Are you hosting your next book club? Learn how to host an easy brunch with simple tips for choosing a theme, setting the table, and planning a menu everyone will enjoy.
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Easy Ideas For Hosting A Book Club Brunch
When it’s your turn to host your monthly book club meeting, and you’re not sure where to start or how to plan, a brunch is the perfect choice. The food and decor are simple, the setting is casual, and a brunch leaves plenty of time for the part everyone looks forward to most…talking about the book.
I’m sharing simple ideas for hosting a book club brunch, from choosing a theme to setting the table, creating an easy DIY centerpiece, and planning the menu.
Nothing fancy, just easy ways to make it feel welcoming and most importantly, fun! So grab a pen, jot down a few notes, and get inspired to host a casual book club brunch in your own home.
Table of Contents
- Easy Ideas For Hosting A Book Club Brunch
- How to Choose a Book for Your Book Club
- How to Select a Theme for Your Book Club Brunch
- How to Send an Invitation for Your Book Club
- How to Set the Table for a Book Club Brunch
- How to Create a Centerpiece With Vintage Books
- What Food to Serve at Your Book Club Brunch
- How to Keep the Book Discussion Going
- Ready to Host Book Club?
- More Book Club Ideas and Inspiration from My Friends
- Did You Enjoy this Post? PIN It for Later!
How to Choose a Book for Your Book Club
Before you think about decorating or planning the menu, it helps to know what everyone will be reading. For some book clubs, a new book is already chosen well in advance. For others, picking what to read each month is part of the fun.
If your group is still deciding, start a running list and invite everyone to add titles they’re interested in. From there, a quick vote keeps things simple and makes sure people feel invested in the choice.
Once the book is decided, it’s helpful to share a few easy ways for members to get a copy. Some may already have it, while others may prefer to check it out from the library, download an e-book for their Kindle or tablet, or order it online.
It’s also worth setting expectations around the reading itself. Not everyone finishes at the same pace, and that’s okay. Letting the group know whether it’s fine to come even if they’re still reading helps keep your book club party relaxed and welcoming.
If your group needs inspiration, here are a few easy places to start:
How to Select a Theme for Your Book Club Brunch
Once your group decides on a book, it’s time for the fun part…choosing your theme. Having a theme (even a loose one) helps give you a little direction and makes it easier to decide on your decor, set your table, create an invitation, and choose your menu.
If you need a thought starter, an easy place to start is the setting of your book. Where does the story take place? It doesn’t have to be complicated, just pull in a few small details that make sense.
For example, Where the Crawdads Sing is set in coastal North Carolina, which is the perfect excuse for a coastal-inspired menu and a casual, coastal-themed table.
If you’re reading historical fiction, you can look to the time period for food ideas or choose decor that reminds you of a favorite character from the book.
You can even draw inspiration from things around your home. For my book club brunch, I didn’t base my theme on one specific book, but instead used a small collection of vintage books I already owned to help guide my decor and color scheme for the party.
I focused on a neutral color palette with shades of blue, black, ivory, and green, and used those colors throughout the table and decor.
And because I was hosting this book club during the cold Midwest winter months, I also leaned into cozy, neutral decor to help set the tone. Plenty of soft textures, simple layers, and muted colors to create a party setting that feels both warm and welcoming.
How to Send an Invitation for Your Book Club
While a text or group message would work well for sharing plans for your book club brunch, who doesn’t love getting a personalized invitation?
You can create one-of-a-kind invites to match the theme of your book club get-together using a free design site like Canva. It’s an easy way to create something simple and affordable, and it makes the gathering feel a little more special right from the start.
Here are a few things you might want to include on your invitation:
Once your invitations are designed, you can print them and just drop them in the mail. Or, you skip the stamps and send them electronically. If you’d rather go fully digital, free sites like Evite, Paperless Post, and Punchbowl all work well.
How to Set the Table for a Book Club Brunch
Hosting a brunch for your book club is all about good food, good company, and good conversation, so when it comes to setting the table, it’s best to keep it casual.
If you’re not sure where to start, layering a mix of materials, patterns, and rustic touches helps the table feel casual but still pulled together, without needing everything to match.
