Elegant Party Appetizers

This hands-on entertaining class is designed for anyone who loves the idea of hosting with ease while still serving food that feels polished, festive, and memorable. We’ll focus on elegant, bite-sized appetizers that deliver big flavor and beautiful presentation, along with smart techniques for make-ahead preparation so you can enjoy your own party instead of being stuck in the kitchen. From puff pastry and béchamel to smoked salmon assembly and classic French-inspired sandwiches, you’ll learn how to layer textures, balance richness with brightness, and build a party menu that feels cohesive, sophisticated, and effortless to serve alongside cocktails.

Instructor: Shawnie Kelley

On the Menu:

Beef Wellington Bites - A sophisticated mini version of the classic, featuring tender beef wrapped in mushroom duxelles and flaky puff pastry. These golden bites teach layering flavors and working with pastry for elegant, party-ready presentation.

Mini Croque-Monsieurs - French-inspired ham and cheese sandwiches baked until crisp and golden with a creamy béchamel finish. A rich, comforting appetizer that can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving.

Blinis with Smoked Salmon with Herbed Caper Relish - Delicate buckwheat blinis topped with silky smoked salmon and a bright, briny caper-herb relish. These elegant bites balance richness with freshness and highlight simple assembly and timeless flavor.

Flight of Paired Martinis: The experience is even more elevated with paired modern martinis designed to complement each appetizer: Sample a flight of Rosemary Lemon Martini, Smoked Manhattan Martini, and White Pear Martini.

Please wear long pants and flat, closed-toe shoes for your safety. Long hair should be tied back. You will be standing and cooking for most of the class, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Sandals, flip-flops, and high heels are not permitted in Columbus State kitchens.

Nuts, shellfish, and other common allergens are frequently used in our kitchens. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please notify us at least 48 hours in advance at themix@cscc.edu. We will do our best to accommodate your needs, but please note that adjustments cannot be made during class.

If you need to cancel your class booking, you may do so up to 48 hours before the class to receive a refund or class credit. If The Mix must cancel a class for any reason, you will be notified by phone or email and offered the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

To cancel, contact us at themix@cscc.edu or 614-287-5126.
Class reservations are first-come, first-served—early registration is encouraged.
No refunds will be issued after the class has been held.
The Mix reserves the right to substitute instructors or modify class content when necessary.