A popular pastime in America, brunch is a prized, late-morning meal that’s informal, super casual and fun — and who doesn’t love bottomless mimosas? With the right vibe, food and setting, you can host the perfect, unforgettable brunch over the holidays. See our helpful tips below!
1. Plan the guest list first; everything else will follow
Once you determine who to invite and receive all RSVPs, you’ll know how many people you’ll be serving for brunch. This allows you to prepare the right amount of food, set aside appropriate silverware and dishes, determine how much alcohol to buy and note any food allergies. Before you even send out invitations, it’s always a good idea to know how many people you can comfortably and realistically seat.
2. Don’t be a one-man army
While you may be a super soldier in the kitchen, you don’t want to exert all your energy in one take (especially when you have so much more to do throughout the holidays!). During one of the most stressful times of the year, it’s OK to recruit some helping hands, whether it’s designating friends and family members to buy groceries, help set up the space, make a playlist or assist with preparations. Most people love to help over the holidays, so don’t be afraid to gather the troops for this special meal! Think of it as an extra-special brunch committee.
3. Go simple with your food selection
Keeping your courses simple is the best way to satisfy everyone. It doesn’t mean you can’t get creative, but remember brunch is all about great comfort food. Typical brunch foods include egg dishes, croissants, easy-to-prepare meats, salads, fruit and pancakes, all of which are generally crowd-pleasing for all. You may want to highlight one dish (like a main entrée in a dinner). It can be something savory like a quiche or something sweet like those amazing waffles you’re known for. Always prepare more than less so no one goes hungry (brunch is a long affair!) And don’t forget the tea and coffee.
4. Make an unforgettable mimosa
Mimosas never go out of style, and they truly anchor the spirit of brunch (the mimosa was created around the time brunch became popular in the US in the 1930s). Mimosas are easy to make, and early guests appreciate them while you finish the last touches of your food preparation. Make your mimosa stand out by using fresh-squeezed orange juice (not from concentrate) and a nice bottle of chilled champagne. You can even set up a mimosa bar with a selection of fresh-squeezed juices in pretty pitchers or carafes, as well as a bottle of champagne and Prosecco, so guests can have options and blend their own.
5. Cut back on the frills
The whole point of brunch is to gather great friends and family for quality time. Keeping brunch simple with food, setting and decor is key. Avoid going over the top with decorations and ensure the overall scenario is comfortable, warm and inviting. You can create the perfect setting with the littlest things, like a bouquet of flowers or lit candles. These show you put in effort without compromising the ambience. Feel free to add atmospheric music to the background but make sure it’s not overbearing. Your guests are coming to see you, not your home decorating skills, so provide a setting that allows for great company!
