Friday Fete: Fall Bonfire

I love a good bonfire. I have so many good memories that involve being outside from evening until way past dark just talking, laughing, and obviously roasting marshmallows. And during college when my siblings and I would come home, we burnt exam study papers at the end of the semester. It was very fulfilling. 

How to throw a successful Bonfire

• Please make sure there are no burn bans in your area and what the restrictions are for bonfires. Smokey the Bear doesn't need someone else to yell at. (Gorgeous image by Thunduri) 
• Serve maple cookies like these from Sweet Peas Kitchen. 
• Create a drink station outside. Stock it with wine, beer, sparkling water, and definitely cider. I like to use Tervis tumblers for a well insulated, non-breakable drink vessel. (How cute is this set up shot by Melissa Oholendt?)
• Have a candy apple bar. It's a fun activity and it uses in season produce (source unknown).
• To heat everyone up, whip up several varieties of soup or pick them up from your local grocery or restaurant. Keep them in festive fall thermoses.  
• Everyone loves mac and cheese. Try this fall version.  
• For food and drinks, pull a table from your house. I love the juxtaposition of the outdoors with indoor furniture for a party. Create a flower arrangement with fall branches, orange and cream flowers and apples.  (From a gorgeous wedding by Anastasiya Belik)
• Wear layers. A knit blanket cardigan is just right. Pull out your duck boots so you don't have to worry about what you step on or any mud. Top it off with tweed. 
• Have blankets and throws in baskets in case someone gets chilly.