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2025-03-20T14:53:00

(BPT) – Looking for the perfect spring getaway? Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is one of America’s most beloved family beach destinations, delivering a perfect mix of adventure, entertainment and coastal charm. With 60 miles of breathtaking shoreline and 14 unique communities, The Beach is the ideal spot for families, couples and thrill seekers alike.

Right now, Myrtle Beach is gearing up for an exciting season of new experiences in addition to its iconic offerings that draw visitors to its golden shores every year. Read on to discover how you can make the most of your spring visit to The Beach.

Outdoor Recreation: Adventure Awaits

After a cold winter, you’re probably itching to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Myrtle Beach’s warm springtime weather offers an array of opportunities to enjoy the season’s beauty and take part in unforgettable outdoor activities.

Thrill-seekers will find plenty of ways to get their adrenaline pumping at The Beach. Experience the rush of Seakart Adventure SC, where you can drive a unique hybrid watercraft that combines the speed of a Jet Ski with the stability of a boat. Embark on a deep-sea fishing excursion or take on a high-speed adventure at attractions like the Broadway Grand Prix.

For golf fans, the PGA TOUR’s ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, held May 8-11 at the Dunes Golf & Beach Club, offers a front-row seat to see all the action live on a championship golf course renowned for its beautiful Atlantic Ocean views. Golfers of all skill levels can tee off at more than 90 championship courses or challenge friends and family at over 30 imaginative and interactive mini-golf courses. After all, the Grand Strand is the Golf Capital of the World.

For those of you who love the great outdoors at a slower pace, stroll through Brookgreen Gardens. This must-see botanical garden effortlessly combines art, nature and history. This year, when you visit the gardens, you can check out the new Simpson Art Center, a state-of-the-art studio and sculpture conservation lab that allows guests to interact with nationally recognized sculptors and contemporary artists, offering a variety of classes and public programs.

Exciting Events and Experiences

There’s no shortage of celebrations and activities in Myrtle Beach. Besides having fun in the sun on the beach itself, be sure to check out classic favorites like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, ride the SkyWheel and visit Ripley’s Aquarium.

Kick off the season with the Sun Fun Festival (May 16-18), a long-standing Myrtle Beach tradition that welcomes the warm-weather season with live music, a parade and a spectacular aerial display from the U.S. Army Golden Knights. Just a few weeks later, seafood lovers can head to the World Famous Blue Crab Festival (May 17-18) in Little River, where fresh local blue crab, live entertainment and waterfront views create the perfect family-friendly experience.

Are you a fan of country music? If you’re visiting June 5-8, don’t miss the 10th annual Carolina Country Music Festival. This beachside event celebrates its milestone anniversary with an all-star lineup featuring headliners like Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson.

For a unique small-town experience, head 15 miles inland from Myrtle Beach to Conway, South Carolina, and check out the newly completed addition to the Conway Riverwalk, which seamlessly connects the Riverfront and Conway, South Carolina’s Main Street. Enjoy a scenic stroll through this beautiful historic town, complete with new walkways, decks, floating docks and a section over the railroad that enhances pedestrian access.

A Taste of The Beach

Are you ready to experience the best of Southern cuisine? Myrtle Beach offers an abundance of fresh-caught coastal Carolina seafood, traditional dishes and innovative cuisine with an international twist.

Book a table at Cape Fear Seafood Company, which has crafted award-winning seafood experiences for locals and visitors alike for over a decade. Its newest location in North Myrtle Beach offers locally sourced seafood bursting with Southern flavor.

For a meal with a view, visit Flavor Hills, a new oceanfront restaurant and bar where you can take in the stunning sights of the Atlantic Ocean. Try local dishes and fresh seafood specialties along with fan favorites like Bang Bang Shrimp, Catfish & Grits and Bourbon Peach Cobbler. Don’t forget to order a craft cocktail!

Wine enthusiasts can discover the perfect blend of nature, relaxation and European-style wines at Barn View Winery. This picturesque 75-acre estate in Loris is the area’s newest winery and is the perfect place to relax and unwind with vino and live music.

Beer lovers unite at the new Palmetto Taps in Conway, the area’s first self-serve taproom. You can sample over 40 craft beers, hard ciders and seltzers, along with additional selections of wine and other beers available behind the bar.

Head to downtown Myrtle Beach for authentic Brazilian dining at Boteco VIP, a new restaurant inspired by traditional botecos offering bold flavors, handcrafted cocktails and live entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.