Hosting Tip
Before buying anything new, shop your home first. Take note of what you already have, then make a short list of anything you actually need.
Build Your Place Settings
Laying down a tablecloth and a table runner first also helps set the foundation before you start placing chargers, plates, and napkins.
For each place setting, start with some charger plates like these galvanized metal ones and layer black and white grain sack striped napkins on top.
From there, add your dishware. I use these black and white stoneware plates that I found while thrifting. Mixing pieces like this keeps your table from feeling too matchy and makes it feel collected instead.
Add Some Book-Inspired Details
To tie the table back to your book club theme, small, book-inspired details go a long way. Something as simple as a page from an old book placed at each setting can add interest.
For my table, I placed a page in the center of each plate and lightly burned the edges for a worn, vintage look.
And next to each place setting, I added another napkin tied with a piece of twine and adorned with a small paper scroll.
Pull It All Together
From there, finish setting your table with silverware and drinking glasses. Remember, it doesn’t have to feel fancy.
I used thrifted silverware paired with vintage-look hobnail glasses, but whatever you already have works just as well.
This is also the perfect time to add a small takeaway gift. Tuck a simple bookmark or a favorite quote from the book into the napkins. Even a treat at each place setting is a fun, thoughtful addition to your brunch table.
Hosting Tip
If you want to make your table feel extra special, add simple place cards. A handwritten name on cardstock or a tag tied to a napkin is the perfect way to personalize each place setting.
How to Create a Centerpiece With Vintage Books
Once the table is set, the centerpiece is what helps to pull your theme together. For book club, it doesn’t need to be elaborate. It just needs to add a little interest without getting in the way of conversation.
For my centerpiece, I started by placing a rustic wood tray in the center of the table to give everything a base.
From there, I added a vintage soup tureen that I turned into a simple planter and filled with a few faux paperwhites to create this DIY arrangement. Anything you already have that adds a bit of height works here: a bowl, a pitcher, or even a small basket.
Next, I stacked and scattered vintage books along the center of the table. This is an easy way to tie in the book club theme, and it also helps tie in the color palette and give the table a layered, collected look.
Hosting Tip
If you’re looking for vintage books, check thrift stores, estate sales, and antique malls first. Online marketplaces like Etsy or Facebook Marketplace are also great for finding bundles in similar colors.
To finish it off, I added mixed and matched thrifted glass bottles and these rustic black taper candle holders, so I could include candles for a bit of added warmth to the table.
The best part about creating a centerpiece like this is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it. You can adjust the number of books, candles, or containers depending on the size of your table, and nothing needs to be perfectly placed. As long as it feels inviting and leaves room for conversation, it’s doing its job.
What Food to Serve at Your Book Club Brunch
When it comes to planning the menu for a brunch (or any party for that matter), my motto is always the same. Keep it simple.
If you’re hosting a brunch for your book club, include a mix of both sweet and savory options so everyone can find something they enjoy.
A brunch works perfectly for a book club gathering because so many traditional breakfast and brunch recipes can be made ahead.
That means less rushing around in the morning, less time in the kitchen once everyone arrives, and more time sitting at the table, catching up, and talking about the book. Because who says the host shouldn’t get to enjoy the party too?
Here are some of my favorite breakfast and brunch recipes that work especially well for hosting a successful book club gathering.
Breakfast & Brunch Main Dishes
These are recipes you can plan your menu around and make the night before, then just pop them in the oven before brunch begins.
Baked Goods and Breakfast Treats
Set out these baked goods and breakfast treats along with a carafe of coffee for book club members to enjoy as they arrive.
Savory Sides
These savory sides help round out your menu and make the perfect addition to any brunch.
Something Fresh
These fresh and light sides add a touch of sweetness without all the added calories.
Drinks
Oh, and you can’t forget the drinks! For brunch, you can offer both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options. Here are a few simple ideas.
How to Keep the Book Discussion Going
You don’t need a long list of discussion questions for book club. A few good prompts are usually enough to get everyone talking.
It can help to jot down a handful of questions ahead of time, especially if your group includes quieter members. Open-ended questions about favorite characters, surprising moments, or parts of the book that sparked debate tend to work well.
