Here in Chicago the weather this September has been beautiful and I think it’s been our best summer month. Well I was thinking that to celebrate the month of September why not have one last gathering before the temperature really drops? My favorite place to get snacks and wine is Trader Joe’s, so here are my picks for what to get for your end of summer gathering.

WINE

Yes, wine is much needed for your end of summer social event. Trader Joe’s has a great selection of wines. You can find wines from around the world, as well as the $2 wines (which are actually good) and mine and my boyfriends favorite the Boca Cabernet. Wondering how much to get? I would say the average person drinks two to three glasses, and each bottle is good for 2 people.

CHEESE & CRACKERS

I love cheese & crackers it’s one of my favorite snacks and a great appetizer for parties. Traders Joe’s has a great selection of cheeses as well as ready made platters. They also have a good variety of crackers including low-sodium, low fat crackers, and pita chips if you prefer those to crackers.

APPETIZERS

When it comes to getting appetizers if you don’t have time to prepare from scratch, Trader Joe’s has a great selection of appetizers perfect for your party. You can get little quiches, coconut shrimp, mini pizzas, dips, and more. You guest won’t even know the difference.

DESSERT

I love dessert, chocolate is my favorite. I think I drive my boyfriends nuts because I always want some kind of dessert. I can’t help it it’s in my blood. Anyway Trader Joe’s have the cutest and these really delicious mini cupcakes. They come in chocolate of course and vanilla. They are perfect for parties, just have a little something sweet without feeling two guilty.

So these are my picks for favorites at Traders Joe’s for you end of summer event. You have your ideas for all the foods items you need for your party now to time to plan the setting, place for your event, and don’t forget presentation!

Click here to find your closest Trader Joe’s.