Where to Stay: Spring Getaway Deals

Getting to Myrtle Beach is a breeze. Nearly half of the U.S. population is within a day’s drive, and Myrtle Beach International Airport offers over 50 direct flights.

There are also plenty of places to stay with hotel deals you can take advantage of this spring. When searching for a place to stay, consider booking a room at The Ellie Beach Resort Myrtle Beach, Tapestry by Hilton & DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront. This dual-brand concept property opened last year and offers a variety of accommodations and amenities, including six indoor and outdoor pools and three waterslides.

From heart-racing adventures to family-friendly festivals and unforgettable coastal flavors, spring is the perfect time to visit Myrtle Beach. For more information on what’s new and to start planning your trip, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com.

2025-03-19T09:01:00

(BPT) – As the first day of spring arrives and the days grow warmer, it’s time to celebrate the new season with fresh, vibrant flavors. Galbani Fresh Mozzarella is the perfect partner this season, adding a creamy, milky texture to a variety of dishes. It’s expertly crafted and never contains any added whiteners like titanium dioxide.

Whether making a fresh salad or a seasonal pasta dish, Galbani Fresh Mozzarella is ideal for those seeking delicious yet light meals that highlight the season’s best ingredients.

Explore the best of spring with these delicious recipes and tips from the mozzarella experts at Galbani Cheese, Italy’s #1 Cheese Brand:

Fresh Asparagus Pasta Salad

A light and refreshing pasta salad bursting with the flavors of spring. Tender asparagus and creamy Galbani Fresh Mozzarella come together for a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• Dressing: 3/4 cup of oil from Galbani^® Marinaded Fresh Mozzarella Ciliegine Classic Flavor, 1/4 cup of white wine vinegar, 1 lemon (juiced)
• Pasta Salad: 8 ounces Galbani^® Marinaded Fresh Mozzarella Ciliegine Classic Flavor (halved), 16 ounces orecchiette or penne pasta, 1 bunch of asparagus (trimmed/cut into 2-inch pieces), 8 ounces snap peas, 2 cups strawberries (stems removed and sliced), 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), salt and pepper to taste, fresh basil for garnish

Directions:

• Dressing: Place all ingredients into a bowl. Whisk until thoroughly combined and set aside in the refrigerator.
• Pasta Salad:

1. Cook the pasta according to the packaged instructions. Then place in a large bowl and set aside at room temperature.
2. Blanch the asparagus and snap peas by adding the vegetables to a boiling salted pot of water. Boil for two to three minutes then immediately place in an ice bath. Drain and set aside.
3. Add ciliegine to the pasta bowl, then add the asparagus, snap peas, strawberries, and red onions. Top with dressing and gently mix until all ingredients are combined. Cover and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil prior to serving.

Ham and Fresh Mozzarella Frittata

Bringing together the creamy richness of Galbani Fresh Mozzarella with savory ham, this frittata makes for a simple yet delicious breakfast or light spring dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 of Galbani Fresh Mozzarella Sliced Log (cut into 1-inch pieces), 8 eggs (whisked), 1/4 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup cooked ham (diced), 6 – 8 green onions (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), handful of arugula, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to taste, extra virgin olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl whisk the eggs then add the mozzarella, milk, ham, arugula, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until ingredients are combined, then set aside.
2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and spring onions. Sauté for two to three minutes, then remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and gently stir to evenly distribute the ingredients. Place in the oven and bake for 15 – 20 minutes. Broil for one to two minutes to achieve a golden brown top.

Tips for Working with Fresh Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella effortlessly elevates spring cooking, especially when paired with seasonal produce, resulting in vibrant dishes that celebrate fresh flavors. To help you make the most of Galbani Fresh Mozzarella this spring, here are some expert tips:

• Storage and Freshness: To keep your fresh mozzarella at its best after opening, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Understanding Fresh vs. Regular Mozzarella: Galbani Fresh Mozzarella has a higher moisture content, resulting in a creamy, smooth texture that’s ideal for adding richness to dishes. It perfectly elevates spring pastas, salads, and paninis. In contrast, Galbani regular mozzarella is firmer and better suited for shredding and slicing.

For a standout way to elevate spring dishes, let Galbani Fresh Mozzarella be the star ingredient your recipes have been missing. Galbani Cheese is distributed in the United States by Lactalis USA, a division of Lactalis, the world’s largest dairy company. Discover more recipes and tips at Galbanicheese.com/freshforspring.

