My Go-To Main Dish: Kabobs

If I had to pick one main dish to serve, kabobs are my hands-down favorite. They’re perfect for a crowd, super versatile, and the best part? You can prep everything the day before. That means less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests.

Kabobs work for just about any dietary preference—steak, chicken, shrimp, or totally plant-based, there's something for everyone. I like to use a universal marinade that works across the board, so I don’t have to overthink it. Pro tip: grill-ready skewers make cooking so much easier and look amazing served up on a big platter. Instant wow factor.

Rounding Out the Menu

I like to balance the grilled mains with something refreshing, like a watermelon salad with mint and feta. A simple fruit salad or bountiful veggie platter is always a win, too. For heartier sides, I’ll go with baked beans or mac and cheese—always the mac and cheese if kids are coming! And if you’re not making it from scratch, no shame: I love grabbing the one from Costco, transferring it to a nice dish, heating it up, and topping it with crumbled bacon. It’s always a hit.

Serving Style: Keep It Simple and Self-Serve

For backyard gatherings, I go full buffet style (don't miss my tips on how to set up a buffet table). It’s casual, easy to manage, and lets people help themselves. I usually prep my table in advance and map out where everything will go. Recently, I’ve been serving chips in baskets with little plastic scoops—it’s a small touch that somehow feels elevated.

For dessert, mason jar treats are my go-to. Pies, dump cakes, strawberry shortcake—they’re easy to prep ahead, easy to serve, and feel like a little treat. I keep them chilled inside and bring them out after dinner so guests can grab one when they’re ready.

Quick tip: If you’re serving anything cold (like pasta salad or fruit) and it’s hot outside, tuck some flat ice packs under your tablecloth to help keep things fresh a little longer.

Making Guests Feel Instantly at Home

One of my favorite ways to welcome guests is by giving them something to do right away. I’ll point them to the drink station and make sure there’s something to snack on. It takes the pressure off the host and helps people ease into the gathering naturally.

I always have drinks and light bites ready before anyone shows up. Sometimes that means lemonade, iced tea, and water on a tray; other times I’ll mix up a signature cocktail that’s ready to pour (like these pineapple margaritas!). For snacks, I keep it simple—bowls of pretzels or nuts on the table, chips and guac, or a veggie tray. Don’t forget the kids! Make sure there’s something fun for them to munch on too.

The Details That Make the Difference

It’s the little things that make guests feel truly cared for—nothing over-the-top, just thoughtful touches.

I like to have a basket of blankets out in case it gets chilly, and I always set up a “help yourself” basket with sunscreen and bug spray. If I’m serving canned drinks, I’ll add a little basket of koozies nearby. And one of my favorite touches? A tiny bud vase with fresh flowers in the bathroom guests will use. It’s a five-second thing that makes a big impact.

Easy, Laid-Back Decor That Still Feels Special

Decorating for a backyard BBQ doesn’t have to be complicated. I always start by flipping on the market lights—the warm glow instantly makes everything feel festive. I also love adding solar lanterns with fun cut-out patterns. They charge during the day and light up at dusk without any effort. I recently added some daisy-punched metal solar lanterns to the yard, and they cast the prettiest shadows. Instant cozy vibes.

For the table, I keep it natural and unfussy. I’ll clip some herbs or greenery from the yard and pop them into mason jars or little terracotta pots. If I’m grabbing flowers from the store, I stick to one color and use two types for a clean, cohesive look.

Tableware That’s Simple, Stylish, and Practical

When it comes to serving, I keep things super practical but still pretty. I have a stash of plain white platters and bowls—they go with any setup and make everything look pulled together. For plates and utensils, I love using biodegradable bamboo. They’re eco-friendly, sturdy, and give that relaxed, rustic vibe that just feels right outside.

The bamboo sets come in different shapes and sizes, which is great when your menu has variety. Bonus: they actually hold up with heavier food, unlike some flimsy disposables. I also found a glass beverage dispenser that stacks—perfect for serving tea in one and lemonade in the other. It makes the drink station feel instantly polished.

Don’t Forget the Fun!

