A casual brunch doesn't call for any extraordinarily fancy invitations; although, it's always a lovely gesture if you want to put in a little extra effort. Lazies like me use email, eVites, and phone calls, while Martha-enthusiasts might take an extra step and create little, leaf-shaped invitations that actually travel via snail-mail. I revel in the easiness of a casual get-together, but feel free to make the event as special as you'd like. I'd give at least a week's notice, so people can plan their weekend accordingly.
Setting Up
We scooped up a lovely wooden patio table with folding legs last spring, and it has heartily served us well. But there's no need to go out and buy expensive patio furniture if you don't have the space or budget for it. Before we got our table, we used an old door we found in our garage and laid it across a couple of carpenter's sawhorses. Folding lawn chairs are a convenient way to seat, but if you don't have them, you might be able to bring out your chairs from inside the house. Tablecloths are a really easy way to add a bit of panache to your outdoor eating area, so if you've got one you love, use it. If you don't, a simple flat white bedsheet is my favorite snazzy substitute.
Decor
No need to get all-frills with décor when everything else is laid back and casual. I'd just take a potted plant from my back patio and pop it on the table. We have lots of nice, potted herbs that I think look really striking on their own. Keep it simple. Outdoor eating is beautiful even without extra adornment.
Food and Drink
Light and easy, easy like Sunday morning....(thanks to Lionel Richie for that fun line). Make ahead what you can or have guests bring a dish if you'd like. Since we have makeshift breakfasts/brunches every weekend we possibly can, we sometimes resort to good old basics: fresh fruit, crusty breads, butter and jams, cheeses, coffee, even cereal. I find impromptu meals sometimes are more fun and certainly much less on the effort/stress front.
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