2025-03-19T10:01:00

(BPT) – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently updated the nutrition requirements on the claim of using the word “healthy” on food packaging. This updated definition helps consumers cut through the noise of misinformation and make informed choices about the food they eat and serve to their families. The FDA’s new definition of “healthy” puts nutrient-dense foods like salmon, that protect and promote health, in the spotlight.

Why is Salmon Considered Healthy?

The FDA’s new definition reflects the latest science, including the understanding that the type of fat matters more than total fat content. Salmon is rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are shown to reduce inflammation, support heart health, and play a key role in brain development and cognitive function, among other benefits. These powerful nutrients make salmon an important part of any diet.

What to Look for When Buying Salmon

When selecting salmon, consider farmed salmon from Chile. Chilean salmon is particularly high in omega-3s and low in mercury, making it a great choice for the entire family, including pregnant women and children. Chilean salmon is also farmed using best practices to ensure quality and sustainability that are vital to the health of oceans and industry.

Salmon de Chile is available year-round in both fresh and frozen varieties, ensuring a nutritious option no matter the season. When shopping, be sure to check the label for the country of origin and look for premium-quality salmon from Chile.

How Often Should You Eat Salmon?

The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend that adults consume at least 8 ounces of fish per week, but most Americans fall short of this target. Fatty fish, like salmon from Chile, is especially nutrient rich, offering high-quality protein, hard-to-find vitamin D and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats. Research shows eating more fish, especially fatty fish, may decrease your heart disease risk, improve eye health, help you sleep better, and support healthy aging. Eating more seafood is also associated with a lower risk of depression and better mood.

With its mild flavor, quick cooking time, and versatility, salmon makes it easy to meet this goal. Try baking, grilling, or air-frying salmon for a simple, delicious meal packed with health benefits. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a weekend special, salmon is a smart, flavorful choice that aligns with the FDA’s new definition of healthy eating.

For more information about salmon, sustainability practices, and nutrition visit chileansalmon.org.

2025-03-19T07:01:00

(BPT) – When Brandi and Delvin Peeks’ daughter Leah Michelle was born at just 23 weeks gestation, weighing 1 pound 8 ounces, doctors said her chances of survival were slim. Even more heart-wrenching for the Peeks was that Leah Michelle’s birth came after three and a half years of trying to conceive.

In the aftermath of a premature birth, with so many anxious feelings to process, most parents would never imagine that the nutrition provided to their fragile newborn in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) could actually increase their baby’s health risks.

Critical Nutrition Decisions

Though Leah Michelle was fed Brandi’s breast milk while in the NICU, doctors said Leah would require a substantial boost in nutrients and calories. Preemies typically need 20-40% more calories and protein than full-term babies because they missed important growth during the last trimester.

The hospital planned to use a standard human milk fortifier — which, despite its name, is typically made from cow milk.

“I recalled the advice a friend had given me when I went into preterm labor: ask for a fortifier made by a company called Prolacta Bioscience — it’s the only fortifier made from 100% donor breast milk,” remembers Brandi. “At first, I didn’t want to say anything about the fortifier and step on any toes, since Leah was doing okay.”

A Mother’s Instinct Proves Right

That hesitation vanished when Leah developed serious complications after receiving the cow milk-based fortifier. “I didn’t know it then, but the protein in cow milk can substantially increase the risk for intestinal problems in the smallest preemies like Leah. Among the most serious of these complications is necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which occurs when the paper-thin lining of the intestine becomes inflamed and dies, leaving the baby vulnerable to intestinal perforation and sepsis.”

Soon after the NICU introduced the cow milk-based fortifier into Leah’s feedings, she began vomiting. Before long, her belly started to swell and there was blood in her stool. Tests confirmed she had developed NEC, the leading cause of death among extremely premature babies.

A Well-Studied Alternative

“We approached the hospital staff about changing Leah’s feedings to the human milk-based fortifier. They were initially resistant, but we took our demand all the way to hospital administration,” recalls Brandi. “They finally agreed and said that while they’d never used Prolacta in their NICU, they would add it to Leah’s feedings.”

The switch to human milk-based fortifier transformed Leah’s health almost immediately. The vomiting stopped, her stomach returned to normal, and she began gaining weight. Thankfully, after 131 days in the NICU, Leah finally went home.

