Merry & Bright: A Holiday-Inspired Uncorked at Home
The most magical time of year is here, and whether you’re decking the halls with loved ones or keeping it low-key with cozy nights in, there’s no wrong way to celebrate the season. As event planners, we know this time of year can be hectic—but we also believe it’s the perfect opportunity to create moments that matter. From intimate gatherings to festive soirées, we’re here to help you craft the ultimate holiday experience.
For our December Uncorked at Home, we’ve put together a fun and stress-free guide to celebrating. With an easy dinner recipe, festive drink ideas, and holiday movie picks, you can host a memorable night without the holiday overwhelm. Whether you're planning a date night, a girls' night, or a family evening, we’ve got the perfect pairings for every occasion.
Let’s make this season merry, bright, and delicious!
Dinner Menu: Holiday Sheet Pan Gnocchi
This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or fresh)
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1 cup diced butternut squash (or sweet potato)
1 cup broccoli florets
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
Toss gnocchi, cherry tomatoes, butternut squash, and broccoli in olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on the sheet pan.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until veggies are tender and gnocchi is golden.
Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Yule Love These: Festive Movies for Every Gathering
For Date Night:
The Holiday – Romance and holiday charm set in stunning English and L.A. backdrops.
Love Actually – A classic with intertwining stories of love, laughter, and a little heartbreak.
For Girls’ Night:
Elf – Laughs, festive cheer, and endless quotable moments.
The Princess Switch – A lighthearted and whimsical Christmas adventure.
For Family Night:
Home Alone – Timeless holiday antics everyone loves.
The Polar Express – A magical journey to the North Pole with breathtaking animation.
Sparkling Cranberry Spritz
4 oz prosecco
2 oz cranberry juice
1 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau)
Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprig for garnish
Combine prosecco, cranberry juice, and orange liqueur in a flute glass. Stir gently and garnish with cranberries and rosemary.
Spiced Rum Eggnog
1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
1 oz spiced rum
Dash of nutmeg and cinnamon
Whipped cream for topping
Mix eggnog and rum in a glass. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
(Non-Alcoholic)
1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tbsp sugar
1/4 tsp peppermint extract
Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish
Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and candy cane pieces.
Shop these holiday must-haves!
December is a time to savor—whether your calendar is bursting with holiday parties or you’re planning a few quiet nights by the fire. As the season’s sparkle fills the air, it’s the perfect moment to light some candles, turn on your favorite holiday playlist, and gather around the table with good food and even better company. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones, hosting friends for a festive gathering, or simply unwinding after a long day, take a moment to savor every sip and every memory made.
From festive films to cozy cocktails, make this season one to remember. Cheers to making your December merry and bright, one uncorked moment at a time!