Just because it’s the middle of winter and you’re stuck entertaining in the city doesn’t mean you can’t let your guests in on that great, laid-back cottagey vibe—just follow these easy tips.
Break out the vintage
Even if your summer space has been modernized, there’s something about mismatched dishes, crocheted throw blankets, and Mason jars that scream “cottage” to just about everyone. Serve cold drinks in jars and hot ones in diner-style mugs like these, and you’ll be on your way to cottage bliss.
Get your roasted marshmallow fix—the grown-up way
Yeah, roasted marshmallows are awesome, but at an adult holiday party, you can give the classic childhood treat a whole new character by turning them into shot glasses. Yup, you heard us—roasted marshmallow shot glasses. Jell-o shots just met their match.
Build a winter campfire
If your local bylaws allow it, build a cozy campfire outside. Yes, making a fire in the snow takes a little preparation, but the combination of flickering firelight and snappy cold makes it so worth it—and it’s the perfect setting for stargazing.
Use natural materials to decorate your space
Natural materials like pine boughs and birch bark will add a touch of wilderness to your home. Try painting branches white and putting them in a glass vase with some smooth river rocks for a striking table decoration. Or use pinecones to make everything from owls to snowflakes.
Cook over an open fire
If you’ve got a fireplace, break out the hot dogs, buns and long toasting forks, and settle down on the floor for a picnic. No fireplace? Bundle up and recreate a classic summer barbecue, complete with coleslaw, burgers, and your drink of choice.
Play some classic board games
Everyone has that centuries-old Monopoly game at the cottage. For some cottage-themed entertainment, break out classic board games like Yahtzee, cribbage or, yes, Monopoly. If you’ve got a lot of guests, set up multiple tables with multiple games so everyone can join in.
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