I often get asked about that extra little something to make for a distinctive wedding reception. Today’s blog isn’t about money saving tips and tricks as much as that added special touch when you have some room left in your budget. Below are some ideas to inspire you!
- Starters and Cocktail Hour
I see a lot of couples skip hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour as a way to save a little bit here and there. If you are looking for a great flow for your reception, I recommend not forgoing something to snack on at the start of your party. Whether it is passed bites or appetizing displays, this helps pass the time and keeps your guests mingling while awaiting your grand entrance. Guests that have just been to the ceremony and are getting hungry appreciate a small bite before dinner.
Bonus Tip: The important thing here is keeping guests occupied during cocktail hour while you take pictures and refresh. So not only nibbles, but drinks can also give them something to do. Creating a signature drink or having staff pass champagne or red and white wine at the door can give an elegant touch while making guests feel important and get them in the mood to begin the celebration.
- Dinner
When looking to add something unique to dinner feel free to think outside the box. A plated dinner doesn’t have to be just two courses. Having two starter courses, for example, an Ahi Tuna Tartar, Apple Smoked Bacon wrapped Scallops, or a Wild Mushroom & Bleu Cheese Risotto Cake dish, before the salad comes out can make it a stand out affair!
Bonus Tip: Another idea is adding a dessert course to a plated dinner, or even a dessert station. I often see guests get excited about dessert options other than the wedding cake. An interactive dessert station, for example, ice cream cookie sandwiches or homemade ice cream made on-site, gives guests something extra to remember. Another option is offering bite size dessert displays, as attendees often tend to go towards smaller easy to grab options over a whole slice of cake.
- Bar
If you are looking for your guests to get down and dance, dine and really celebrate, having an open bar is a must. Adding a couple signature drinks is also a great idea. A cute sign by the bar listing some unique specialty drink options will make things easier for your guests allowing them to go up to the bar and place their drink orders without having to give it much thought. Signature drinks are great because guests will always remember the delicious tasting beverage they experienced exclusively at your wedding.
- Late night
A passed snack later in the evening after everyone has been dancing and burning some calories can be really fun. This can be something unique to your style, your favorite things, or your wedding vibe/theme. Think passed milk and cookies, quesadillas, pizza bites, sliders, milkshake shots, or truffle lollipops. Late night bites are great because they are unique yet loved by everyone, think about it, all great nights usually end with your favorite foods.
So there you have it, it’s not often that I talk about extra things to add to your budget rather than things you can do without but these are definitely some great alternatives. All of these options add to the feel of your reception and give your guests a little something extra to remember your special day by. It’s almost always the little things that separate your event from all of the others. Add one or more of these ideas to your wedding plans and make your event one that stands out from all the rest. Happy wedding planning!
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