3 Tips For A Successful Cocktails And Hors D'oeuvres Wedding Reception

Food & Cooking Blog

If you're planning your wedding and aren't sure you really want a traditional sit-down plated dinner, consider having an hors d'oeuvres and cocktails only reception. This is perfect for couples who want to have a more casual, meet-and-greet type affair. Here is what you need to know for this kind of party to work.

Let Your Guests Know Ahead Of Time

Most people expect a meal when they attend a wedding. Since an hors d'oeuvres only reception isn't traditional, make sure the invitation clearly states this. For example, word it similar to "Cocktail and hors d'oeuvres to follow the ceremony." This way people can eat a more substantial meal before the wedding if need be. Also, consider a non-traditional time, like an evening wedding beginning at 7 o'clock, followed immediately by the reception and dance.

Set Up Appetizer Stations

While you can have servers tray pass some of the more expensive tidbits, like shrimp or caviar, this wouldn't be practical to do all night long. Work with your wedding caterer to come up with a few self-serve stations, such as a crostini station with smoked fish, meats, cheese, olives, mustards, and different breads. A taco or sushi bar is another idea. As guests become hungry, they can nibble on whatever appeals to them. This also gives people with food allergies and picky eaters the opportunity to find something they like. If you choose a traditional cake, you can have it sliced and plated, and then placed on a separate table so the guests can serve themselves if they'd like a piece. In lieu of wedding cake, you can offer a dessert bar or even an assortment of chocolates and candies instead.

Depending on what time your dance is scheduled until, you may also want to consider a midnight snack, such as pizza, for you and your remaining guests.

Provide Different Seating Options

You'll want to have traditional tables and chairs for your elderly guests or families with small children so they are able to sit and enjoy the festivities, but you'll also want to have hi-tops for the younger crowd to mingle near the bar. An hors d'oeuvres reception also provides more opportunity for the bride and groom to flutter around the room and chit chat with everyone as opposed to a sit-down meal, where people are assigned to their table and chair, making visiting more difficult. Consider having an outdoor seating area as well if the venue supports it.

To learn more, contact a wedding catering company like Grand Street Cafe

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