Weddings used to be much simpler affairs. Often after the ceremony, the assembled guests would gather in the church basement to eat cake and sip Champagne, and then they would be on their way. Those simple times are long gone, though, and now brides and grooms want to serve food that will delight and impress their guests.
It is not just the food that makes a statement, it is the presentation, as well. In fact, sometimes the way in which food is presented can be even more important than the food itself. Some couples will still serve their wedding dinner in the usual way (similar to a typical restaurant), but many are looking for ways to make a memorable statement with the food displays or to tie them into a theme.
"Family Style" Wedding Dinner
The presentation of the wedding food is often very elaborate, but is also possible to create an impression by going the opposite direction. One of the trends in receptions is to serve the dinner family style, with large passed platters. This creates an intimate homey feeling at the wedding. This type of service is particularly suited to weddings that are held in rustic settings, such as vineyards. Family style meals will tend to be simpler foods, but are often very delicious things made with fresh seasonal ingredients.
Serving Stations with Unique Themes
For serving stations, couples will often create a theme at each station that ties in with the food. One wedding that I attended had an enormous seafood station in the middle of the room. The stage was set with nautical paraphernalia, such as crates and draped ropes, oysters on the half-shell, and so forth. The display was almost as impressive as the food: mountains of lobster tails, crab claws, peeled shrimp, oysters, and mussels. It made for a presentation that their guests will never forget.
Small Plate Cocktail Receptions
Another festive way to present food is in individual bites. One chic trend is to serve a small appetizer in a porcelain spoon. The appetizers make a very attractive display for the cocktail hour. For a cold weather wedding, try serving tasty soups in shot glasses. This idea can also be used for a summer wedding if you use cold soups, such as chilled spring pea or gazpacho.
When considering the presentation of the food at your reception, don't forget to dress the table as beautifully as the food. Using special napkins can go a long way towards adding style to the place settings. Pick linens that coordinate with the rest of the wedding. For example, if you are wearing a lot of classic pearl bridal jewelry, you can select napkins with a pearl edge. You can also pull out the pearl accent from bridal jewelry into the centerpieces, by filling a clear vase with large faux pearls to anchor the flowers. It is a gorgeous way to tie it all together.
Every couple wants their wedding and reception to be one that their guests will always remember. A large part of the impression at a reception is created by the food. Serving the best foods with a festive presentation is the perfect way to make your wedding stand out.
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Briget has extensive experience in management and sales in the jewelry industry and she writes about fashion,jewelry and weddings for Silverland Jewelry & Gifts. Check out Silverland's pearl bridal jewelry here.
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