Augusta, Georgia is home to the tournament of all tournaments: The Masters. To know it is to love it. People from near and far including celebrities and even royals come to catch a glimpse of their favorite golfer and take in the beautiful, meticulously maintained course. The Masters Tournament is a world-class event steeped in tradition unlike any other, and to experience it is unforgettable.
Here in Aiken, we root for our neighboring city and often act as a host-location for patrons to stay and explore while in town for the week. If you plan to entertain guests who have arrived from out of town or for friends gathering on Sunday to watch who will win the coveted green jacket or renters, there are a few unspoken necessities. First, there must be plenty of brews and suds aka beer. Without a doubt, beer is the number one beverage on and off the course. Have a small selection for guests to choose from; the National only has three choices. For our shoot, we opted for a dark lager from Fat Tire and a limited-edition Cheerwine Ale from Cork and Cap Bottle Shoppe, our go-to location in Aiken for wine and beer. For cocktails, we called on our Augusta friends at 2nd City Distilling Co. for a simple Gin and Tonic. You could also substitute Vodka to make an easy citrus spritzer.
While entertaining for the Masters, be sure to serve easy-to-eat finger foods that evoke the spirit of Augusta National. Egg salad sandwiches, pimento cheese sandwiches, and BBQ sandwiches are a must on the menu. Other items to round out the Southern cuisine are potato chips, boiled peanuts, fresh peaches (we love ours with cake), candied bacon, and Moon Pies.
Finally, any centerpieces making an appearance should be no-fuss, easy arrangements. Magnolias are always a classic, and fresh-cut Hydrangeas from the yard boast beautiful blooms that will set the stage for a memorable event as history is being made at the
beloved golf course. Until then, hit 'em straight and hit & 'em long!
Pimiento Cheese and Egg Salad Sandwiches - Blue Collard Market
BBQ Sandwiches - Pot Smokers BBQ Aiken
Beer and Wine - Cork and Cap Bottle Shoppe
Gin and Vodka- 2nd City Distilling Co.
Vanilla Cake - Nothing Bundt Cakes Aiken
Styling and Florals - Meghan Bishop and Maggie Rassmusen
Renter’s Gift box includes items from Cork and Cap Bottle Shoppe, Fresh Water Design Co., and Cleanse Gourmet. Hand painted Bourbon by Debbie Real.
Board in Aiken offers Charcuterie boxes that are always a treat to have in the fridge for renters, as well as guests. Give Ashley and Casey a call to order your own!