Great food and conversation are the heart of any party, but I like to have a few low-key activities around to keep things lively. We have a bocce court, so I’ll set out the balls and let people jump in as they like. Cornhole and giant Jenga are always a hit, especially with the kids.

Sidewalk chalk is a no-fuss option for little ones, and if I want to mix things up, I’ll bring out a tabletop game. Lately, we’ve been loving Pepper Pong—it’s like pickleball meets ping pong, and you can play it on any flat surface. It’s fast, silly, and gets everyone laughing.

When the sun goes down, we always like to start a fire in our solo stove (above under the jenga). It lights so quick and has very little smoke.

A great backyard BBQ doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little prep, some simple touches, and a relaxed mindset, it’s easy to create something that feels both effortless and memorable.

The post How To Host a Relaxed, Crowd-Pleasing Backyard BBQ appeared first on Thoughtfully Simple.

Since we were inviting his preschool class, I included a little insert with instructions that we would have a deep pool so please bring a floatie if needed. And I also let parents know we would have an official lifeguard on duty. Which this is my new MUST for future little kid pool parties because it made is so much less stress for myself and my husband.

We made this beachy wayfinding sign and placed it on the porch to great guests. We painted the wood and then I used vinyl Cricut letters for the signs. I stuck with the same font I used on the invitation.

We made another for the backyard which was the party space. It pointed accurately to all the areas of the party we had set up!

What we put on our surf party wayfinding sign:

Waves (pool)
Surf Shop (the favor station)
Beach Grill (the food table)
Sand Bar (the drink station)
Restrooms

I added a few surf party decor elements in our shaded cabana area. I attached a fishing net to the top corner and added a few beach balls and a "5". I also made some hanging fringe ny using colorful plastic tablecloths and twine to hand them. So simple!

In this area I also set out some sunscreen and colorful zinc. This was a hit with the kids! They all ended up with neon stripes on their faces.

This area was shaded so we also set up our "Sand Bar" which was really just the drink station.

Aross the yard was our "Beach Grill." I wanted to level up the food table so it felt more in the surf party theme. Who doesn't love a beach grill? I brought out the food after about an hour of swimming. The "line up" was pizza, cheeseburgers, fruit, veggies, and chips. Anytime I can hang bags of chips I do, it's so easy for guest to grab. I kept a tub to refill under the table. In this case, Hawaiian and Sun Chips were right on theme.

Food we served at our surf themed party:

• Pizza by the slice
• Cheeseburgers (we literally just ordered 2 dozen from Mcdonalds and kept them warm!)
• Fresh fruit
• Fresh veggies + dip (single serving sizes of ranch)
• Chips

To make the beach grill, we painted a huge piece of wood and secured it to the wall, then we build a "cover" to go around a 6ft folding table. The tablecloth on the table matched the paint we used so it was all seamless. I simply stapled some thatch for the beach roof look and added a sign!

Here is our pool deck sign, right on theme for a surf birthday party! I had found a teenager in our local facebook group who offers private lifeguarding in the summer and he was perfect! Not only did he give us, the hosts, peace of mind .... honestly his lifeguard outfit added to the party decor! :)

I turned the playhouse into a "Surf Club" and we added some pool-sandboxes for the kids to have an option to play if they wanted a break from swimming. The thatch decor came in handy several times for our surf party decor!

The "Surf Shack" was essentially our favor station. I love using these white racks for parties and they were perfect for this set up. We had neon sunglasses, hats and swim goggles for each kid to use at the party, and then to bag up and take home!

It also made the whole party so colorful with all the kids running around in their hats and sunglasses!

Bonus: They kids got to use them all summer, which I think is how a good party favor should be.

I made the birthday dude a custom hat using vinyl iron on!

I made myself one that said "Reid's Surf Club" and Dad got a custom "Reid's Surf Club" tank.

We borrowed some paddle boards from friends which ended up being a great photo spot. technically not surf boards–but none of the kids noticed!

The birthday dude had a custom "Five is a Vibe" tee along with board shorts to match the party colors.

The desserts were set up inside where it was cooler. I used a neon surfer sign and Reid's sun hat as decor and a letterboard. The desserts were cute on their own though!