Addressing Disparities

The experience has turned the Peeks into advocates for premature infant nutrition. Additionally, as a Black woman, Brandi is well aware of the studies showing Black women are 50% more likely than White women to give birth prematurely and that Black babies are nearly four times as likely to die from complications of prematurity. “Many preemie parents, Black and White, are never informed that a safer alternative to cow milk-based formula exists,” explains Brandi.

Getting the Word Out

Today, Leah is a healthy fifth-grader who enjoys playing the clarinet, acting, singing, and competitive swimming. “One of my life missions is to share our story as widely as I can, so that preemie parents are aware of human milk-based fortifiers. Every child deserves a fighting chance to grow up strong and healthy — just like our baby.”

As of last year, about half of the country’s highest-level NICUs now use human milk-based products for very low birth weight infants under 2.75 pounds.

If you have a very premature baby or know someone who does, advocate early and often for 100% human milk-based nutritional products. To learn more, visit Prolacta.com.

2025-03-19T02:01:00

(BPT) – As the American population ages, the desire to “age in place” — remaining in one’s own home during the golden years — has become increasingly prevalent. A recent survey by Point, a home equity investment company, reveals that 84% of older adults say staying in their homes as they age is extremely or very important. This preference is driven by a desire for independence, familiarity and the avoidance of high costs associated with assisted living facilities.

The desire to age in place is understandable, but it often comes with high costs and complex logistics. Rising living expenses, insufficient savings and the need for home modifications to ensure safety and accessibility are formidable obstacles for many seniors.

Financial Hurdles in Retirement

The financial landscape for older homeowners is becoming increasingly complex. Point’s survey of over 1,000 homeowners aged 50 and older found that nearly 30% of those not yet retired lack confidence in their ability to retire on time — or at all. This uncertainty is largely attributed to rising living costs and inadequate savings. Notably, 15% of working homeowners over 50 have saved less than $10,000 for retirement, and among this group, 88% doubt they’ll be able to retire on schedule.

The Cost of Aging in Place

While remaining at home is a priority for many, ensuring that a residence is safe and accessible for aging individuals often requires significant investment. Home modifications such as installing grab bars, non-slip flooring and barrier-free entries can be costly. Nearly half of homeowners estimate that necessary home modifications will cost more than $20,000, with some expecting to pay over $100,000.

Despite these upfront costs, aging in place can be more economical than alternative care options. Estimates for in-home care for part-time assistance average $21,600 annually, whereas assisted living facilities cost approximately $54,000 per year, and nursing home care can exceed $116,000 annually.

Leveraging Home Equity

For many older adults, their home is their most significant asset. The survey indicates that half of homeowners aged 50 or older consider their home a crucial part of their net worth in retirement planning, with almost half possessing more than $250,000 in home equity.

However, accessing this equity can be challenging. Traditional financing options like cash-out refinancing or home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) often come with stringent income requirements and monthly payments, which may not be feasible for retirees on fixed incomes.

Home Equity Investments (HEIs) offer an alternative solution. HEIs allow homeowners to access a portion of their home equity without incurring monthly payments or additional debt. Instead, homeowners receive a lump sum in exchange for a share of the home’s future appreciation. This approach provides the necessary funds for home modifications or other expenses, enabling seniors to age in place comfortably.

Planning for the Future

Proactive planning is essential for those wishing to age in place. Assessing financial resources, exploring alternative funding options like HEIs, and budgeting for potential home modifications can help bridge the gap between the desire to remain at home and the financial realities of doing so.

As the senior population continues to grow, addressing the financial challenges associated with aging in place will become increasingly important. By leveraging home equity and planning ahead, older adults can enhance their ability to remain in their homes, preserving both their independence and financial well-being.

2025-03-18T09:01:00

(BPT) – Do you have fond memories of being read stories at bedtime or curling up with your favorite books? While reading has been a cherished pastime for many during childhood, today’s kids face multiple distractions, including video games and social media. The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the Nation’s Report Card, reveals a concerning trend in the declining reading scores of American students, a challenge predating the pandemic.

To better understand students’ reading behaviors, Renaissance, a global leader in education technology and learning solutions, began tracking and compiling the annual “What Kids Are Reading” report, which has become the world’s largest annual study of K-12 student reading habits. The report provides insights on reading growth, popular books and series by grade, titles to engage reluctant readers and authentic Spanish titles.

