Many are calling brunch ‘the new dinner party”.  In recent years, a cultural shift has emerged, transforming the traditional dinner party into a vibrant, relaxed gathering known as brunch. Brunch, a fusion of breakfast and lunch, has transcended its morning origins to become a favored social affair, offering a unique blend of culinary delights, leisurely ambiance, and social interaction.

Here’s why brunch has become the new dinner party and why it’s gaining momentum in today’s social scene.

1. Lifestyle Flexibility

Unlike dinner parties that typically occur in the evening, brunch offers a more flexible timing. With busy schedules and diverse commitments, people find it easier to allocate time during late mornings or early afternoons. This flexibility accommodates various lifestyles, whether it’s families with young children, professionals with demanding careers, or individuals juggling multiple commitments.

2. Culinary Diversity

Brunch menus boast a diverse array of dishes, blending breakfast favorites like eggs Benedict, pancakes, and avocado toast with heartier lunch options such as salads, sandwiches, and pastas. This culinary diversity caters to different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table. Moreover, the relaxed atmosphere of brunch encourages experimentation with creative and unconventional recipes, making it an exciting culinary experience.

3. Social Atmosphere

Brunch fosters a convivial atmosphere conducive to socializing and bonding. Unlike formal dinner parties, which may carry an air of sophistication and etiquette, brunch gatherings exude a laid-back vibe, encouraging guests to unwind, engage in meaningful conversations, and forge connections. Whether it’s catching up with friends, networking with colleagues, or celebrating special occasions, brunch provides an ideal setting for fostering relationships in a casual yet intimate environment.

4. Daylight Setting

One of the distinguishing features of brunch is its daylight setting, which adds a refreshing dimension to social gatherings. Unlike dinner parties that often take place under artificial lighting, brunch allows guests to bask in natural sunlight, creating a cheerful and uplifting ambiance. This daytime setting not only enhances the mood but also offers opportunities for outdoor brunches, whether it’s in a garden, patio, or rooftop terrace, amplifying the sensory experience and fostering a deeper connection with nature.

5. Versatility in Beverages

Brunch wouldn’t be complete without its signature beverages, ranging from classic mimosas and Bloody Marys to artisanal coffee blends and herbal teas. The versatility in beverage options adds an element of indulgence and sophistication to the brunch experience, allowing guests to customize their drinks according to their preferences. Additionally, brunch presents an opportunity to explore creative cocktail concoctions and non-alcoholic alternatives, catering to diverse tastes and enhancing the overall dining experience.

6. Embrace of Informality

In a world where formality often prevails, brunch celebrates informality and relaxation. Guests can dress comfortably, eschewing formal attire in favor of casual chic or even loungewear. This relaxed dress code sets the tone for a laid-back gathering where guests can let their guard down, be themselves, and enjoy the company of others without pretense or formality.

7. Special Occasion Brunches

BRIDAL BRUNCHES & BABY SHOWERS are moving away from old-school “luncheons” and moving towards an elevated brunch party. Even bachelorette weekend itineraries often include a brunch or two! (Time to celebrate the bride or mom-to-be! 187ml mini bottles of blanc de blancs or brut rosé are a crowd pleaser as place settings, for mimosa mixing, or as the perfect takeaway favor for guests!)

In conclusion, brunch has emerged as the new dinner party, offering a delightful fusion of culinary delights, social interaction, and leisurely ambiance. With its lifestyle flexibility, culinary diversity, social atmosphere, daylight setting, versatile beverages, and embrace of informality, brunch has captured the hearts and palates of individuals seeking meaningful connections and memorable experiences. So, the next time you plan a social gathering, consider hosting a brunch—it’s a trend that’s here to stay.

3 Tips For Bubbly Brunch Party Entertaining

​​1. Use Our Brunch Guide: BEST BRUNCH FOR HOME ENTERTAINING + BRUNCH INSPIRATION BOOK

Brunch is one of the ultimate entertaining options as it’s leisurely, festive and replete with sweet and savory treats and offers the opportunity to be a little whimsical.  It’s an event more than just a meal and has become a cultural phenomenon with its own branded special dishes and cocktails like the famed Bloody Mary and Mimosa.  Elevate your brunching and consider some fun alternatives to add a few twists – and a lot of personalities – to everyone’s favorite weekend tradition!

For an array of ideas, download our Brunch Ideas Booklet for loads of brunch party food, brunch inspired cocktail recipes, and sparkling wine brunch pairings.

2. Brunch Cocktail Station: HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN MIMOSA BAR

A fairly easy, but impactful way to impress your guests is to do a mimosa bar or a build-your-own concept- made even easier with our mimosa kit: a budget friendly build your own mimosa bar kit under $50! (makes a great brunch hostess wine gift too!)

Give guests a flight of juices, a bottle of sparkling wine (classic brut or brut rosé) & fresh fruit for garnishes so they can craft the perfect mimosa according to their tastes! This makes a memorable, visual impression and is great for mingling and conversation.

3. Mix It Up Seasonally: BEST MIMOSA RECIPES BY SEASON

But first: what is the best champagne or sparkling wine for making Mimosas?

First, you might ask, what’s the difference between sparkling wine and champagne… here are a couple of facts to provide some insights:

1. Sparkling wine can only be called Champagne if it comes from the region of Champagne, France which is located just outside of Paris.
2. Furthermore, Champagne can only be made using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.
3. To clarify, all Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne. We really should think of Champagne in terms of a geographical location as opposed to a winemaking style.

So what type of sparkling wine is best for your brunch mimosas?

There are a few things to consider when choosing the best sparkling wine for mimosas and other sparkling wine cocktails. Read our thoughts here.

For more champagne and sparkling cocktails, brunch inspiration, top food pairings, and elegant entertaining ideas browse our curated blogs and follow along on Pinterest!

Elevate the Traditional mimosa and move beyond the classic Orange Juice and sparkling wine mimosa recipe… consider changing up the mimosa juices for your brunch sparkling cocktails seasonally, such as:

FALL & WINTER MIMOSAS

Apple Cider Mimosa

Pomegranate Mimosa

Cranberry Mimosa

SPRING MIMOSAS

Pink Grapefruit Mimosa

Blood Orange Mimosa

Strawberry Mimosa

SUMMER MIMOSAS

Peach Mimosa

Watermelon Mimosa

Mango Mimosa

Pineapple Mimosa Recipe by Caroline’s Cooking

In conclusion, the addition of sparkling wine or champagne to brunch not only enhances the dining experience but also elevates the overall atmosphere, making it the perfect alternative to traditional dinner parties. Its association with celebration, versatility in pairing options, daytime elegance, ability to enhance social interaction, and role in elevating the brunch experience all contribute to its allure. So, the next time you gather with friends or family for brunch, consider uncorking a bottle of bubbly—it’s sure to make the occasion memorable and magnificent.