Planning get-togethers doesn't have to be stressful, and it certainly doesn't have to look like it just leaped off one of your Pinterest boards. This past weekend, I turned my friends' casual pumpkin carving tradition into a festive fall affair. It didn't break the bank, it didn't stress me out, and prep and clean-up was a breeze. The event? A chili-topping party!
My job was simple: make a big pot of chili. We used a recipe from a local Atlanta favorite and let it simmer in the crock pot for a few hours. I asked each of my friends to bring a cheese to dress the chili - it was totally up to them what kind of cheese they brought, and I had no idea what to expect.
Our cheeses ranged from classic cheddar to pimento (crowd favorite) to havarti with jalapenos. A few minutes before the party (literally!) I made some cheese identification flags using things I already had around the house: skewers, card-stock, and good ol' Photoshop.
As each friend arrived, they placed their cheese in the appropriate bowl. I wanted everyone to be able to sample each kind of cheese on the chili, so I assembled paper cups & plastic spoons and displayed them on a platter. Each person could scoop as much chili as they wanted, add toppings, and enjoy...over and over again!
We carved pumpkins, noshed on chili, and enjoyed the beautiful fall temperatures & each others' company.
It was a smashing success and was such an easy way to add a little pizzazz to a gathering. Give it a try and let me know how it goes. By the way, how fun would these be for future taste-testing?

Adorable idea! Chili is my all time favorite fall meal! xx
ReplyDeleteI must say...Lauren Nail is looking fab!
ReplyDeleteAlso thanks for the delish chili recipe link!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea! I love topping my own chili (mostly so I can put on a ton of cheese) so this is right up my alley!
ReplyDeleteLove this! What a clever idea.
ReplyDeleteLauren Nail! :) It was a blast, great idea!
ReplyDelete