Your Guide to Hosting the Chicest Game Day Party

The new Sunday afternoon pre-party isn't tailgate, it's a brunchgate. We partnered with Smirnoff Ice® on this post to show you how to take your weekly football fete to the next level.

Even if you aren't able to hit the lot at the next big game, you can create a brunchgating spread that's ready for your favorite sport — while being so chic. Bonus: this whole menu travels well, making it a fun twist on the typical tailgating eats. Along with some of our favorite recipes, we have tips and tricks for making any game day party a big touchdown. Source: Shutterstsock

Make Ahead

Make Ahead

Cut the stress and make as many of your brunchgating menu items before your guests arrive. A classic dish at any morning gathering, quiche also tastes delicious the day after it's been baked. Simply rewarm in the oven or serve at room temperature. And the same goes for coffee cake, cinnamon rolls, or blueberry muffins.

Serve Drool-Worthy Foods

Serve Drool-Worthy Foods

Entice your guests with foods that look absolutely delicious, inviting them in for a morning of brunchgating. But cheering for the team doesn't have to include high-carb and calorie foods! Keep things light with this collection of appetizers that are indulgent without the guilt. Source: Lizzie Fuhr

Upgrade Store-Bought Sides

Upgrade Store-Bought Sides

Take it easy on yourself by using store-bought sides that can look like you slaved away for hours over a hot stove with topping ideas. Elevate hummus with pine nuts and olive oil, top salsa with freshly chopped cucumber, or sprinkle fresh herbs over spinach dip. Source: Nicole Perry

DIY Cheese Plate

DIY Cheese Plate

Nothing makes a chic statement like a cheese plate — and putting one together on your own is really so simple. After taking into consideration a few things, like the right pairing of cheeses and sides, you can put one together that looks like you just unwrapped it. Source: Anna Monette Roberts

Know Your Grilling Techniques

Know Your Grilling Techniques

From tossing dogs on the grill to mastering flaky yet moist salmon steaks, check out this helpful guid for understanding the wonders of barbecue. Source: Nicole Perry

Pick Easy Proteins

Pick Easy Proteins

The last thing you want to do while brunchgating is spend the entire time slaving over the grill. Now that you totally understand grilling techniques (right?) select proteins to feature that cook quickly — without concern of undercooking. This easy recipe for Buffalo shrimp is a fun option, filled with the flavor of sticky wings but without the mess. Source: Sarah Lipoff

Go With Veggies

Go With Veggies

Keep things light by featuring vegetables instead of heavy meats, like these grilled portobello burgers. Cut in half for easy finger-food eating or serve as is for a light brunchgating. Source: Sarah Lipoff

Easy Sweets

Easy Sweets

Pick up a box of basic brownie mix, or check out our favorite recipe, for brownies that travel anywhere. But you can take those sweet squares of heaven to a whole to level by mixing in delicious ingredients that personalize your treats — and take the stress out of brunchgating. Source: Nicole Perry

Pack it Right

Pack it Right

If you're actually heading to the game for your brunchgating event, know how to pack your cooler right. And even if you're sticking close to home, stocking your ice chest the right way keeps drinks cooler and foods safe. Source: Flickr user Rubbermaid

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