Wine and Dine Outdoors

 I do not need any excuse to eat outside!  The evening weather is perfect for a simple wine and cheese.

 I love brown and green and the earthy colors of fall.  This little child's chair serves as the centerpiece to hold the tray of cheeses and fruit.

 Decorations are uncomplicated with just a bowl of pinecones.

The food is simple with some crusty French and whole grain bread to eat with the cheeses.

Small stools or a child's bench could also be used to elevate serving pieces.  This would be great for a buffet style table.

I served some double chocolate macaroons for those craving something sweet.

 

 Is there anything better than dining outside in the cooler weather?

This vintage table cloth was a bit too small for this old farm door converted table, so I added the willow placemats to either end.

A good strategy to use in selecting cheeses is to borrow the old wedding saying: something old, something new, borrowed, and blue.  For an "old" cheese, select an aged cheese, usually a hard cheese, such as a Gruyère.  "new" should be a fresh cheese, usually soft, such as goat cheese or brie or something else creamy.  For "borrowed" think outside of French cheeses and 'borrow' from another country a fresh parmesan, a manchego or cheddar.  For the "blue" serve a good Roquefort.  Add a pot of honey and sprinkle with some nuts.  If you have some fresh herbs from the garden, add them on the side or on top of the cheeses.

 

As much as I love summer and the time with my children, I do so love the fall!  The crisp air, eating al fresco and time with family and friends watching football!  Maybe instead of chips and dip, serve wine and cheese for your next football gathering!

Thanks for stopping by!

Bamboo utensils: Homegoods; Pewter server and dome: Homegoods; Brown check tea towels: Tuesday Morning; Willow placemats: World Market; Tablecloth, child's chair, French market basket, Rusty outdoor chandelier, old chairs and benches, ironstone plates: various thrift and antique stores; Rattan cake stand: store in Charlotte, NC (also at Room Service Home.)

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