Large cocktail party rapidly approaching. Among other things we'll have the obligatory fruit tray and cheeze tray. I wanted to have some nuts for munching. I went somewhere once (can't remember where) and they had an assortment of warm mixed nuts. Any one with any recipes for this and also how you serve it. I wasn't thinking peanuts and cashews - but maybe pistachio nuts, brazil nuts. I'm open to ideas though. Do I just warm them in the microwave and put in a dish with a scoop? I have cocktail plates and cloth napkins. Do I just put a stash of nice paper napkins beside the nuts bowl? Some nuts are nice candied (?) Any thoughts on those?
Thanks

Deep breath, Sherry. And again ~ another deep breath ~ and now one more...

You have done an outstanding job of planning a party in the professional/corporate arena. As for the nuts, well, nuts to any concern that they should be "warmed" ~ believe me, they will cool within minutes and no one will notice the difference.

Yes, serve some nuts along with the fruit and cheese trays ~ just scatter them around and you will be fine!

Okay, think you are reaching the "panic" stage ~ no worries. You just have to tell yourself "no worries" AND believe it. You have planned a great party and it will be a great party as long as you follow Rule Number One: the host and hostess set the stage. If you are happy and genuinely pleased to greet these people into your home, they will be happy to be there as well.

It all flows from the initial greeting - let loose of any idea of control and don't try to micro-manage how the night will progress. The catering staff already has its instructions; sit back, relax and let them do their job! Have fun at your own party!

Idaho, I think you are right. Little panicked but will be fine. Chef and I still aren't on the same page yet re the menu. I think that is the real source. He has always come through but I hate being down to the wire like this. I always feel like I end up compromising when I didn't have to. Pain in the butt since I have to pay for it. He thinks he knows what I want so well because I always use him but I'm just not feeling this menu. Anyway I sent him an email that I want the menu finalized one way or the other tomorrow. So we will see.

Ahhh, those luscious roasted nuts from my favorite department store candy counter.
Unless you have a electric warming tray you could set up on the buffet or sideboard with an attractive low glass dish that isn't crystal to hold the nuts, I can't think of any other way to offer them warm.
The department store display utilizes a hot warming bulb like the ones found in commercial popcorn units.

Deep breath, Sherry ~ go indulge in a bubble bath ~ it's too late to change the menu anyway! So, trust in your judgment that you hired the right caterer AND stop second-guessing yourself!

Everything is going to go splendidly ~ why are you so worried? And, by the way, a little compromise isn't such a bad thing ~ chefs usually know these things!

Kick back, relax and enjoy your party. The more you worry; the more uncomfortable it will be for your guests so let loose and have fun....