Fireside Cocktail Party

Getting your deck party ready is as simple as bringing the indoors out. Lay out a rug, top benches with fluffy pillows, and drape plenty of blankets for cozy evening cuddling. A blazing fire brings the whole party together.

Moroccan tea glasses serve as vases for blazing fall arrangements. Stick to in-season colors like rich reds, yellows, and oranges.

Erin's Entertaining Tip: Go for a mix of purchased flowers and from-the-yard foliage. It's the best way to showcase the natural beauty of fall.

Cozy up to the fire with comfy blankets and a warming bourbon-spiked cocktail.

Erin's Entertaining Tip: There are two fire-pit musts: Keep it covered, and be sure to have an extinguisher close by.

Skip the silverware and plates -- a DIY endive bar is a delicious (and easy!) way to feed guests. We love a combination of butternut, ricotta, and thyme, or Gorgonzola, sunflower seeds, and onion.

Erin's Entertaining Tip: Keep your party food on trays for moveable feasting. As party-goers hang out by the fire, no one has to get up to refill their plates!

This super simple appetizer comes together in an instant. A pinch of smoked paprika gives it bold flavor.

Erin's Entertaining Tip: Mix up this whole batch in a plastic bag, shake, and serve. It's that easy -- and cleanup is a snap.

This warm spiked drink hits the spot as the sun goes down. To make, simply fill your slow cooker with a totally seasonal blend of pear nectar, bourbon, and cinnamon.  

Erin's Entertaining Tip: Set out mugs and a ladle so guests can help themselves. Gorgeous garnishes like cinnamon sticks, pear slices, and star anise let guests customize each glass.

No need for over-the-top desserts at this boho-chic party. Chocolates and caramels are easy-grab nibbles.

Erin's Entertaining Tip: Set a mini flower arrangement in the center of a plate and surround it with a pile of candy.

"I like to keep things simple and self-serve so I can enjoy my guests," says Erin. She, a California foodie, photographer, and artist, is the blogger behind The Forest Feast.