Other elements at our Surf Themed Party:

• A kid-friendly surfer playlist was our background music all day
• On the big screen inside, we had on a surfing competition. This was my oldest daughter's idea, since they used to do that at a brewery she worked at on the beach (brilliant!)
• Extra towels were outside near the pool in baskets in case guests needed them
• We put out a couple extra life vests and floaties in case parents forgot their or a kiddo needed a little break from swimming
• We didn't need any party games because the kids were so busy swimming!
• We had floating sharks in the pool for the kids to play with as they swam
• A few beach balls in the pool was a great idea!

Surf Themed Party Favors:

• White racks for display
• Neon kid hats
• Neon kid sunglasses
• Goggles
• Squirt guns

Let me know if you have any questions if you're putting together your own surf themed party, five is a vibe birthday, or just want to host a fun summer pool party theme!

For a look back at Reid's previous birthdays, check out The Big One, Chugga Chugga Two Two, Modern Race Car Third Birthday!

More Birthday Party Ideas

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What Is A Bar Cart Used For?

A bar cart is a piece of furniture that cane be used for serving and storing alcoholic beverages, glassware and related accessories. It typically consists of a flat surface on top for holding drinks and bar tools, as well as shelves or racks for storing bottles, glasses, and other items you need to fix a drink.

You roll out your bar cart when entertaining guests. Many have wheels which makes it easy to move room to room and provide an easy and stylish way to offer drinks and snacks. They can also be used for personal use, such as for creating a mini bar area in a home or apartment that is more permanent.

Depending on your home's size, your style, and your overall use of a cart, it can be a permanent set up or something you bring out when entertaining. (Personally, mine is tucked away and only wheeled out when I'm entertaining).

In addition to their practical uses, bar carts are often chosen because they look great. They come in a variety of styles and designs that can complement a range of home decor styles.

What To Stock A Bar Cart With When Entertaining

Setting up a bar cart can be a fun and stylish way to entertain guests at home. Once you've found a bar cart you like you'll need to stock it with the right essentials. Here's a simple guide for you on how to set up a bar cart with all the essentials:

1. Stock up on barware: You'll need a variety of barware to make different drinks, including a cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, mixing spoon, muddler, and bottle opener. You can also add unique and fun bar tools such as a citrus zester, garnish scissors, or a cocktail smoker if you really want to get fancy.
2. Choose your glassware: For a party, you'll need a variety of glasses to serve different types of drinks, such as martini glasses, highball glasses, wine glasses, and shot glasses. Make sure you have enough glasses for the number of guests you plan to entertain. For an everyday bar cart in your home, stock it with the glassware you use most often.
3. Select your spirits: Choose a selection of spirits that you and your guests enjoy, including vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, tequila, and liqueurs. Don't forget to also have mixers like tonic water, soda water, cola, and fruit juices.
4. Add some garnishes: Fresh garnishes such as lemon and lime wedges, mint leaves, and cocktail cherries can add a touch of flavor and color to your drinks. You can also experiment with other ingredients like edible flowers, herbs, or even bacon.
5. Provide ice: Add an ice bucket and some tongs. If you're feeling extra, make these flower ice cubes.
6. Add the extras: Provide paper napkins, stir sticks and straws so guests have everything they need all in one place.

The Pros And Cons Of Setting Up A Bar Cart

Setting up a bar cart at home can be a great way to create a dedicated space for entertaining and enjoying easy cocktail recipes with friends and family. But, a dedicated bar cart isn't for everyone. Here are some pros and cons of setting up a bar cart at home:

Pros

• Convenience: A bar cart makes it easy to have all of your barware, glassware, and spirits in one place.
• Style: A bar cart can add a touch of style and sophistication to your home decor. With so many different styles and designs to choose from, you can find one that complements your style and aesthetic.
• Entertaining: A bar cart is perfect for entertaining guests. You can serve drinks and snacks from the cart, and you can move it to different rooms.
• Storage: A bar cart can provide extra storage space for your liquor, glassware, and bar accessories. This can help keep your kitchen or dining area more organized.

