Brunch is a wonderful way to fellowship with other believers and extend hospitality, whether you’re welcoming new members at church, gathering women for meaningful conversation, or celebrating special occasions like Mother’s Day.
If you love the idea of hosting but aren’t sure what to serve, these fun brunch ideas will help you create a beautiful, stress-free gathering that brings people together around the table.
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The Living Table
I just recently read the devotional The Living Table by Abby Turner and loved it so much.
It teaches the importance of the table and the role it should play in our lives as Christians. She describes the table as the single most important piece of furniture we have and the various ways that we should use it: to connect with others, to teach the Word of God, to serve people, to host parties, to welcome guests, and to celebrate life. Who knew?! I don’t even have a kitchen table in my tiny apartment, but now I think I had better make room.
She also teaches that we are to be a balance of Martha and Mary, both keeping the home as Martha did and encouraging guests as Mary did. One way to do this is by inviting others to your table. God wants us to live in fellowship with other believers, and your table is a great place to do this. Jesus wants us to invite people to learn about His love for them. Welcome people over and begin building relationships with them.
How to Host a Brunch
- Choose a day and time, traditionally Saturday or Sunday at 10:00 AM.
- Make a guest list and send invitations about a couple of weeks in advance.
- Request an RSVP so you know how many people to expect. Call those you haven’t heard from to find out if they are coming.
- Choose a theme, if you’d like
- Plan your Menu
- Pick a color palette
- Make a list of everything you need to purchase, rent, or borrow (including ingredients and decorations)
- Make place cards for your guests, if you’d like, and put them in small frames that they can take home as gifts.
- Set the table the night before. Set out trivets where you will want to place the casserole dishes.
- Add a few well-placed floral arrangements.
Fun Brunch Theme Suggestions
Brunch is a beautiful way to gather with friends, celebrate special occasions, and extend hospitality in meaningful ways. Whether you’re hosting a small group from church, celebrating a holiday, or simply opening your home for fellowship, a themed brunch can make the experience feel intentional and welcoming.
Below are some fun and creative brunch theme ideas, along with simple menu and tablescape suggestions to help you host with ease — no matter the season.
GARDEN BRUNCH
A garden brunch is perfect for spring and summer gatherings when the weather invites you outdoors.
Whether you’re hosting on a patio, deck, or even setting up a table on the lawn, this theme creates a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that’s ideal for fellowship, conversation, and lingering at the table.
For a garden-themed brunch, consider serving a mix of fresh, comforting dishes such as:
- Spinach and Bacon Hash Brown Quiche
- Chicken and Waffle Sliders
- A Fresh Fruit Board with Whipped Ricotta
- Strawberries and Cream Scones
- Tea and fresh squeezed fruit juices
Pictured: Garden Blooms tablescape from Kate Aspen — matching paper products in a sweet spring floral design that make it easy to host a beautiful brunch without overcomplicating your setup.
To complete the look, flowy dresses, soft florals, and light layers are perfect for a garden brunch.
👉🏽 Shop looks to wear to a garden-themed brunch below:
MUFFIN TIN BRUNCH
Fall marks the start of baking season, making it the perfect time to host a muffin tin brunch where everything is prepared in easy, individual portions. This type of brunch is ideal for casual gatherings, potlucks, or hosting without spending the entire morning in the kitchen.
For a muffin tin brunch, consider serving:
- Sausage Egg & Cheese Breakfast Tots
- Oatmeal Cups Topped with Yogurt and Fresh Fruit
- A variety of muffins, such as: Healthy Banana Muffins, Cranberry Orange Rosemary Muffins, and Maple Bacon Corn Muffins
- Tea, coffee, and fresh squeezed fruit juices
Pictured: Autumn Bouquet Table Setting from Sophistiplate — a warm, seasonal tablescape that adds a festive touch to fall gatherings.
