Fall Fete: Basic Prep

Festive designs from Paperless Post.

We're anticipating Fall and the festive fetes that will be thrown once the crisp weather arrives. If you've been gone all summer and need to get back in the swing of things, have no fear. We're sharing our favorite ways to prep for Fall, starting with the basics. Step one, check out invitations from paperlesspost.com and send a save the date or invite. Fall fills up quickly for society swans, so set the date and time!

Engraved coasters and menu cards from bell'INVITO /  Top hostess, Gwyneth, of course, has great recipes to try with friends on GOOP. / The D Cookbook has top chefs from DFW with the ultimate recipes to impress guests. Pre-order here.

Get your menu planned: The D Cookbook features local chefs (including those on the hot list right now from FT33's Chef McCallister to mainstays like Stephen Pyles) which are sure to impressed a well-heeled crowd. If you want a little more foodie fun, or just want to host  friends a' la Gwyneth, check out Goop for healthy yet delicious options. 
Go the extra mile: Order engraved coasters and menu cards from bell'INVITO. Nothing pleases like personalized paper goods.

Image via Pinterest.

Places: Get reacquainted with tabletop placement and etiquette. Knowing the proper places sets a luxurious tone for dinner, as well as making guests feel important. A few easy tips: Four-lettered flatware goes on the left (fork) and five-lettered flatware on the right (knife, spoon). Drinks are always in the top right corner of the place setting, above the knife and spoon. For tried-and-true etiquette tips, look no further than The Emily Post Institute. 

Check back tomorrow for more prep tips to make your party unforgettable with tips on decor, tabletop, and more!