Cons

• Cost: Depending on the style and quality of the bar cart you choose, it can be expensive to set up a home bar cart. This is especially true if you also need to purchase new glassware and barware to fill it.
• Space: A bar cart can take up a significant amount of space in your home. You may need to rearrange furniture or get rid of other items to make room for the cart. (This is why I store my in the garage and only wheel it out when I'm hosting guests!)
• Temptation: Having a fully stocked bar cart at home can be tempting. This can make it harder to stick to your goals if you're trying to cut back on alcohol consumption.
• Not exactly family-friendly. If you have little ones at home (or coming to your party), having a cart with a bunch of glass bottles isn't very safe.

What Is The Best Bar Cart?

Wondering which bar carts are best? The short answer is, it depends. There are so many different styles of bar carts I rounded some favorites up here) that it will totally depend on your style and the functionality you'll want it to have.

If you're bar cart will be pernament, you'll want to make sure it fits in with your home decor style. If you'll be moving it around, make sure it has wheels. It also should be the right size for your space and needs. Consider how many shelves and compartments you'll need to hold all your barware, glasses, and bottles. Here are some bar cart designs that I really like:

Gold Bar Carts

Wheeled bar cart with two shelves, racks for wine bottles and glasses.

Only $64.95 and comes in black too. See it here.

This on looks great as a stationery bar cart in your home. The different shelves make it very functional.

$149 and comes in four different color combinations! See it here.

This small bar cart is a space saver and it could double as a side table or nightstand.

$149 this one comes in black, bronze, or silver. See it here.

Outdoor bar carts are perfect for entertaining on the patio or a garden party.

$64.99 and can double for holding food at your outdoor BBQ. See it here.

These are just a few of the best bar carts I've spotted. You can see my full list of bar carts here.

Alternative Uses For A Bar Cart

Beyond the obvious use of serving drinks, I've used my bar cart for many different things. Here are some ideas on how to set up a bar cart that doesn't include alcohol:

• Setting up a hot chocolate bar
• Setting up a dessert bar
• As a way to serve appetizers (like this appetizer buffet)
• My outdoor bar cart is often used to hold baskets of pool towels and sunscreen
• Another use of my outdoor bar cart has been as a bubble and sidewalk chalk station for a kids party

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The post Raise the Bar: Your Guide to Setting Up the Perfect Bar Cart appeared first on Thoughtfully Simple.

If you're planning a Superbowl party, check out these easy food, DIYs, and drink ideas. When I'm hosting, I like to keep things simple and create recipes I can make ahead of time, that can be left out for grazing during the day, and that add a little football-theme fun to the party.

Here are a few of my favorite easy Superbowl snacks and party ideas:

1. Create A "Halftime" Snacks Table

I like to make a savory snack table full of sporty themed snacks and treats (like pretzels and corn nuts). Set this up before your Superbowl party and guests can help themselves throughout the day. Add your favorite sports park snacks or football themed food.

2. Football Snack Bags

I can't tell you how many times I've made these DIY football snack bags. They are so easy to make! Fill them with popcorn, chips, or chex mix for the perfect grab-and-go easy Superbowl snacks.

3. Easy Football Cupcakes

These football cupcakes couldn't be easier to make (or more adorable)! You can even with store-bought cupcakes to make it easier on yourself. I do this all the time!

4. A Game Day Snack Tray

I like to put a variety of chips and dips on a tray for Superbowl. This way you can move the tray around (put one of the coffee table!) and then just pick it up to take it to the kitchen to refill as needed.

5. Chicken and Waffle Sliders

This two-bite appetizer makes the perfect Superbowl snack. These chicken and waffle sliders use frozen chicken tenders and waffle fries so you can pop them in the oven whip them up right before halftime.

6. Beer Cheese Dip

Is it even a Superbowl party without dip? Make this beer cheese dip for a twist on the classic. Just make sure to have extra on hand (it has bacon in it, and everyone loves bacon).

7. Hot Honey Fries

French fries get a major upgrade with the addition of hot honey. This easy Superbowl snack will satisfy your guests who like a little heat. Make these hot honey fries to impress your party guests.

8. Chili Cheese Twists

These chili cheese twists are a unique Superbowl snack. The texture is light and flaky and the flavors pack a chili-punch. Serve them with some nacho cheese dip and watch them disappear.

