Pour la Bouche: Getting Married

The cooler weather outside is the perfect excuse to bring those near and dear inside. At least, as a southern transplant, this has always been my rational. So, last week when I found myself wearing a wool sweater I decided it was time to plan our second annual fall cocktail party.

Last year, the occasion was housewarming, this year it’s a chance to celebrate fall. We’ve talked a lot about entertaining guests on Currency, and it’s because I sincerely believe surrounding yourself with friends is the most budget-friendly way to enjoy life. In that spirit, here is my guide to throwing the perfect autumn party.

1. Invitations. I’m normally not one to get mixed up with formal invitations, and I’m not suggesting you shell out a ton of dough either. (Disclaimer: I do however love snail mail—this is a hint.) However, an e-invite can really help set the tone of your party. I suggest you check out Paperless Post. I used them for our housewarming party and was really pleased with the results. They track your RSVPs for you—and tell you who has or hasn’t opened the invite so you can harass accordingly. Also, when you sign up your first 25 invites are free!

2. Channel your inner DIY. Fall gives you more time and options for tapping into your crafty potential. This year I’m going to chill hard apple cider and seasonal beers in this homemade pumpkin cooler. I also plan to stretch my baking muscles with some maple-inspired treats. (Tip: To make sure you don’t lose your mind prepping for your party, enlist a patient assistant.) A great source for all things DIY is Design*Sponge. You can find their best DIY projects for entertaining here.

3. Get spicy. As we’ve mentioned before, a great way to save on libation costs is by creating a signature cocktail for your party. For a fall gathering, consider making a drink with bitters or dark berries. Or make a warm drink—mulled wine and hot toddies are always crowd pleasers and warm drinks mean your guests will drink more slowly, which will ultimately save you money.

4. Be flashy. If you’ve sent invites and decked out your place, you’re going to want pictures. (The assumption being your guests put their party best on!) If you don’t have a camera—or if you know someone who has a great one—ask him or her to bring it and play paparazzi for the evening. You could even designate one of your walls as the official photo-shoot spot. Your friends will love their built in party favor and giving the assignment to a guest will take a task off your list.

What’s your favorite part of hosting a soiree in the fall and winter?

This article previously appeared on Currency. (Please excuse the stock photo!)