Host a French Brunch this Spring
As the sun starts to shine brighter and flowers bloom, there’s no better way to welcome the arrival of spring than with a delightful French brunch. Spring is a season of renewal and freshness, and French cuisine captures this essence perfectly with its elegant simplicity and seasonal ingredients.
French Decor for a Spring Brunch
Creating the perfect ambiance for your French-inspired brunch begins with the decor.
Start by setting a table adorned with linen place mats and your prettiest china. I have a favorite set that I always use for gatherings with friends and family.
If you have pretty glassware, whether it’s crystal or not, make sure to bring that out as well.
If you can, try to incorporate pastel colors such as soft pinks, blues, and greens to evoke the feeling of a spring garden.
I have a set of green toile plates, and I usually like to complement those with a centerpiece of pink ranunculus or peonies and green hydrangea. You could easily use tulips as well for another spring favorite.
Flickering candles or fairy lights can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, even during the day, and can be placed down the center of your table.
Don’t forget to also play soft French music in the background to complete the scene and French vibes. I have a favorite playlist here.
French Brunch Menu
No French-inspired brunch would be complete without a delectable menu of classic dishes and seasonal flavors.
Start with a selection of light and refreshing starters, such as a French cheese platter featuring assorted cheeses, sliced baguette, and fresh fruit.
For the main course, consider serving up traditional favorites like quiche Lorraine or an asparagus tart.
You can serve some sweet options too like a berry swiss roll cake, a triple berry swirl bread, strawberry cream croissants, or this croissant bread pudding made with strawberries instead of peaches.
If you’re really ambitious, you could even make your own homemade croissants! Otherwise, serving a basket of freshly baked, bakery croissants and pastries is wonderful too.
Complement these dishes with savory sides like a mixed green salad tossed in a tangy Dijon vinaigrette and a French potato salad with fresh herbs.
And no French brunch would be complete without beverages like mimosas made with champagne and freshly squeezed orange juice, sparkling water with a splash of grenadine, or French press coffee served with cream and sugar.
Activities for Your French Brunch
To keep the conversation flowing and the atmosphere lively, consider incorporating some French-themed activities into your brunch.
Set up a game of Pétanque (French boules) in the backyard or a nearby park. You can order a set here.
Alternatively, host a trivia quiz about French culture and cuisine, testing your guests’ knowledge while they sip on mimosas and enjoy the delicious spread. This site has some great trivia questions.
For a hands-on activity, provide materials for DIY flower arranging and let your guests create their own small bouquets to take home as a memento of the day.
Hosting a French brunch is a delightful way to embrace the beauty of spring and indulge in the elegance of French cuisine. By incorporating charming decor, a mouthwatering menu, and engaging activities, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.