The past week has been warm – I’m talking sandal and tank top weather! It has been pure bliss! And what better way to start off the weekend than a little outdoor gathering with friends. Living in the city I crave outdoor space and it’s rare to have. Thankfully, a dear friend has a beautiful home overlooking the city and Golden Gate Bridge. She welcomed us into her home. After a long week of work, I love getting together with girlfriends for a little wine and cheese – who doesn’t?
When brainstorming setting the mood for this gathering, I wanted to go outside my usual neutral color palate. I decided that since it’s the beginning of our summer here in the Bay Area I’d go big – I’m talking pops of teal and orange. Luckily Horchow was here to help with the tabletop – from the beautiful glassware(that inspired the pop of teal), to the crisp white bistro plates – everything on their site is perfect for entertaining outdoors.
Now, when thinking about what to serve I always start my evenings off with a stunning cheese board filled with delicious bites everyone will enjoy. I personally think they are the best thing to make when having friends over. It’s quick and easy. In order to create what I call the perfect cheese board you need just a few key things in your fridge and pantry. Sometimes, I feel like some people are intimidated by a cheese board, but they shouldn’t be – that’s why I’m sharing go-to tips on creating the perfect one.
• Be sure to include a mix of fresh, aged, soft and hard cheeses. Personal favorites are goat cheese, Manchego and Brie.
• Try adding fruit like pears, grapes, apples or figs. Each compliment a different cheese.
• Add nuts from your pantry – almonds, walnuts or spiced pecans.
• If they have them in your cheese department – a mix of olives is always a favorite among guests.
• And soft baguette and a crackers to spread these delicious cheese on are a must.
Style it all on a long cutting board or tray (like this weathered wood tray from Horchow) and you’ll have guests smitten by this beautiful presentation. The best part? It only takes a few minutes to put together before they arrive!
I hope all of you can enjoy the last taste of warm weather before fall arrives and the sun starts setting earlier. We have to the cherish these moments before it’s too late. Now start planning your next outdoor gathering and don’t forget to pop over to Horchow to see how they can help make it extra chic!
This post is brought to you by Horchow. Visit Horchow.com to see more items you can use in your own home for outdoor entertaining. Thanks for supporting posts that keep Sacramento Street doors open.
Photos by Caitlin Flemming