Welcome to Hosts at Heart, an expert guide on how to bring people together with CHANDON– with advice on everything from menus to music and so much more.


In this edition, chef Jonah Reider shares everything you'll need to host Game Day with friends. Whether planning a watch party days ahead of time or tuning in minutes before kick off, Jonah believes that a relaxed host is the best host - and the things come together effortlessly when working as a team.

SET THE TABLE - AND THE ROOM

SET THE TABLE - AND THE ROOM

Game day isn’t just about what’s on the big screen; it’s about crafting an experience that keeps the energy high from kickoff to the final play. For the table, I love to use the unique ceramic plates and platters that my talented mother has made for me over the years – which really adds that personal touch. Small details make a big impact, and a thoughtfully curated space makes every moment feel like a win – even before the first sip of CHANDON.

INVITE THE RIGHT PEOPLE

INVITE THE RIGHT PEOPLE

The guest list sets the tone for a memorable gathering. A group of six strikes the perfect balance of inclusive and lively. To spark the best conversation, mix it up and aim for a blend of friends who don’t all know each other well. This way, the table will be buzzing with shared excitement, friendly rivalries, and new connections forged over glasses of sparkling CHANDON Brut.

HAVE ENOUGH ICE!

HAVE ENOUGH ICE!

Ice isn’t just for chilling—it’s an aesthetic and practical upgrade to your hosting game. A bucket brimming with ice for CHANDON Brut instantly adds a touch of elegance. CHANDON Brut is my go-to for effortless hosting and is the ultimate complement to my menu of game day food, prepared with friends. It's also a refreshing to embrace something more refined and elegant with friends.

DON'T STRESS ABOUT THE FOOD

DON'T STRESS ABOUT THE FOOD

Great hosting is about creating memories, not about being a master chef. Keep the menu simple yet satisfying, and stick to things you already love to make! Don’t be afraid to ask your guests for help – it’s part of being a team. A collection of more casual snacks can come together as a beautiful meal – recently, I paired CHANDON Brut’s crisp bubbles with a tablescape of crispy, sweet-and-spicy chicken wings and a handful of simple sides that took less than an hour to put together. A relaxed host is the best kind of host!

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