Done and done. 20. 15. Be careful with thesemake sure to leave room for dinner! Tray passed espresso shots might be our favorite on the list just because it is so unique and a great way to keep the celebration going. Gardens, whether public or private, offer a beautiful backdrop for spring and summer post-wedding brunches. Soft pretzel stand. Keep the season in mind as you plan your wedding hors doeuvres. Who doesnt love churros?! 25 Pretty Bridal Shower Food and Drink Ideas, 20 Winter Wedding Menu Ideas That Will Impress Your Guests, 20 Hors DOeuvres That Only Look Expensive, According to Top Chefs, 10 Fun Spring Wedding Dessert Ideas That Arent Cake, 8 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding Food, Best Meal Delivery Services for Busy Couples, A Bright, Multicultural Celebration in the Mountains of Baja California, 17 Grazing Table Ideas for a Gorgeous Spread, What to Feed the Bridal Party While Getting Ready for Your Wedding. These tiny iterations were spiked with skewers for more demure bites. These assorted Korean rice cakes made the ideal tasty snack during the Paebaek ceremony at this multicultural celebration. "Aleah and Nick Valley, Founders, Valley & Company Events, "From an oyster roast or to an aprs ski cocktail party, welcome your guests in style by connecting over an activity that is meaningful to you as a couple. Many offer farm-to-table ingredients, stunning forest views, and even some animal encounters. Theyre beautiful, spacious, and include high-quality restaurants on site. You could even create a build-your-own popcorn bar with sweet, salty, and savory add-ons. At professional golfer Lanto Griffins wedding, his loved ones slurped down Arnold Palmerscomplete with a golf ball-shaped ice cubebefore the ceremony. Make sure to plan for a little extra time if the location is not within ten minutes of the venue or if you have a large family and wedding party. Whether you're planning a weekend of activities or simply want to welcome guests with celebration the evening before the reception, these ideas are sure to wow your attendees. A cheese platter, like this one from Boxcarr Handmade Cheese, packed with all your favorites is a satisfying way to refuel and recharge as the night goes on. Kick off the celebration with these refreshing drinks and satisfying snacks. This is one of the best wedding reception food menu ideas because it includes favorites like meats and cheeses, crackers, and fruits. Add some cinnamon-sugar sweetness to your dessert spread by offering tiny churros. Would you like fries with your reception? Check Details. Another excellent option for summer nuptials, fresh cucumber slices with raw salmon are easy to prepare and can be customized for any taste. Tea-length dresses and Sunday suits with florals or other colorful patterns are welcome at semi-formal post-wedding brunches. Pick your favorite flavors, incorporate your wedding color palette, and you're good to go. 23. Served in real coconuts engraved with your custom crest, these beverages will supplement a tropical beachside bash by using elements grown in the natural environment. Their Asian "night market" table included treats like scallion pancakes, spring rolls, and sesame balls. "We love an abbreviated welcome party after your rehearsal dinner that's got a laid-back and casual vibe. The Carats & Cake network was built to connect affluent couples with elite vendors and venues, and is now supporting premium vendors with elegant business tools, exclusive media opportunities, and targeted cross-channel exposure. The beauty of kabob skewers is two-fold. Jess Levin is the founder & CEO of Carats & Cake, a premier network representing the best in the wedding industry. Many couples use the phrase rise and shine on their brunch invitations along with the date, time, location, and RSVP instructions. Are y'all having food for your bridal party before the ceremony on your wedding day? We love the way they display on a simple cedar wood cutting board. Stick to classy-yet-understated garments, such as jumpsuits and dresses, that directly match your wedding colors for a put-together look. Boat shoes, colorful pants, and button-downs will fit in well at an after-wedding brunch. First up on our list of wedding midnight snack ideas are options that dont just serve as food, but double as party favors, too! Falafel balls served on rustic wooden trays were the delectable choice during cocktail hour at this San Diego wedding. Serve these saucy bites on skewers so your guests can hold their drink in one hand and go for