A magical night of good friends, beautiful wine and delicious homemade soups! What could be better?
Well, if I didn’t have to do any of the work would be better. But what would be worse?
The worst would be that I wasn’t at the gathering!
My friend Julie (who recently moved to Oregon) hosted her annual soup night party over the weekend and she was nice enough to share her menu and the pictures.
So even though it wasn’t my gathering, I hope that her party will give you inspiration for an uncomplicated and cozy autumn evening.
Keep it Cozy & Pretty
I am putting it on my calendar to visit Julie in her new home next summer. When temps in Oregon might be more appealing than what we have here in the desert.
But until then, I can see her home is just as pretty as can be. And her cozy touches are perfect for an autumn night.
The family room has touches of autumn with pumpkins and the TV set to a relaxing music art station.
She has set up additional tables for drinks and appetizers.
Greet Guests with a Cocktail
Who doesn’t like a nice drink to start the evening?
Well, if it’s you who doesn’t like a cocktail, that’s okay, but speaking for myself, I cannot wait to open the wine. Okay, you knew that.
Julie’s bar had exactly what she needed and nothing more.
Her beautiful fresh fruit and autumn leaves make for stunning décor. Who needs a centerpiece when nature does such a good job?
Offer Hearty Appetizers
Some may not feel that soup is a hearty enough dinner on its own, so Julie served a wide array of appetizers.
These yummies would satisfy any belly!
- Savory Squash Bites
- Mini Mushroom Tarts
- Crudité Platter with Dip
- Cheese and Crackers
- Grapes
- Homemade Pickles
Keep it Simple
I’m not sure if these are all crockpots Julie owns or if she borrowed, but she set up a buffet with the various soups in pots on the counter and one on the stovetop.
Disposable plastic bowls help make clean up easier. Plastic cups on the bar meant no washing and shining crystal. Paper napkins and toothpicks for serving appetizers are perfect no fuss options.
Appropriate toppings were placed right next to it’s corresponding pot of soup.
Julie labeled her soups and kindly let her guests know the heat level to expect.
I spy with my little eye my favorite Calphalon slow cooker on her counter.
Offer a Grand Finale!
Two desserts were the grand finale of the evening. It looks like someone contributed these little yummies.
I’m not sure what they are, but if you’re interested let me know and I’ll beg for a recipe.
And then! This cake!
This Pumpkin Pie Cake from Larocca must have been AMAZING. I linked the description so we can all see the calories we missed out on.
Wrap Up
It looks like Julie’s evening was fun and the soups turned out great.
I think my recent stress-free fall gathering post and recipe for chicken tortilla soup might have inspired this one.
And this beauty full of my favorite things and topped with cheese looks so good!
Many thanks, Julie, for sharing your evening with us. Maybe next year I will invite myself to attend in person!