The research on student reading clearly outlines the power of 15 minutes of daily reading practice to drastically improve student outcomes. Data shows that just 48% of K-2 students read 15 minutes daily. In grades 9-12, this drops to a mere 20% of students. However, establishing a 15-minute-per-day average reading habit leads to marked improvement for all children — especially those who are behind.

“Overall, kids are reading less and less,” said Dr. Gene Kerns, chief academic officer at Renaissance. “That’s why we feel so strongly that this report can help anyone who wants to engage a child in the joy of reading.”

For parents and caregivers wanting to see their children read more, Renaissance’s team of researchers offers these tips:

1. Kickstart a 15-minute daily reading habit

It’s easier to encourage a reading habit when your child sees you enjoy reading. Choose a convenient time, such as right after dinner or before bedtime, for the whole family to enjoy 15 minutes of reading. This is a great way to wind down the day and discover new things to talk about together.

“Reading at least 15 minutes per day is one of the best habits kids can develop,” said Kerns. “Not only are they exposed to more words, but their understanding of themselves and the world expands as their ability to read more sophisticated material grows.”

2. Discover beloved authors

Identify authors who your child resonates with to kindle their enthusiasm for reading. If you notice your child loving one book, help them find other books by that author. Even if the book they choose is not what you would pick for them, any book that interests them can crack open the door to more reading. Using one favorite book as a springboard can turn a reluctant reader into a lifelong reader.

“For many students, finding pleasure in and truly connecting with reading begins with finding some success — often their first success in reading,” said Kerns. “Let reluctant or struggling readers read the books they want to read. Then work to guide their reading practice from there. Reading simple books is better than not reading books at all.”

3. Explore book series

Renaissance’s student reading data shows benefits for kids interested in a series. The more series a child reads, the more books they read overall. The largest leap the report found was from 23 total books read by kids who were reading just two series to more than twice that — 50 books — read by kids engaged with three or more series. Even better, kids who were reading multiple book series read for 46 minutes daily.

“Book series are providing students with some of the strongest reading growth seen in our research because they’re drawn in for multiple reads,” added Kerns.

4. Embrace graphic novels

While some parents might think graphic novels aren’t “real books,” the truth is, they do measure up well in terms of reading complexity — and they definitely spark and sustain reading interest for many kids.

“Parents may be concerned that graphic novels are not building the necessary reading and comprehension skills their children need, but our research shows these titles are on par in terms of text complexity with others across various grade levels,” said Kerns.

5. Consider STEM books for young readers

Encourage your child’s curiosity by seeking STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) books for younger readers: topics like the natural world, how machines work, outer space and more. Books about science and math spark interest in the world around them, which is an effective way to foster engagement with other subjects as they grow and develop.

Learn more about Renaissance, one of the nation’s leading providers of educational programs used by more than 60% of students across the U.S., at renaissance.com.

To access the complete findings and discover popular books by state and grade, download the 2025 “What Kids Are Reading” report at renaissance.com/resources/what-kids-are-reading.

2025-03-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – When the beauty of spring begins to blossom, roads often become ugly.

That’s because early spring’s freeze-thaw cycle wreaks havoc on road surfaces as conditions warm, opening up potholes that threaten even the toughest vehicles. Drivers celebrating the departure of icy conditions often find their safety just as threatened by the obstacle course that characterizes their daily commutes.

How can drivers avoid the damage inflicted by potholes and rough roads this time of year? Nokian Tyres, a tiremaker that offers a Pothole Protection program with many of its tires, offers a few tips. It’s part of a campaign the company is hosting that invites drivers to vote for the Worst Roads in North America.

Embrace Pothole Protection

The first step to overcoming bad roads? Keeping a close eye on the only part of a vehicle that touches the road.

Some tires come with materials that help them resist punctures and blowouts. For instance, all of Nokian Tyres’ all-season tires are infused with Aramid fibers — the same material used in bulletproof vests.

The lightweight fiber strengthens tires’ sidewalls to help them stay strong when they encounter bumps in the road. And Nokian Tyres even offers a Pothole Protection warranty with its Aramid-infused products. If a tire suffers damage beyond repair from a pothole or road hazard, the company replaces it for free (within terms and conditions).

Other tiremakers are also experimenting with compounds and materials that help tires withstand rough roads. Drivers who live in pothole-prone areas should ask their tire dealers about tires that are designed to keep them safe.