seconds with the other. Scallops are already finger-food sized and always a hit for some cocktail hour grazing. A native of Laguna Beach, California, Jess attended the University of Pennsylvania before heading to New York to work in venture capital at Burch Creative Capital, where she helped manage investments and brand development for a portfolio that includes Poppin and Tory Burch, LLC. You can also honor your venue location by incorporating local ingredients, such as coconut water at tropical bashes on the beach or slices of citrus fruit at a soire in Florida. Take a look at our list of affordable wedding gifts for guests to ensure that they all know how grateful you are that theyre a part of the most special day of your lives. Since your friends and family will be grazing on tasty goodies all day and night, serving refreshments before your vow exchange isnt a requirement. Is there anything more tempting than a late-night scoop of your favorite ice cream? "Chelsey Morrison, Owner + Principal Designer & Planner, Gather Together Events, "Many venues offer interactive, unexpected experiences such as cooking classes or wine or spirits tastings that could be a fun alternative to a traditional welcome cocktail party. If youre looking for an upscale hors d'oeuvre to distribute at your pre-ceremony cocktail hour, caviar will do the trick. "Britt Cole and Francie Dorman, Founders, 42 North, "Turn your welcome party into 'drinks and dessert' for your guests. These are caprese boats, but the same idea could be used for salad favorites like caesar, Greek, or Cobb. Perfect for a pre-ceremony snack, small popcorn bags will keep your attendees satisfied until it's time for more. Ice cream sandwiches. We love how this fresh snack is light enough to indulge in several skewers. Here's how to do chips and salsa the easy way: Fill scoopable tortilla chips with fresh pico de gallo for grab-and-go snacking. Full-size ice cream cones can get messy as soon as things start to melt, but these bite-sized versions make it easy to enjoy a scoop or two of your favorite flavor. They're also a great way to transition into awedding after-partyif you're planning to host one. 10 Fun Spring Wedding Dessert Ideas That Arent Cake, 20 Mobile Cocktail Bar Truck Ideas Guaranteed to Make a Splash at Your Wedding, 28 Festive Winter Wedding Ideas to Inspire Your Own Cold-Weather Celebration, The Best Signature Wedding Cocktails Made With Gin, 75 Unique Wedding Ideas to Wow Your Guests, The 3 Best Winter Cocktails of 2022 (and All The Gear You Need to Make Them), The 18 Best Places to Buy Gift Baskets for Any Occasion of 2023, 10 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding Alcohol, The 25 Best Valentine's Day Gifts for Him of 2023, 28 Late-Night Wedding Snacks to Serve on the Dance Floor, The 18 Best Bridal Shower Hostess Gifts That She'll Love, The 48 Best Bridal Shower Gifts for the Bride of 2023. We love farms and ranches for after-wedding brunch venues. These tasty bites make the perfect addition to a backyard barbeque-themed wedding. Do you and your significant other frequent late-night McDonalds runs? And second, theyre incredibly easy to eat! These from Sweet and Saucy Shop might be too pretty to eatbut we'd try them anyway. Another flavorful bite for warmer seasons or climates is a lobster roll. For a light bite with a sweet taste, serve bowls of fresh fruit. Add a touch of nostalgia to your wedding food with the ultimate classic: milk and cookies. Use your serving details (in this case, painted imitation oyster shells) to add color to appetizers like these seared sea scallops. Pizza. We especially love how Gardener Ranch has set up their outdoor event space. Whether you choose a sandwich box with chips and a cookie or an In-N-Out burger box with fries, we love the idea of having a mini-meal boxed up and ready for guests to grab on their way out. Meant as a symbol of good luck, it is not to be taken off, and only needs to unravel by itself eventually. It's so much more festive than serving them plated. Charcuterie boards have been a trending party appetizer for years now. Make any outfit more casual and fitting for an informal event by adding a jean jacket, ankle boots, or open-toe sandals. If you're incorporating anydance floor traditionsinto your wedding reception, such as the garter or bouquet toss, we'd suggest serving the late-night snacks after those take place. Hoping to have your snack options and favors do double duty? Set your guests up with everything they'll need so they can make their own at your venue's fire