Creating the Perfect Potluck Gathering

Planning a Fall Fete or just interested in doing more entertaining at home? A potluck gathering might just be the answer for you. Learn why I recommend hosting one and all my advice on my latest article for Inspired Home.

Here are a few images to inspire you …

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KF - IHA Potluck Dinner Staub_ LeCreuset_ HamptonForge_ LodgeCastIron_ Architec_ 3 1000

I love to entertain at home. It is one of my true pleasures in life. I am energized by the planning, the inviting, menu creation, deciding what plates and napkins to use, picking out the perfect flowers to place on the table and what music should be playing in the background – I love all of it. But so often I hear friends tell me how the very idea of hosting a gathering at their home sends a wave of panic straight through them stopping the gathering before it even gets started. Trying to do it all can be overwhelming. My best advice – host a potluck gathering. Getting your guests involved in the preparation and cooking of the meal can help alleviate some of the pressure you may feel and allow you to have more time for aspects you actually find fun about entertaining at home.

KF - IHA Potluck Dinner Staub_ LeCreuset_ HamptonForge_ LodgeCastIron_ Architec_ 4 1000

Other words of advice to ensure a smooth potluck party: set the table with neutrals. Most likely you will not be able to control what color your friends platters and serveware will be, so don’t try to! By starting with a neutral base of plates, napkins and flowers, you create a welcoming neutral palette for any color or patterned plate that may arrive.

KF - IHA Potluck Dinner Staub_ LeCreuset_ HamptonForge_ LodgeCastIron_ Architec_ 7 1000

KF - IHA Potluck Dinner Staub_ LeCreuset_ HamptonForge_ LodgeCastIron_ Architec_ 8 1000

KF - IHA Potluck Dinner Staub_ LeCreuset_ HamptonForge_ LodgeCastIron_ Architec_ 9 1000

Once you have your table planned out, I always recommend the host make a main dish. It doesn’t need to be too elaborate or take too much prep work, however, Buttermilk Chicken {recipe coming soon} is a great dish that can be cooked the night before and is sure to be a crowd pleaser both aesthetically and to the taste buds. I also like to provide a bread or muffin type starch along with the main dish and this year I have been obsessed with Cast Iron Cornbread + Poblano Corn Sticks.

LEARN ALL MY TIPS FOR PLANNING THE PERFECT POTLUCK PARTY HERE

Disclosure: I have been selected by the International Housewares Association to be a contributor for Inspired Home. While I have been compensated for my time, my opinions, recipes, photography, reviews and ideas are my own.

 

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And, if you are looking for even more ways to celebrate everyday check out An Appealing Plan the book.

Call it a trend or a return to the past, but I believe we are bringing back entertaining at home, lingering over a table after a lovingly prepared meal with friends. It has been a way of life and passion of mine my entire adult life, and I am thrilled to be able to invite you on this journey with me through a year of celebrating every day. Filled with recipes, tablescapes, floral inspiration and seasonal entertaining ideas An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations, is a dream come true for me a true honor to be able to share it with you. To learn more about An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations here. And of course, share how you are celebrating everyday.

20 Replies to “Creating the Perfect Potluck Gathering”

  1. I love to entertain, too, but haven’t done it in some time now. My husband and I used to have a big Christmas open house for all his co-workers and a huge family July 4 party every year with smaller celebrations sprinkled throughout the other months. I particularly like your idea of keeping the linens and tableware neutral for a potluck. Very smart!

  2. Krayl,
    I’m one of those panic-y types. But I’m powering through! After hearing about all the salsas I’ve been putting up this summer, my friend suggested I host a salsa party.

    I LOVE this idea! I’ll supply a few and a starter pitcher of Cheater Margaritas, and ask others to bring snacks/drinks. I’ve set the date–now all I have to do is check out your tips and clean the house!

    Thanks!

  3. Potlucks are a great way to host a party, while taking some of the pressure off of the host. It’s been a long time since I’ve hosted a potluck, but autumn seems like the perfect time to do it.

  4. Such great tips, Krayl! I also love to host gatherings and you’re right, it can all be overwhelming. It’s a fun way to get others to help out when you make it a potluck. That’s usually how my big Italian parties are!:)

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