9. Chili Cheese Flatbread

This chili cheese flatbread recipe tastes like a classic chili dog but serves like a pizza. I find kids especially love this easy recipe.

10. Football Mason Jars

These football mason jars are so cute for any dark beverage you're serving (like root beer, tea, or beer). All you need is white tape and a few mason jars.

11. Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

These herb cream cheese stuffed peppers are a great addition to your Superbowl snack lineup. They have a lighter taste and are best room temperature. Prep them the night before your Superbowl party.

If you want to think beyond the typical Superbowl food, make one of these easy Superbowl snack recipes. You can use the buttons below to save this post to Pinterest for later.

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A couple sweet cocktails, some red cocktails, and all perfect sips for a special day.

What Are Good Valentine's Day Cocktails?

You can never go wrong with a bottle of champagne or nice wine (especially chilled on flower ice cubes), but if you're in the mood for something more festive, making a Valentine's Day cocktail is a great idea.

Aside from looking pretty, here are some things to keep in mind when deciding what cocktail to make:

• Berry flavors typically are crowd pleasers
• Anything with bubbles is instantly festive! This can be a cocktail with champagne, club soda, or even sparkling water
• A red or pink cocktail says "Valentine's Day"
• For a romantic night in, something smoky or full bodied would work well

Creative Valentine's Day Cocktails To Try:

These Valentine's Day drinks are easy to make and look really pretty, too. Which (in my opinion) is a must if you're making a special drink for Valentine's Day. See why I'm loving each cocktail below, plus click through your favorites to get the full recipe.

1. Campari Cocktail (Love Potion)
2. Grapefruit Vodka Punch (Love Punch)
3. Spicy Tomato Martini
4. Blended Dirty Shirley
5. Dragon Fruit Margarita
6. Vodka Infused Strawberries
7. Blood Orange Moscow Mule
8. Blackberry Bourbon Smash
9. Espresso Martini

1. Campari Cocktail (Aka Love Potion)

This gin Campari cocktail is a bold, red color which is perfect for Valentine's! It isn't overly sweet and has a hint of herbal and berry flavors.

2. Grapefruit "Love" Punch

This grapefruit cocktail punch combines grapefruit and vodka and makes the perfect big-batch cocktail for a Galentine's Day party!

3. Spicy Tomato Martini

This spicy tomato martini is for the savory lovers out there. It packs a little heat and also makes a great Valentine's Day brunch cocktail.

4. Blended "Dirty Shirley" Cocktail

If you like blended cocktails, this adult Shirley Temple is a nostalgic (and yummy) one to make. The dark cherries give it a grown-up flavor.

5. Dragon Fruit Margarita

Make a bright pink cocktail and blend up a dragon fruit margarita. If you're a tequila fan, try this as your Valentine's Day drink. It's super bright in color, and not overly sweet.

6. Vodka Infused Strawberries

This might not be your typical cocktail but if there ever was a time to make these vodka soaked strawberries, it's Valentine's Day!

7. Rosé Spritzers

These rosé spritzers only require two ingredients and the pale pink color is on point for this romantic day.

7. Blood Orange Moscow Mule

This Kentucky Mule recipe uses bourbon which gives it a nice warm spicy flavor for Valentine's Day. Oh–and the blood orange ginger beer makes it PINK.

8. Blackberry Bourbon Smash

Another bourbon cocktail for Valentine's Day is this Blackberry Bourbon Smash. The blackberries give it a deep purple/red color which makes it feel festive for Valentine's Day.

9. Espresso Martini

Although it's not pink or red, this Espresso Martini seems like a great choice for a Valentine's Cocktail. I'd sip this before going to dinner, or enjoy one with your special person while cooking a meal at home.

I hope you've found a Valentine's Day cocktail that you're looking forward to making! Which one looks best? Leave a comment and let me know!

More Ideas For Valentine's Day:

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We decided (from his 1st month milestone), that we would take his monthly baby photo in his room. I just love the feel of his neutral nursery, and it made it easy to take the photo in the exact same spot each month.

I absolutely love that we took these monthly baby photos because when we look at them all side-by-side we can really see how much he changes throughout his first year.

