Outdoor brunch brings out best in everyone.

• Position: Entertaining

Make a weekend afternoon brunch a new tradition by turning It into a sophisticated, and fun affair. If the weather is suitable, host your event outdoors to accentuate a light, breezy feel. Invite your close friends, and encourage them to bring a guest--the casualness of the event makes it a perfect time to build new friendships.

The team at Henri's Reserve, an e-boutique that offers Family Estate French Champagnes, shares tips to steer away from the same-old same-old and make your brunch a cut above the rest.

Abolish your own stress. Trying to get all of the details just right can be stressful. You can avoid tension by preparing for your event in advance so you can spend your time seeing to your guests' needs and listening to their stories. Set the table the night before and create a menu that allows for early preparation. Pancakes require your attention, but French toast can be made early and baked while you serve drinks. Even crepes can be made ahead of time. If you wish to have eggs, serve quiche or strata. More time with guests will help ease stress.

Never limit your event. Brunch is flexible. Some guests already may have weekend plans, but many will have nothing to do. The most successful brunches can last until dinnertime. Do not hurry your guests through their meal or give any subtle cues that the event Is over. Clear the table, but leave clean up until later. Do not be afraid to use brunch to springboard into further activities with the group--perhaps a game of tennis or afternoon shopping.

Treat guests like royalty. Serve elegant champagne or add an unexpected element, perhaps something entertaining. The proverbial sparkling cocktail for mornings is the mimosa, a simple mix of champagne and orange juice. Dial up your party and treat guests to a champagne tasting. Do not serve the same old champagnes; show you are in the know. Be their master sommelier.

Keep the menu light and surprise them with unusual food pairings. Late morning meals should be light and airy. Your guests who were up the previous evening will not be prepared for a heavy meal. Rather than baked breads, serve Danishes and scones. Fruit is an exceptional complement to any meal. It is gentle, tasty, hydrating, and the colors break up an otherwise...