Sweater dresses are a cozy and stylish choice for a fall brunch, offering both comfort and polish. Shirt dresses in autumn colors and prints also work beautifully. Tip: Short sweater dresses can easily be worn as tunic tops with leggings.
👉🏽 Shop fall brunch looks below:
PAJAMA BRUNCH
A pajama brunch is a cozy and relaxed way to gather, and while it works any time of year, winter is especially fitting thanks to warmer fabrics, layered sleepwear, and cozy footwear. This theme is perfect for slow mornings, meaningful conversation, and enjoying comfort food together.
Traditional breakfast favorites work best for a pajama brunch. Consider serving:
Pictured: Mimosa Table Setting from Sophistiplate — a playful yet polished option that adds a special touch to a casual pajama brunch.
Soft pajamas, matching sets, and cozy slippers make this theme both comfortable and fun.
👉🏽 Shop looks to wear to a pajama-themed brunch below:
INTERNATIONAL BRUNCH
An international brunch works beautifully any time of year, but summer is especially fitting when fresh ingredients and relaxed gatherings invite a mix of global flavors. This theme is a fun way to celebrate different cultures while offering a little something for everyone at the table.
For an international-inspired brunch, consider serving:
🇧🇪Belgian Waffles topped with…
🇨🇦Maple Syrup
🏴Mixed Berry Scones with Lemon Glaze
🇫🇷Pastries such as eclairs and croissants
Pictured: Everyday Scarlet Table Setting from Sophistiplate — a bold yet versatile tablescape that pairs well with a globally inspired menu.
When it comes to hosting or attending an international themed, I would go with bold patterns when it comes to my wardrobe suggestions. Again, I recommend wearing short dresses as tops. Shop looks to wear to an international themed brunch:
COFFEE & DONUT BAR
A coffee and donut bar is one of the simplest brunch themes to host, making it especially appealing during the cooler months when cozy flavors and warm drinks take center stage. You can keep it effortless by picking up donuts from a local bakery, or make it more personal by serving a mix of homemade baked donuts.
If you enjoy baking, consider offering a variety such as:
Pictured: Eco White & Gold Table Setting from Sophistiplate — a clean, modern tablescape that works beautifully for a coffee-focused brunch.
To complete the bar, offer a small selection of coffee drinks guests can customize themselves:
When it comes to what to wear, casual-chic outfits work best for a coffee and donut brunch. Think cozy sweaters, relaxed cardigans, jeans or leggings, and comfortable flats or ankle boots — polished enough to host, but comfortable enough to linger with a warm cup of coffee.
👉🏽 Shop brunch looks below:
FONDUE BRUNCH
A fondue brunch is playful, interactive, and perfect for any time of year. The beauty of this theme is that you can customize it to suit your favorite flavors — sweet or savory — and serve bite-sized portions that are both fun and easy to eat.
Some fondue ideas to try:
- Spicy queso dip: Serve with chorizo frittata rolled in tortillas for dipping
- Maple syrup: Pair with French toast sticks, waffle fingers, or pancake bites
- Sausage gravy: Dip breakfast sausage meatballs, tater tots, or mini biscuits
- Chocolate: Cube croissants, donut holes, and fresh fruit for a sweet ending
Tip: Set up small pots or mini fondue stations for each flavor to keep things organized and festive.
For table décor, consider simple, functional pieces that match your style — small serving pots, cute dipping utensils, and a neutral or seasonal table runner can make it feel intentional without overcomplicating the setup.
As for fashion, the best approach is seasonal and comfortable:
- Cozy sweaters and leggings in fall/winter
- Light dresses or casual chic separates in spring/summer
- Footwear that’s practical for standing and mingling (flats or low boots)
👉🏽 Shop brunch looks below:
What to Serve
What you choose to serve for brunch will depend on the theme you select, but most successful brunch menus follow a simple formula. Aim to include one egg dish, one hearty option, something fresh or lightly sweet (like fruit or pastries), and a selection of drinks.