If you prefer to keep things loose, that’s fine too. Often, the conversation takes on a life of its own once everyone is seated and settled.
Ready to Host Book Club?
Thanks for stopping by! I hope this post has given you some tips and ideas for hosting your own book club brunch.
If you’re looking for even more book club ideas and inspiration, be sure to see additional posts from a few of my friends, linked below.
Xo,
More Book Club Ideas and Inspiration from My Friends
The Ponds Farmhouse / Bricks n’ Blooms / Vintage Home Designs
Midwest Life and Style / Our Tiny Nest / Simply 2 Moms
Did You Enjoy this Post? PIN It for Later!
Such a beautiful table, Jen! Those paperwhites in the soup tureen are gorgeous! I am excited to feature your post at Tuesday Turn About. Thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you, Lynne. I truly appreciate it! Heading over now to check out all of the features.
I’ve always heard of book clubs but have never thought sitting around talking about a book I just read would be all that fun. Why didn’t I think book clubs could be this fun or pretty?! I’m raising my hand to join in now (if ever asked). Your table is fantastic! You have a real gift for tablescapes my friend. Love this. Thank you for sharing it on Farmhouse Friday too. I’m featuring it tomorrow. pinned
Thank you so much, Cindy. I’m not much of a reader myself, but I think the idea of a book club sounds like so much fun. And of course, you would absolutely be welcome!😉 And thank you for sharing my tablescape. I look forward to seeing all of the features and reading your post!
Yeah for book club brunch, Jen! This tablecape is gorgeous. I love the paperwhites and how you added so many fabulous books and book pages to each place setting. It’s all so fun and festive and warm and inviting. Loving, pinning, and will share on Friday. Big hugs, CoCo
Thank you, CoCo. I love how the table came together and the centerpiece took me less than 10 minutes to make. I plan to share a separate DIY post for that soon! And thank you for sharing. It is always so appreciated. I look forward to reading Friday’s post!
What a fun table Jen! Those paperwhites give me hope that Spring is close!
Thank you, Diane. I’m with you on holding out hope for spring. I’m ready for some sunshine and warmer weather!
What a fun idea, Jen, I adore your paperwhites and all of the book details on your table.
I can’t wait to see what you are serving tomorrow.
Thank you, Wendy. I hope you enjoy the menu as well. Each of the recipes looks amazing. I can’t wait to try them all!
Jen I love the paperwhites in your tureen, the books, the candles, the aged book pages…all of it! Pinning!
Just love this pretty tablescape Jen! I’m with you on not being a big reader…I try but I’d really just rather scroll social media when I have downtime to relax. The vintage books are perfect and I love the book page rolled up with the napkins!
Thank you, AnnMarie. Yes, I’m with you too. After a long day, my brain needs a break. I know I should read more, but I’m guilty of preferring to zone out and scroll on social media or turn on a movie.
Ohhh my gossshhh my vintage book loving heart is in love!!! You did such a beautiful job styling your table, Jen!! So smart to use books down the middle as a runner and I love how you incorporated that theme throughout the rest of the table settings. SO pretty with those candlesticks, too!! You are the queen of tablescapes…Pinned!!
Thank you, friend! You always know how to pick me up when I need it. Your kind and encouraging words are so appreciated. Hugs to you!
Your tablescape is so pretty, Jen. I love it. Thanks for the inspiration, my friend.
Thank you so much, Renae. It has been so gloomy here lately. The paperwhites and neutral colors really help to brighten the whole room and remind me that spring is on the way!
Jen,
Your table is just stunning. I had my tureen filled with paper whites as my centerpiece but decided to change it at the last minute. That would have been funny if I’d left it. Love all your ideas.
Haha! Great minds. That would have been too funny. Thank you so much, Rachel.
Jen your table looks amazing! love the paperwhites too!
Thank you, Stacy. I haven’t been brave enough to try real ones yet, but these faux ones are the next best thing.
Jen I love your beautiful neutral setting and those paperwhites are gorgeous! Thank you so much for having me this month! This was so much fun!
Thank you, Nicolle. I’m so happy you could join us! I can’t wait for the menu on Saturday!