ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) – When it is too late for breakfast but not quite time for lunch, a versatile meal can fit the bill: brunch. For National Brunch Month, you may want to give the meal a try, even if you remembered to eat something with your morning coffee.

There are various stories regarding the potential origins of this late-morning meal. The word “brunch” appeared in 1895 in “Hunter’s Weekly” when British author Guy Beringer indicated that post-church Sunday meals should not be heavy. Beringer said such meals should be served late in the morning and consist of lighter fare, or a blend of breakfast and lunch. Some historians suggest brunch might have originated from pre-hunt meals that were common in England, while others feel hunters in the southern United States might deserve the credit.

Regardless of when brunch first came on the scene, it remains a popular way to socialize with friends and family. Beginners can utilize this guide to brunch to get the most out of this popular weekend tradition.

Decide on the scope of brunch

Brunches can be intimate occasions with just a few people or large affairs with a dozen guests or more. Organizers can decide if brunch should include children or be an adults-only affair. Make this decision before booking a reservation or laying out a spread.

Create a theme and color scheme

If the brunch is tied into a specific event, such as an upcoming wedding, retirement or birthday, let the restaurant know in advance and they may offer certain decorative elements free or for a small fee. You can do the same if you are making the meal yourself. Pick a single color for all foods in the meal or make bite sized treats adhere to a theme for some extra fun.

Pick a spot with a versatile menu

Brunch blends a series of breakfast and lunch foods together. When shopping around for a place to enjoy brunch, be sure to check if each establishment has a special weekend brunch menu. A mix of breakfast and lunch foods is ideal, as some people may be looking for some eggs and toast while others may prefer a sandwich. When planning an at home brunch or one with friends, choose a variety of options over a large number of a specific food.

Be mindful of allergies

One way to ensure everyone feels comfortable is to pick a restaurant or plan your menu to accommodate food allergies and gluten-free diets. Menus on restaurant websites may include such information, but confirm when booking the reservation just to be safe.

Time it right

Brunch traditionally is a weekend event, so it is best to host one on Saturday or Sunday rather than a weekday. Plus, more of your friends and family will be able to join the festivities. Times vary on when brunch begins, but most restaurants offer their brunch menu between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The later start time enables people to sleep in a bit on the weekend, do chores around the house or attend worship services.

Brunch is as versatile as the spread offered. You can have a night brunch party with a large group of friends or a romantic hike coupled with a brunch picnic. Whatever suits your fancy, brunch offers a fun alternative to the formulaic constants of meal times.