Starting with Halloween and ending with Christmas, the holiday season is one in which the members of ECEP, Elite Catering and Event Professionals, strut their design and culinary stuff! From decadent and moody to grateful and classic, we've round up some of the best tabletop designs, culinary inspirations and ideas from our members across the nation. Here are six holiday decor and menu ideas that are evergreen in their creativity and style.
SETTING A MOODY TABLE FOR HALLOWEEN
Proof of the Pudding in Atlanta found the perfect balance between glam and goth for this unique Halloween tabletop.
Photo: Amanda Mazonkey
A HARRY POTTER-INSPIRED THANKSGIVING TABLE
At this Harry Potter themed Thanksgiving dinner, you can almost hear Hedwig the Owl swooping in and out of The Hall at Fauntleroy. The venue, operated by Tuxedos and Tennis Shoes, the catering division of Seattle's DSquared Hospitality, was the perfect choice for this event.
Pro Tip: When doing a themed event such as this, keep the setting elegant by adding antique elements like candelabras and vintage-style glassware.
Host: The Great Surprisal | Venue: Hall at Fauntleroy | Catering: Tuxedos and Tennis Shoes Catering | Photographer: Jenn Tai & Co. | Planner: The Bubbly Soiree | Tabletop Rentals: Pedersen's Event Rentals | Florals: Bloom Poet | Decor & Rentals: Magical Moments Design | Balloon Design: Smash Baby Smash
FOUNDSGIVING: A SPIN ON A SPIN
First there was Friendsgiving. And now, thanks to 24 Carrots, based in Costa Mesa, California, there is Foundsgiving -- a play on the fact that this event was hosted by Found Rentals and used its rental items. The private home was giving a warm vibe with overhead string lights and a communal table layout.
Design, Catering: 24 Carrots Catering & Events | Photography: Studio EMP | Rentals: Found Rentals
THANKSGIVING INSPIRATION: GRATITUDE
Using dried citrus is a classic Christmas motif for garlands and décor. Here, 24 Carrots used them to bring a touch of rustic charm to a Thanksgiving table. The silk ribbon was the perfect accent to mirror the place setting.
Design, Catering and Rentals: 24 Carrots Catering & Events | Photography: Villa Visuals | Silk Textiles: Tono & Co | Florals: Lavenders Flowers
LEAVE A BOOZY HOT COCOA FOR SANTA
This wicked hot cocoa from Behind The Scenes Catering and Events in San Diego, California, is a delicious concoction of Bailey’s Irish Cream, Maker’s Mark, bittersweet chocolate cocoa, shaved dark chocolate, toasted marshmallow cream, cinnamon sticks and nutmeg. But since Santa will be busy driving Christmas Eve, this will have to wait for him until the day after the holidays!
Food, Beverage, Design: Behind the Scenes Catering and Events | Rentals: BRIGHT Event Rentals | Linens: BRIGHT Event Rentals | Photographer: Lindsay Kreighbaum Photography
HOLIDAY CHEER AND GOOD TIDINGS TO ALL!
Last by not least, we bring you good tidings and cheer from Behind the Scenes Catering and Events!
Pictured here: Pomegranate Vodka Mule made with Belvedere Vodka, Fever Tree ginger beer, Pom juice and ice. Garnish with pomegranate gems and orange slices. The other drink is a holiday martini made with Ketel One Vodka, dry vermouth, white cranberry juice, cranberry bitters, topped with a rose champagne float and garnished with fresh red currants.
Beverage and Design: Behind the Scenes Catering and Events | Rentals: BRIGHT Event Rentals | Linens: BRIGHT Event Rentals | Photographer: J Dixx Photo