The leaves are brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow, and there is a brisk chill in the air. Celebrate the turning of the season by taking a trip with friends and family to an apple orchard. Pick an assortment of apples to create a seasonal apple menu. Save time by making the easy, yet elegant appetizer of goat cheese rolled in Herbes de Provence ahead of time, and serve it with flatbread crackers and a variety of apple slices. In the morning, assemble the beef and apple stew in the slow cooker, turn it on, and be welcomed by a wonderful aroma upon your return. Most guests enjoy helping out in the kitchen, so have them help prepare the Apple Harvest Salad and the Apple Tart while you enjoy a glass of wine.

While at the orchard, pick out an assortment of small squashes, pumpkins or potted mums to decorate the table. You can also arrange red and green apples with unshelled nuts in a rustic basket to serve as a seasonal centerpiece. Keep it casual by serving this menu buffet-style. Your guests can serve themselves the stew right from the slow cooker. Instead of napkins, use small dish towels, folding them so that a pocket is formed in the front, in which you can slip in the flatware. A fun-filled day at the orchard will end with an autumnal meal using the delicious fruits of your labor.