Once our rooftop deck was finally repaired and usable again (it took forever to replace the flooring after a leak), I was eager to put it to good use. Late fall felt like the perfect time for a cozy outdoor gathering.
I partnered with Starbucks® and their TAZO® Chai teas to celebrate the chilly season with hot chai, warm waffles, and plenty of blankets to keep guests comfortable outdoors.
There are a few simple DIY touches in this setup and an easy spiced waffle recipe that’s practically semi-homemade. Read on for ideas to recreate a cozy rooftop brunch or winter get-together.
The weather in Atlanta had been unpredictable, but the day we hosted this gathering turned out perfectly chilly—ideal for wrapping up in blankets and sipping warm drinks. I pulled together blankets and pillows from around the house, then focused on styling the space: decor, beverages, and food.
Spiced Belgian Waffle Recipe
These waffles are one of my favorites because they’re quick yet full of winter spice. I used a boxed Belgian waffle mix and boosted it with spices inspired by TAZO® Classic Chai Latte—cinnamon, sugar, and a touch of ginger. The flavors are subtle and pair beautifully with chai.
Makes 10–12 large Belgian waffles.
Ingredients: 1 box Belgian waffle mix, 4 eggs, 2/3 cup vegetable oil, 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger.
Instructions: In a large bowl whisk together the waffle mix, eggs, oil, cinnamon sugar, and ginger until smooth. Let the batter rest for two minutes. Preheat and spray your waffle iron with cooking spray, pour in the batter, and cook on medium for 2–3 minutes or until done. Repeat until all batter is used.
DIY Ideas
Food and drink bar — To create a festive feel, I added greenery and scattered pomegranates on the food table to echo classic red-and-green holiday colors. A mini Christmas tree anchored the display, its base wrapped in fabric for a tidy look.
For convenience, I set up a small drink station with a Keurig so guests could quickly make chai lattes without going inside. I also hung tea bags from the tree so guests could grab one directly—an easy, playful detail.
TAZO® offers multiple formats for chai lovers, including K-Cup® packs, concentrates, and traditional filterbag teas, so you can choose whatever works best for your setup.
- TAZO® Classic Chai Latte K-Cup® Packs
- TAZO® Vanilla Caramel Chai Latte K-Cup® Packs
- TAZO® Classic Chai Tea Latte Concentrate
- TAZO® Vanilla Caramel Chai Tea Latte Concentrate
- TAZO® Skinny Chai Latte Concentrate
- TAZO® Classic Chai Filterbag Tea
- TAZO® Vanilla Caramel Chai Filterbag Tea
Table runner and centerpiece — I kept the tablescape relaxed by using a scarf as a runner and grouping every candle I had for a warm, low-maintenance display. Minimal blooms and plenty of candlelight create a cozy, inviting atmosphere without fuss.
Florals — I picked up garden roses and peonies and arranged them in a low centerpiece with seasonal greenery for texture. Using a small variety of blooms keeps the arrangement full but understated.
Place cards — For an organic, handmade touch I wrote guests’ names on leather scraps and propped them against satsuma mandarins. It’s a simple, elegant detail that doubles as a little snack.
That’s the gist of how the rooftop brunch came together. Cozy blankets, spiced waffles, and hot chai make an outdoor winter gathering feel welcoming and effortless. I’d love to hear your thoughts—do you enjoy hosting outside when it’s chilly?
Photography Amelia Tatnall
Styling Brittni Mehlhoff
What do you think of outdoor parties when it’s chilly outside? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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This post is in partnership with TAZO®. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Paper & Stitch running.