Anatomy of a Dinner Party: a day in the life of a hospitalityaholic
 

Thanksgiving

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Gifting Wine

Monday, November 7th, 2016

Good Morning Darlings,

Halloween is now behind us and Thanksgiving is a few weeks away. For me this means lots of dinner parties and when you are invited, I know you always want to arrive with a gift. You cannot go wrong with wine (unless, of course, your hosts are recovering alcoholics, allergic to grapes or are staunch beer drinkers who never drink wine – know your audience, darlings.)

EOD Cellars Wine is a charity wine that is made possible through a partnership with Tackitt Family Vineyards and the EOD Warrior Foundation. Profits from the wine sales go directly to the EOD Warrior Foundation, which are used to help current and past EOD warriors and their families. EOD stands for Explosive Ordnance Disposal, the disarming and disposal of bombs. EOD technicians are highly-trained military members serving in the Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force who are responsible for disarming, rendering safe and disposing bombs. The EOD profession is one of the most dangerous occupations in the military.

 

EOD Wines

EOD Wines

Over Black Friday weekend, Tackitt Family Vineyards will be offering free shipping on all of their fantastic and award winning wines, including those with the EOD Cellars label, making it even easier to give the gift of wine this holiday season. Enter ‘EOD’ for the promo code in the coupon block to get free shipping.

For those giving wine gifts this year, it’s a good idea to keep a few etiquette tips in mind, including:

  • If you are not familiar with specific taste preferences of those you are giving the wine to, it’s always best to stick with classic varieties. Giving someone a simple white or red wine is usually a safe bet.
  • Don’t expect the host to serve it that night or right when you give it to them. They may have other plans in mind, and it is your gift to them. They can stash it away and serve it when, and to whom, they wish.
  • It’s a good idea to stick a note on the bottle, letting them know you put some thought into the selection. If you are choosing an EOD Cellars Wine, for example, it’s a nice touch to write on there that you thought they would appreciate the selection and the mission.
  • You may want to give something with the wine, with good options being to consider pairing it with a good chocolate, cheese, Spanish olives, dried fruits, or almonds. Another nice option is to pair it with a special hand painted wine glass or small wine pairing book for their collection.
  • Wrapping it in a wine bag is optional, but if you choose not to use one, then it’s a nice touch to add the hand-written note and a ribbon or bow.

I love the idea of wine gifting with a purpose. Later this week, I’ll be discussing some of my favorite local Georgia wines.

Tis the season!

xoxo, Patti

Thanksgiving Appetizers – Sausage Balls

Wednesday, November 21st, 2012

Good Morning Darlings!

When I am asked to bring an appetizer to a party, sausage balls are my go-to recipe. It is ridiculously easy and they taste so good.

A couple of weekends ago, I had 3 parties to go to, so I whipped up 3 different versions of the basic recipe.

Pop in and get in the kitchen with me!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Thursday, November 24th, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

I hope you are reading this while watching the Macy’s Day Parade in your jammies and drinking hot chocolate on the couch. While someone else peels the potatoes.

What else am I thankful for?

Thanksgiving Day Dessert Ideas

Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

If you haven’t decided what to serve after Thanksgiving dinner, allow me to lend a hand.

What sounds good and what’s easy?

How Long Will It Take To Thaw?

Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

You have your perfect turkey. Now what?

How big is that bird of yours?

What About The Sides?

Saturday, November 19th, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

All kinds of emails show up in my inbox everyday. It’s sometimes hard to decipher what might be cool and what I might want to share with you.

Something worth sharing inside

Guest Snacks – Roasted Chickpeas

Friday, November 18th, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

As we move closer to next Thursday, have you considered what you might set out for your guests to nosh on before dinner?

Don’t fill up the guests before you feast!

How Many Extra Guests Are Coming?!

Thursday, November 17th, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

You are ready to go for Thanksgiving. Got your lists made, your table setting all inspired by Martha Stewart, stocked up on wine so you can tolerate your inlaws.

What else could you need?

You are going to love this!

What to Pair With That Holiday Dish?

Wednesday, November 16th, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

Today, I am letting Chef Linnea Johansson take the wheel and give us some tips on holiday entertaining! Enjoy!

What’s new with Chef Linnea?

Name That Thing – Answer

Monday, November 14th, 2011

Good Morning Darlings!

Did you name that thing last week?

Somehow I bet you did!