It’s October! Fall has been here for a week, so it’s definitely time to venture into the attic for sweaters and jackets and wool socks (I’m sure we’ll have a few more scorching hot days as soon as I put our sandals and shorts away). This is my favorite time of year (although, I think I always say that at Spring, too). Not only do I get to layer my clothes and wear fuzzy socks 90% of the time, but we also get all the comforts of rustic fall cooking…roasted root vegetables, soups, stews, pumpkin spice lattes, etc. I know everyone is talking about fall food right now, so I’m sorry….it’s just too exciting! Melinda and I have been busy planning out the menu details for our upcoming retreat, The Alchemy of Hospitality, and let me tell you……if you’re attending, GET READY for some killer menus!

These photos are from a shoot I styled for Edible DC last fall, with photography by the amazing Kate Headley. We gathered at a stunning historic home in Upperville, VA for a late fall feast. The menu was the real star of this table, I merely prepared the canvas for Chef Brad Walker’s masterpieces. You can get all the recipes (flounder with blood orange beurre blanc, whole foie gras, red cabbage with butternut squash and caraway seeds, lard pie crust, and warm gin sling) at Edible DC.

It’s currently cold & raining outside, but thankfully, we still have plenty of time to dine al fresco before it’s too chilly. Especially if we light a small campfire to warm our fingers and toes. I’ll be hosting at least one more front yard potluck before it’s too late…who’s coming?

Photography by Kate Headley for Edible DC, Styling by Rebecca Gallop