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What always inspires me is observing how the light changes. From the soft daylight of a slow morning to the warm evening light that makes everything a little more magical. In autumn, I feel most inspired during golden hour. That sparkle that spills onto your table instantly makes any gathering special (even if it’s just a night out with friends!).
This season, we wanted to bring that feeling to life with relaxing evenings outdoors. In collaboration with Target, I created a table that is both seasonal and timeless. A grazing board in the center, beautiful glassware with delicious fall cocktails, and friends wrapped up in blankets as the sun sets. This is a reminder that entertainment doesn’t have to be elaborate, just thoughtful and in tune with the moment.
Prepare a seasonal table
Autumn gatherings always start at the table, and it does not take much to create a special atmosphere. This season, I’m building on classic plaids and rustic ceramics and layering them with a few simple details that are both useful and beautiful.
Braided chargers and wavy platters complement the table, while recycled glass tumblers add a touch of seasonal color. And as a finishing touch, lanterns and taper candles provide a soothing glow that makes people want to linger a little longer.
Simple robata menu
Fall gatherings call for a meal that’s as relaxing as the evening. Think comforting flavors, easy preparation, and dishes that invite people to serve themselves while actually enjoying the party.
Apple cider & prosecco spritz
As a drink, I love upgrading store-bought apple juice or cider with prosecco and fresh garnishes. Served in an elegant coupe, this dish has a festive feel without any extra effort. It proves that small adjustments can turn the ordinary into something special.
The ultimate charcuterie board
A grazing board loaded with cheese, meat, fruit, and nuts can be used as both dinner and decoration. This is one of my favorite easy hosting hacks. I like to anchor the spread with three or four cheeses of different textures. Hard and nutty goudas and cheddars, creamy ones like brie, and softer options like goat and blue. From there, fill it with seasonal fruit, nuts, and crackers until the presentation is rich and appealing.
Roasted pear with pumpkin chai granola & whipped cream
For something sweet, my favorite is roasted pears topped with pumpkin spice granola and whipped cream. Cut the pears in half, drizzle with maple syrup, and roast until golden brown and tender. While the cake is baking in the oven, whip the vanilla-flavored cream. To serve, remove the pears from the baking dish, scoop them out with a spoon, add a little cream, and top with crunchy granola. It’s easy, has a seasonal feel, and is far more impressive than the effort involved.
Indoor and outdoor cozy layers
As the sun sets and the air crisps, you reach for the layers that instantly make your space feel cozier. Add plaid pillows to chairs, striped throws to the armrests, and woven cushions to benches. Small details like this show comfort and encourage everyone to relax. They bring a sense of peace to the night that feels organic and lived-in, never overdone.
What I love most is that these details last seamlessly throughout the night. The same plaid pillows and throws that comfy guests outside can be placed on the sofa indoors, and lanterns and taper candles create the same glow on the patio table as they do in the living room. Adding a simple playlist to the background makes the transition from outdoors to indoors feel completely natural.
Style notes for hosts
Just as your table sets the scene, what you wear as a host will set your energy. When it comes to fall, I always reach for timeless, comfortable pieces – things that I can easily move around with but still look put together. Button-down sweaters, wide-leg jeans, and lug-soled boots are staples that work just as well by the fire as they do during the week.
I consider it effortlessly chic. This outfit is easy to match and reflects the texture of the season. Earthy tones (rust, cream, olive) pair naturally with chunky, cozy knits. Rather than dressing to impress, it’s important to strike a balance that instantly puts you and your guests at ease.
The beauty of simple gatherings
After all, fall entertaining isn’t about elaborate menus and perfectly styled tables, it’s about slowing down, enjoying the season, and creating space to connect. With a few cozy details, simple tastes, and items that easily move from everyday life to special moments, hosting is more about being there than planning. That’s the beauty of fall gatherings. It’s a reminder that joy is often expressed in its simplest form.
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
