Usher in the Jewel Tones of Fall with Bold Flavors and Colors

For most--save for the sun worshippers--fall is a welcome time of year during which busy summer schedules slow to an autumnal pace. Jam-packed weekends with beach-side destinations are replaced with local car trips to pick apples or select shiny pumpkins for carving. For caterers and other event and hospitality folks, another busy season swings into full force. The bright colors and flavors of spring and summer give way to richer tones and textures.

Take a look at some of our favorite picks for Autumn 2018.

Play up jewel-toned colors.

Whether you’re hosting a small dinner party with friends or throwing a larger fall soiree, incorporate the jewel-toned colors of the season in dishes and décor. Rich hues come into play with a roasted squash salad set against dark, leafy greens. Pomegranate seeds and rainbow carrots add pops of color and flavor and make dishes and cocktails festive.

Highlight the earthiness of fall with beets and herbs.

Before farmers markets close for the season, seize the opportunity to pick up some cold-weather favorites like beets, turnips and other root vegetables that can be stored in a cool, dark cellar or preserved through pickling and canning. The art of pickling and canning has seen a resurgence in recent years, as sustainability-conscious chefs and consumers prioritize the purchase of local, seasonal produce whenever possible.

To highlight the earthy, herbal flavors of fall, Blue Plate mixologist, Lov Carpenter, likes to pair gin, beet juice, Thai Rooibus tea syrup, lemon juice and eucalyptus bitters in a refreshing cocktail.

Incorporate fall colors in your tablescape.

A little goes a long way when you incorporate vibrant reds, oranges and yellows in your home, event space and dinner table. One of our favorite new linen colors is “Turmeric Velvet,” which gives the table a beautiful pop of burnt orange that evokes a late-night bonfire or the changing colors of leaves.

Finally, get wild and step out of the box.

More and more, hosts are stepping away from what’s expected (e.g., pumpkins and cinnamon) and leaning towards quirky, fun choices (e.g., turnips, eucalyptus and tumeric). Fall is the perfect time to incorporate produce such as figs or artichokes into your tablescape or décor for your next meeting and event. Go with what you love, and your guests will embrace the uniqueness of your fall gathering!