Not only did I post each month's photo to Instagram, I also printed these photos and used them as decor at his Notorious ONE first birthday party. Guests loved seeing all the pics strung up in a line.

5 Tips For Taking Baby Boy Monthly Photos

The key to taking monthly photos of baby that looks all cohesive at the end of the year, is to have a plan before the first month's photo! And since you won't have the energy (or brain power) to plan this on the fly, I would plan it now so all you have to do is snap that cute pic!

Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your monthly milestone pictures:

• The most important thing is to remember to take Baby's monthly photo! I found it helpful to set a reminder in my phone each month (because, mom brain!)
  
  
• For baby's monthly milestone photo outfit, pic something that you can be sure they can wear every month 1-12. I chose a simple white onesie because I knew we would always have one of these in the drawer, no matter if he was a newborn or 12 months old!

• Choose Mom or Dad's outfit the same way. You can wear the same exact shirt each month, or change it up a little. Here, Daddy wore the same type of T-shirt but in a few different colors. He just circled them out so no two months he was wear the exact same one

• Choose where you will take the picture each month. You want to make sure you stand in the exact same place so keep this in mind. You can do this standing, or even sitting in a rocking chair. The point is to have the background not changing, that way only baby is changing from each month's milestone photo!
  
  
• Save all of these photos somewhere in folder on your phone or desktop. You will have a TON of photos of baby the first year, and the last thing you'll want to do is have to scroll endlessly trying to find them all. I made a folder on my phone which was super easy!

Using Props For Baby's Monthly Photos

You can use props when taking baby monthly photos to signal which monthly milestone it is. I decided to just keep is simple with baby only, but here are some milestone props that I would consider using!

• Milestone Blanket: This makes it easy to get the same background each month. Simply lay baby on the blanket and take a picture from overhead.
• Monthly Milestone Wood Photo Cards: I love the simple look of these milestone cards. Since baby can't hold them, you would hold for them or place next to them for the photo.
• Monthly Milestone Stickers: These are the same idea as the photo cards, except you just stick them to baby's onesie! You can choose from many colors and designs.

I hope you're feeling motivated to snap a cute pic of Baby each month. Believe me, you'll cherish these changing photos FOREVER! Before you know it, you'll be planning their first, second, and third birthday!

Be sure to save this Pin to Pinterest so you remember where it is later!

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The post Capturing His First Year! Baby's Monthly Pics appeared first on Thoughtfully Simple.

These wreath decor ideas are super budget friendly and are so easy anyone can do it (even if you're not crafty!), I promise.

I gathered all of my supplies at a local craft store and had this up on the wall in just ten minutes!

What I like about hanging a group of wreaths on a blank wall is the impact it makes. It looks like you really meant to create a display and it looks a lot more "designer" than it is!

Since it's not even Thanksgiving yet, I decided to give my wall more of a fall wreath look. BUT . . . one Thanksgiving has passed, I am going to easily update this wreath decor to feel more like Christmas decor.

Related Posts: Thanksgiving Centerpiece Ideas

What You Need To Create Wreath Wall Decor

You can take this idea and really make it your own, but for my wreath wall decor I wanted to create an overall look that was a little boho and that could work for both fall and winter holidays.

You will need to get:

• A variety of faux wreaths in varying sizes. I picked mine up at a local craft store but I added a list of wreath supplies you can get right from Amazon.
• Command hooks to hang the wreaths on the wall
• A couple different ribbons. Aim for two different textures (I love velvet ribbon) and sizes
• Some type of embellishment like small brass bells or tassels to hang from 1-2 of the wreaths

How to swap from fall wreath decor to Christmas wreath decor:

• Swap out the colors of the ribbon to feel more like Christmas
• Swap out 1-2 of the wreaths. I plan on swapping the more boho wreaths for more traditional evergreen wreaths (or even a winter berry wreath)

Related Posts: Decorating With Cranberries

Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Wreaths

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These easy cocktails are perfect for Thanksgiving because they're full of warm and earthy flavors which pair so well with the fall season.

