Tailgate parties don't have to be all beer and hot dogs and eating off the back of a dirty car. (Of course, if you're into that, that's fine too.) If you're the type who enjoys comfort and beauty and something to eat that's prettier than a chili dog — while still enjoying the game — we've got you covered.
We've gathered ideas and inspiration for making your next tailgate party fun and also aesthetically pleasing. And no, these aren't difficult to pull off. Check out these simple tips for "glamgating" like a boss!
Image via celebrationsathomeblog.com
Chair Warmers
Especially for cold-climate tailgating, you want to be prepared to get comfy and cozy — and yet be super chic. Throw a few inexpensive Faux Sheepskins in the car to use as glam lawn-chair warmers. You won't regret it.
Tasty Hot Drinks
You're going to need a hot cuppa something out there. Forget donut-shop coffee. Take it up a notch and try out some of these delicious and warm Thermos-Friendly Recipes, with and without alcohol — whichever you prefer. Because only the most glam among us sip on Boozy Skinny Hot Chocolate at a tailgate party.
Simple Finger Foods
Typical tailgate party finger foods = rippled chips. Instead of opening a bag of those, prepare some make-ahead dishes that travel well and look great on a platter — like crowd-pleasing Deviled Eggs. Their simplicity on pretty platter is nothing if not elegant.
More from The Stir: 10 Amazing-Looking Game Day Foods With Beer in the Recipe (PHOTOS)
Faux Fur Tablecloth
Tailgates or even the backs of SUVs or minivans can be a kind of icky place to serve a meal with class. Add some luxury beneath your delicious spread by using an affordable (and washable!) Faux Fur Throw as your tablecloth. All your food will look extra pretty!
Fancy Serveware
One tip for making your spread look all the more glam is to elevate your serveware away from those basic paper blahs. Going silver or gold or even copper will add a touch of sophistication to even your simplest snacks. There are so many metallic options in nonbreakable options like wood and melamine. We love this pretty set of Gold Metal Trays. Use them again and again!
Not Dogs & Burgers
Sure, hamburgers and hot dogs are the go-to grillers for most tailgate parties, but there are many foods that are just as easy to grill — and yet feel more fancy. For example, you can easily prepare some BBQ Chicken Kebabs or sweet Fruit Kebabs instead. Make them ahead and just throw them on the portable grill when it's time to eat. Yum! Bonus: No messy condiments necessary.
Upscale Plates and Napkins
Lucky for us glamgaters, there are some really elegant nonbreakable "china" options, like these gorgeous Gold Rim Plastic Dinner Plates that resemble hand-painted china. These glittery gold foil Football Napkins also add an elegant touch.
Football Cookies
You can combine football and dessert and make it pretty. Look at these simple football sugar cookies! Use your favorite sugar cookie dough or recipe and decorate with sparkling sugar crystals or sanding sugar in football brown — or your team's colors! Serve on a fabulous tray, on your fabulous faux fur tablecloth.
More from The Stir: 10 Crowd-Pleasing Recipes for Tailgating or Game Day (PHOTOS)
Charming Decorations
Now … let's get inspired! Check out this simple but super-charming Tailgating Party put together by Kaitlin of The Every Hostess. Love her use of a tiered tray and flowers — for height! — and everything is simple and coordinated. The fun football team banner adds the perfect touch of football-loving charm.
Bar and Conversation Areas
And here we have another dose of glam and Stylish Tailgating from Chris at Celebrations at Home. Her stand-alone bar is genius and leaves plenty of room for the food at the tailgate. She set up a luxe-looking seating area with a basket of warm, pretty blankets for fellow partiers to wrap up in. Love it.
