How to Host the Perfect Brunch.

Wow, do I love a good brunch. I’m lucky enough to live in a city that’s got dozens of great brunch spots, but I’ve always had a little dream of hosting one myself.

The thing is, it seems like such a huge ordeal — what to serve for food? What about drinks? How fancy should it be? Yadda, yadda, yadda. Well, after scouring the interwebs (pretty much my favorite thing to do), I’ve got some ideas and tips for you!

BRUNCH MENU OPTIONS

The cool thing about brunch is that it’s breakfast AND lunch, so you can choose one or the other, or you can have a little bit of both. I looked for recipes that combined sweet breakfast foods with savory lunch items.

You could serve a few of these, or pick a main dish (such as the Strata) and have some sides (fruit, eggs, and bacon) — having plenty of options is the key here.

Lots of items you could purchase ready-made, i.e. a fruit plate/salad, lox platter and bagels, and then toss together an egg casserole and you’re good to go!

BRUNCH COCKTAILS

While I love to eat, brunch isn’t brunch without a proper cocktail (which doesn’t always have to be alcoholic). It’s always great to have the basics: bloody Marys, mimosas (traditional is champagne plus orange juice), coffee, etc.

But you can also make your own cocktail, say a giant pitcher of something refreshing?

Here are some cool drink recipes I found:

I also came across a cool, rather easy idea: create a mimosa bar! Have bottles of bubbly (or sparkling cider, or soda water) on ice and then container of different juices. Here are some ideas on how to build your own mimosa bar.

BRUNCH DETAILS

Depending on why you’re having a brunch — hosting a bridal party, a baby shower, or celebrating a promotion — you may want to cutesy it up a little, or maybe just keep it casual for you and your friends and family. I really need new plates and glasses, so I went on a hunt for some of those, and some other cute things that will make your brunch (or everyday) special.

Doesn’t seem so bad now, does it? I hope I’ve inspired you to host a brunch — even if it’s just for your family! Perhaps one of these recipes will make for a good Sunday morning, even if it’s just a simple breakfast. If you’ve got other brunch ideas, please share them! Cheers!