Party to Warm the House

What a busy weekend!

NH and I have been planning a party in our new house for the past month and it finally took place this weekend. Not too fond of the term 'housewarming,' but that's what it was. We sent invitations by mail to our family, friends, and neighbors, and planned a menu for cocktails in the afternoon from 4:00-6:30. Our first try as hosts in our new home was a success, good practice for the New Years Eve party we hope to have every year.

I did a lot of prep in the days before so that I wouldn't be stressed out on Saturday. The day was busy but never scrambling, so it turned out nicely. NH was in charge of the drinks and he set up a beautiful table in my workout room. I wish I had a picture but we didn't snap one.
Here are a few pictures making the goat cheese and onion tartlets on Saturday morning.






























I won't post any recipes today, but here is a list of the foods I made along with a few photos.

Goat Cheese and Onion Tartlets
Spiced Walnuts, Hazelnuts, and Almonds
Pain de Mie bread
Roasted baby carrots
Pear and Plum Chutney
Mini Mascarpone Cupcakes with Nutella frosting

Besides the homemade foods we had some delicious storebought hors d'ouerves. Here's what we had, along with some beautiful pictures of the table laid out and ready.





Prosciutto, Lox, and Salami
Greek olives, hearts of palm, Artichoke hearts
Trader Joe's Mini-toasts
cheeses: D'Affinois Brie, Gorgonzola Dolce, Saenkanter Gouda
Red and Muscat grapes, Apples
Cherry Tomatoes

These mini-cupcakes were popular, I've made this recipe once before and had great reviews. I decided on a simple frosting of Nutella to save myself some time and they were delicious. I love bite-sized desserts.






















My Favorite Bite at the Party:
Gorgonzola Dolce with Pear and Plum Chutney on a chunk of Pain de Mie