Go for crowd-pleasers like Gouda, sharp cheddar and salami. Set out different types of preserves and chutneys for mixing-and-matching. Offer lots of crackers, sliced bread, nuts and olives for guests to nibble. Bev likes to stick to a simple formula when entertaining: start with a cheese, add charcuterie, something piquant like olives and always include a little something sweet, like chocolate!

Herbs add a pop of color and freshness to both cheese boards and crostini appetizers. Serving rosemary asiago? Tuck sprigs of fresh rosemary on your cheese board to play up the flavor profile. Think outside the box! Bev garnishes her apple and gouda crostini with fresh basil from her garden. She pairs cheddar, pears and Jalapeño Pepper Jelly with sprigs of fresh mint for balance.