Easy Thanksgiving Cocktails To Add To Your Menu

You can't go wrong with a nice bottle of champagne or a good selection of wine, but if you want to mix up something special, one of these Thanksgiving cocktails is a great place to start! These recipes focus on fall ingredients and flavors like:

• Apple cider
• Ginger
• Thyme
• Pumpkin
• Cinnamon

1. Fall Moscow Mule

This Fall Moscow Mule is a twist on the classic with flavors of crisp apple and warm cinnamon (it's warm while still tasting refreshing!).

2. Fall Mimosa

This fall mimosa uses tangerine juice instead of the classic OJ and includes fresh thyme which makes this such a unique mimosa to serve as a Thanksgiving drink.

3. Pumpkin Pie Thanksgiving Martini

If there ever was a "Thanksgiving martini" this would have to be it! Make this Pumpkin Pie Martini in mini form for the perfect starter or as a dessert course.

4. Blackberry Bourbon Smash

I love using bourbon in Thanksgiving cocktails because the flavor profile just fits with fall! This Blackberry Bourbon Smash combines the warm notes of the bourbon with the bright flavor of blackberry.

5. Apple Cider Moscow Mule

Here's another fall mule to consider, an Apple Cider Moscow Mule. This is a great Thanksgiving cocktail for a crowd because it has a super mellow flavor profile and you can totally make this a non-alcoholic version, too!

6. Espresso Martini

You can serve this espresso martini before or after dinner (it works great either way!) It might help counteract the food-coma that comes with a big Thanksgiving feast!

What Pairs With Thanksgiving Cocktails?

You can serve a special Thanksgiving drink with your appetizer course, main meal, or even with dessert! There's not right or wrong way to go. Here are some appetizers you might want to pair with your Thanksgiving cocktails:

• Mini Cheese Balls
• Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
• Vegan Butter Board
• Cheesy Chicken Sliders
• With an Appetizer Buffet
• At a Thanksgiving Pie Party

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The post Thanksgiving Cocktails That Are Easy to Make appeared first on Thoughtfully Simple.

You might even want to skip the main feast altogether. Make a couple of these easy Thanksgiving starters, add a Thanksgiving cocktail and bake some pies for a laid back Thanksgiving pie party!

1. Fall Butter Board

Butter boards are the new charcuterie board and they just seem perfect for a special day like Thanksgiving. This one is a vegan butter board making it great for a large group (everyone gets to enjoy it!).

2. Colorful Veggie Tray

Create a large, bountiful platter full of colorful veggies (and a couple dips) and give guests something to graze on that won't fill them up too much. I love the idea of coming up with different veggie tray ideas based on what's in season so feel free to mix up what veggies and flavors you include.

3. Olive Cheese Bread Bites

Make this olive cheese spread ahead of time and when you're ready, slather it on slices of a baguette for a delicious olive cheese bread appetizer. It's salty and cheesy and basically appetizer perfection if you ask me.

4. Herbed Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

You don't need to cook these cream cheese stuffed peppers which makes them a great Thanksgiving starter since your oven will likely be occupied all day. Bonus is that you can make them the day before!

5. Mini Cheese Balls

These mini cheese balls are another no-bake option for an easy Thanksgiving appetizer. They can also be made in advance and they travel well if you need to take them to go.

But, Do You Need Appetizers for Thanksgiving?

I know, it seems like a lot of food. But, you definitely need to have something for folks to snack on while you're cooking up a storm all afternoon. All the delicious scents will be pouring out of your kitchen and making your friends and family real hungry. Planning for some Thanksgiving snacks ahead of time will also keep them from coming in and bugging the chef.

More Easy Thanksgiving Appetizers

If you're cooking a Thanksgiving feast you can definitely keep it simple when it comes to your starters. The point is just to have something set out to offer guests if they're arriving well before dinner will be served. Here are a few more really easy appetizer ideas:

• Purchase frozen appetizers and then set up a small appetizer buffet so guest can grab as they'd like.
• Chips and dip are never a bad option. It's totally fine to keep your Thanksgiving snacks easy!
• Nuts and trail mix are great options
• A variety of olives
• If you'll have kids you can make small sandwiches
• A charcuterie board is a traditional Thanksgiving starter and always a crowd pleaser

More Thanksgiving Recipes and Ideas:

• Thanksgiving centerpiece ideas
• Fall Moscow Mule
• Fall Mimosa with Thyme and Tangerine
• Easy Fall Home Decor Ideas

Related Posts

The post Thanksgiving Appetizers appeared first on Thoughtfully Simple.