A classic brunch spread usually includes coffee, tea, fresh-squeezed juices, and either cocktails or mocktails. And let’s be honest — it never hurts to find a place for bacon somewhere on the menu.
Use the categories below to mix and match dishes that work beautifully with any brunch theme.
Christmas Brunch
Set a festive Christmas table the night before, then enjoy a relaxed and joyful brunch the next morning after opening gifts. A Christmas brunch is a wonderful way to gather family together without spending hours in the kitchen.
Choose dishes that can be made ahead, like Bacon Cheese Quiche, or recipes that come together quickly, such as Gingerbread pancakes. For a special holiday treat, 1 Hour Vegan Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls.
Nothing completes a cozy Christmas morning brunch like festive PJs. Here are some of our favorites:
👉🏽 Shop Christmas PJs below:
Have you ever hosted a brunch? Which brunch theme is your favorite, or what tips would you add for a successful gathering? Would you rather host at home or enjoy brunch at a restaurant? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Until next time — happy hosting! 😋🍴🥞
Need more brunch inspiration? Check out my Pinterest boards for creative brunch themes and recipes!
Pin it!
Some theme inspiration originally sparked while browsing hosting ideas on The Spruce and Martha Stewart.
I love how thorough the list is! Pajama brunch sounds like so much fun ❤❤❤
Thank you! And yes, that sounds like a fun one. 😊
Such a fun post! Love the brunch ideas!
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it! 😊
Oh my gosh I love brunch!! I wanted to host one for my 21st but because of Covid I don’t think I’ll be able to. Love this post though, thank you for sharing!
Covid has ruined so many things. You are welcome. Hopefully, you will get to host a brunch soon. 🙏🏽
I absolutely love brunch! These are such fun ideas for hosting brunch for friends or family. I love your ideas of picking a color palette and putting out floral arrangements. Thank you for the inspiration.
Thank you! I really enjoy brunch, too. It is a special treat. You are welcome; I am so glad you were inspired! 😊
This is such a fun idea! Especially with a cute colour palette! Love connecting with people this way.
Yes, choosing a color palette is inspired! 😊
Ooooh I love me a good brunch! My friends and I often do a Sunday potluck style brunch during football season. We live in Hawaii, so the early games start at 7AM! So brunch and mimosas it is.
I am still getting used to college games starting at 9AM, here in L.A., and brunch is always a part of the game watch parties. It is a great meal for that. 😊
I love these brunch ideas, Robyn! Very creative and makes me want to host some ladies =) Thank you for sharing!
I am glad that you are inspired to host some ladies. I am, too! Thank you. 😊
Sold! I love brunch so all these ideas are great and will be put to good use in the near future! Not gonna lie, I prefer to be on the eating and not cooking end but these ideas are very motivating 🙂
Yes, I agree about being on the eating side, too! But I was inspired by these themes, so I may take one day off from attending to host one, myself. 😊
I love brunch get togethers with my girlfriends! Can’t wait to implement some of these ideas, especially the PJ one.
Yes, brunch is a great time to fellowship with your women friends! I want to try the PJ one, too. 😊
Brunch seems to be universally loved by all age groups! I love hosting one mid-winter, after the hubbub of the holidays has subsided, but before “outdoor” weather returns. Thanks for the ideas for themes!
That is a great time to host a brunch, like right around Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day. You are welcome; those themes are great! 🤩
Brunch is my favorite to host. Great ideas.
I haven’t tried, yet, but it definitely seems like it would be a lot of fun! Thank you 😊
You’ve got my wheels turning for a Mother’s Day brunch! Thanks girl!
That’s a great idea. The restaurants are usually so packed, so hosting your own at home is a fun alternative. You’re welcome 😊
I love brunch! Definitely agree that bacon should be included on the must have list. I also love the idea of a coffee and donut theme
I know, right?! What’s not to like about brunch. Agree, a coffee and donut theme is simple, yet fun theme to pull together. 😊