We’re all excited about enjoying Labor Day weekend! But if you’re not up for a traditional Labor Day backyard barbecue, celebrate the holiday weekend and the continuing summer season with a colorful, elegant brunch. Here are some great ideas:

Your table—Rely on nature for gorgeous decorations. Get a bright bouquet and place flowers in small vases or glasses around the table. Or take potted flowers and group them in a large basket.

Don’t forget to include lovely fruits. You can easily put together a beautiful centerpiece or tablescape with flowers plus oranges, limes, or lemons. See more great ideas on decorating with flowers and fruit from Steven Buckwald, owner of Surrounding Flowers & Events

Brunch menu—Of course, include fruit in the menu, as well. And use fruit to garnish your dishes.

Here’s a complete brunch menu, including crowd-pleasing make-ahead recipes.

Cocktails—Give your brunch a special touch by creating a signature champagne-based cocktail. It’s easy. Simply add champagne or lower-cost Prosecco to the fruit liqueur of your choice. Check out this easy guide and our delicious flavor choices.

If you prefer classic brunch cocktails, here are a few basic recipes courtesy of top event planner Colin Cowie:

• Mimosa: Top freshly squeezed orange juice with Champagne or sparkling wine. Use blood oranges when they’re in season.
• Bellini: Top fresh peach juice with Champagne or Asti Spumante. For best results, use white peaches in season.
• Bloody Mary: Add a shot of vodka to good tomato juice and dress it up with Tabasco, horseradish, salt, pepper and a celery stick.

For more great party planning ideas, check Colin Cowie’s expert advice in his “How-to Tips from the Experts” feature.

Filed under: Entertaining, Family, Fun party ideas, Holidays, Party decor