My daughter is vegan, so I'm always thinking about what she can/cannot enjoy during the holidays.

This vegan butter board is creamy, sweet, salty, and full of herb flavors. I think it's a fun starter to have on the table during your next dinner party or holiday gathering.

I mean, who doesn't love bread and butter?!

Ingredients I Used for This Fall Butter Board

You can read and print the full recipe below, but here's a look at the ingredients I used to put this board together. I got all of my supplies at Trader Joe's which included:

• Vegan Butter
• Flaky Mediterranean Sea Salt
• Apple Cider Fruit Spread
• Pumpkin Spiced Pumpkin Seeds (These are more sweet than salty)
• Fresh Thyme
• Fresh Rosemary

You can use any combination of flavors you'd like (alternative ideas below), but this combination tastes so perfect for fall and holiday season!

Tips For Making A Vegan Butter Board

Here are a few tips if you're going to tackle your own vegan butter board:

• Any vegan butter will work (salted or unsalted). Vegan butter doesn't hold as well as regular butter. This is because it doesn't have the same fatty proteins from the milk. The longer you leave your vegan butter board out, the chances increase that the butter will begin to separate and become oily. To combat this, once you make your board, pop it back in the refrigerator to chill and bring it out when you're ready to serve it.
• If you use unsalted vegan butter, increase your flaky salt
• You can get creative with this recipe and swap out any of the elements you'd like
• Spice things up by making hot honey to drizzle on top!
  

How To Make A Vegan Butter Board

Making this board is really simple. You start by spreading softened vegan butter onto a charcuterie board or platter. Next you add your toppings of choice. You can go in so many directions here! You can make a sweet butter board (think cinnamon, chocolate and pecans), a savory board (garlic, salt, herbs), and even something spicy (chili flakes, hot honey, and brown sugar for balance).

You'll want to serve toasted bread with your butter board. I found a vegan brioche bread at Trader Joe's which is delicious! I lightly toasted that along with some sourdough and placed it around the edges of the butter board.

Vegan Butter Board Tips & Trends

The possibilities are almost endless when it comes to making your board. But here are a few popular trends for butter boards and how to recreate the look:

For A Pretty Butter Board

Add edible flower petals and bright lemon zest to your butter board for a pretty wow factor. You can even order edible flowers right from Amazon!

For A Dessert Board

Swap out your vegan butter for vegan cream cheese and spread that on your board. Top with cinnamon, chocolate drizzle, or even spread on some hazelnut spread. Instead of bread, use wafer cookies, graham crackers, and mini bagels.

For A Fruity Board

For toppings, add in a preserve like apricot or wild blueberry (my personal favorite) on top of your vegan butter. Top with some chopped almonds and serve with sliced strawberries and pretzel bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Posts

Print

Vegan Butter Board

This is a vegan take on the viral trending butter board! It takes 5 minutes to make and you only need 6 ingredients!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword bread, butter

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 minute minute

Servings 6 Servings

Author Tori

Equipment

• 1 Bread Knife
• 1 Charcuterie Board or Platter

Ingredients

• 1 Package Vegan Butter Softened
• ¼ Cup Apple Cider Fruit Spread (substitute for apricot preserves)
• 1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt
• ¼ Cup Pumpkin Spice Pumpkin Seeds (substitute for chopped candied pecans or walnuts)
• 2 Sprigs Fresh Thyme
• 2 Springs Fresh Rosemary

Instructions

• Spread the softened vegan butter on a small charcuterie board or tray
  
• Sprinkle with flaky sea salt
• Add dollops of fruit spread
• Top with pumpkin seeds
• Sprinkle evenly the thyme and rosemary leaves
• Serve with grilled vegan brioche or sourdough bread

Notes

If you're not serving immediately, keep finished butter board in the fridge so the vegan butter does not et warm and begin to separate.

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