Swap to the Right Tires

Not all types of tires are created equal. Drivers should make sure they’re riding on a set engineered for the time of year in which they’re driving.

Winter tires, which remain soft and responsive on frigid weather, aren’t equipped to hold up consistently when temperatures warm. Their soft compounds are vulnerable to heat, and they tend to wear prematurely and unevenly in the spring and summer months, in addition to being more prone to damage. So, it’s important for winter tire consumers to swap to all-season tires once conditions rise above 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius).

Keep Tires in Working Order

Once the right tires are on the car, drivers need to make sure they’re set up for safety.

That means inflating them to the recommended level, which drivers can find on the door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Tires that are underinflated are more likely to rupture when they encounter road hazards. They’re also less energy efficient.

Drivers should also inspect their tires monthly to ensure there is no visible damage or tread wear. And it’s valuable to schedule an annual appointment with a local tire dealer, who can examine every aspect of the tires to ensure they’re in good working order and don’t need to be replaced.

Potholes can derail journeys and push tires to their breaking point. For more tips on avoiding damage from rough roads, drivers are invited to visit NokianTyres.com/Potholes. Between March 17 and 28, they can enter to win free tires with Pothole Protection by saying why they have the worst roads in North America.

2025-03-18T11:01:00

(BPT) – Brunch is the ultimate meal that brings people together. It’s casual yet special; indulgent but still versatile enough to please all palates. Whether families are celebrating a special occasion, such as Mother’s Day, or simply gathering for a weekend meal surrounded by warm weather, hosting a brunch that everyone loves requires thoughtful planning, including offering a variety of options to keep things stress-free.

Offer a Variety of Options for Everyone

One of the best ways to ensure your brunch is a hit is to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Some people prefer a classic breakfast spread, while others may want heartier lunch-inspired options. By offering both breakfast and lunch dishes, you can please every guest.

For breakfast lovers, consider classics like pancakes, waffles, or scrambled eggs. For those who prefer lunch, add a savory quiche, fresh salads or a sandwich platter. Don’t forget to include vegetarian and gluten-free options, such as fruit salads, yogurt parfaits or avocado toast on gluten-free bread.

One crowd-pleasing option that combines both breakfast and lunch elements is the Overnight Bagel and Egg Casserole, made with Kraft Shredded Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses from Kraft Natural Cheese to make it extra gooey and delicious. It’s easy to prep the night before — and simple enough for little ones to assist with creating by sprinkling in the cheese! — so you can spend more time enjoying the company of your guests in the morning.

Kraft Natural Cheese has been a trusted household name since 1950, delivering exceptional quality and flavor to mealtimes around the world. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, Kraft Natural Cheese continues to be the go-to choice for families and food enthusiasts alike with its broad portfolio of natural cheeses, including shreds, chunks and slices. As part of the Lactalis Heritage Dairy portfolio of brands, a subsidiary of Lactalis USA which offers an unrivaled collection of dairy brands enjoyed in homes across the United States, Kraft Natural Cheese has more than 150 years of combined dairy experience reflected in its cheesemaking.

Prepare Dishes Ahead of Time

No one wants to be stuck in the kitchen while guests are mingling. Opt for make-ahead dishes like casseroles, muffins or overnight oats so that you can focus on hosting rather than cooking. The Overnight Bagel and Egg Casserole is a perfect example of a dish that comes together effortlessly ahead of time while still tasting impressive at mealtime.

Set Up a DIY Drink Station

Beverages are just as important as the food at a brunch. Instead of serving individual drinks, set up a DIY drink station with coffee, tea and fresh juices. Consider including fun mix-ins like cinnamon sticks or fruit slices to elevate the experience.

Create a Beautiful and Functional Buffet Setup

Rather than serving individual plates, set up a buffet-style spread where guests can serve themselves. This allows everyone to choose what they like and keeps the host from being stuck in the kitchen. Use tiered trays and platters to create an eye-catching display and ensure everything is easily accessible.

Brunch is all about enjoying good food and great company. By offering a mix of breakfast and lunch dishes, setting up an inviting buffet, and adding fun interactive elements such as a drink station, you can host a brunch that everyone will love. And with easy, crowd-pleasing recipes like an Overnight Bagel and Egg Casserole made with Kraft Natural Cheese, you’ll have more time to relax and savor the moment with your guests.