Distillery has quality spirits to fuel every creation. Stop by their Cocktail Room on Saturdays to sample your options. If you’re visiting Artisan homes on the west side of the metro, make a Saturday cocktail table reservation and stop in Waconia with your tour crew to discuss your favorite home features from the day. Then, pick up a bottle from your local retailer to stock your bar at home!
Looking for unique cocktail recipes? For bourbon lovers, gin fans, and whiskey enthusiasts alike, J. Carver Distillery has plenty of recipe ideas!
A Green Thumb
A few pops of color in your entryway and throughout your home go a long way.
Centerpieces are the focal point of your table, adding a touch of elegance and charm to your gathering. Opt for centerpieces that reflect your personal style and the theme of the evening. Fresh flowers are always a classic choice, bringing natural beauty and fragrance to your table. Choose seasonal blooms in a variety of colors and heights to create depth and visual interest. If you prefer a longer-lasting option, consider arranging an assortment of candles in different sizes and shapes. The soft glow of candlelight adds a warm and intimate ambiance to your gathering. Alternatively, you can incorporate natural elements such as branches, twigs, or even small potted plants for a rustic and organic feel. Remember to keep the height of your centerpiece in mind, ensuring that it doesn’t obstruct your guests’ view or impede conversation.
Shop at Bachman’s Floral, Home, & Garden centers to fuel your home garden — indoors and outdoors. They’ve got a fabulous selection of florals and the tools you’ll need for every step of the process. Potting soil and plant food, decorative pots, and every gardening tool under the sun.
Party Favors
While all the time and effort you put into hosting is most certainly enough for your guests to have a good time, going above and beyond with a take-home party favor is icing on the cake. This personal touch can be especially thoughtful for special occasions, like bridal showers or engagement parties. Great party favors are unique, personal, and useful for your guests. Some memorable ideas we love: custom match boxes, homemade goods like jam or bread, antique glassware, or a seasonal candle.
For those that love supporting local, consider snagging some gift cards from small businesses in your area. We know everyone has a beer-lover in their life—and Minnesota is full of first-rate breweries. Hackamore Brewing in Chanhassen, Minnesota is brand new and the latest must-try brewery on our list. Plus, they offer gift cards for every budget, perfect for party favors.
Brought to you by select Artisan Destinations from the 2023 Summer Artisan Home Tour.