pit. After-brunch wedding venues like the Historic Rosemont also offer luxury amenities such as valet parking, 60 acres of breathtaking outdoor space, and fireplaces. The Royce Brook Golf Club has great views, a Koi pond, and an outdoor patio too. Offer an option of roasted beet tartare. Getting ready to go to Vegas for a wedding and the bride is wanting to have a few people in her room for a small celebration after the ceremony. These favors were paper-covered boxes of local chocolate from Thorncrest Farm & Milk House Chocolates. These bite-size lobster rolls are perfect for a New England weddingor for North Easterners who want to bring a little taste of home to their far-flung reception. To-go cake. One handheld treat that will always make a late-night snack bar look extra pretty? Create a custom dessert display of the bride and groom's favorite treats, which allows your guests to indulge while learning more about the two of you. Mini milkshake shots, complete with chocolate chip cookie dippers, will satisfy everyone's sweet tooth at the end of your big day. This breakfast-inspired wedding finger food idea would be perfect for a daytime reception or brunch bridal shower. Popcorn. Consider ordering individual meals from a caterer and serving them in picnic baskets, like this duo did here. Organize a game night for all your guests and appeal to everyone's competitive nature. This appetizer is loaded with protein and nutrients that will fuel your guests for a long day of festivities. Get creative and switch up the fruits being served on each skewer. We also answer frequently asked questions about after-wedding brunches to have you well on your way to planning an unforgettable post-wedding celebration. A bite-sized version of the classic spectator's snack, pretzels with a cheesy dip is salty and satisfying. 19. Baked potato bar. If you're having a rustic outdoor wedding, look no further than this BBQ-inspired wedding finger food idea. Create a unique snack bar with both sweet and regular potatoes, a variety of cheeses, bacon bits, chives, and even throw some veggies in there for good measure! Youll also want to impress your guests with surprising, unexpected food presentations. Burger truck. Wedding receptions are a party after all, especially if you've booked a good band or DJ but despite the fun, late-night weddings can leave guests exhausted. It's a great way to greet your guests as they arrive and a wonderful place for friends and family to meet up during down time throughout your wedding weekend. Guests at this charming fall wedding took home late-night snacks of pumpkin bread from a local baker, Bee's Bake Shop. Here are Some of Our Favorite Wedding Snack Ideas: Charcuterie table - To avoid spreading germs, create individual charcuterie cones Food truck - Everyone loves a food truck, no matter what kind of food the truck serves. A sweet offering like this can be served as cocktail hour finger food or mini dessert bites. "Calista Osborn, Founder, Calista & Co. "Everybody loves a little competition! To recreate that exciting and comforting experience at your own wedding, pass out boxes of popcorn before you recite your promises. Kick the presentation up a notch by serving them standing up on small pegs. The Wedding Spot blog is designed to help couples navigate every step of the wedding planning journey. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. In what some have already dubbed this year's royal wedding, Sofia Richie and Elliot Grainge exchanged vows at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes on Saturday . White chocolate dipped Oreos. Sliders are one of the most classic wedding finger food ideas. Hand pies. Bed and breakfasts are perfect for post-wedding brunches. For fun, picnic vibes, offer up some finger food fried chicken. Post-wedding brunches are great for couples who want to spend some more quality time with loved ones and keep the party going a little longer after the wedding is over. When the bridegroom arrives at the bride's house, after he has paid ransom for his bride, the bride and bridegroom perform this ritual together, in front of both of their parents. Potsticker Spoons Whether you choose beef, chicken or veggie, single-serve potstickers in a bamboo or plastic stiletto serving spoon with a splash of broth will be a big hit. 11. 7. Serve beef sliders open-face on a biscuit to show off all their savory goodness. 2. If you plan to host your brunch at a beach but dont want to get too chilly, try a public beach that has fire pits so everyone stays toasty. This couple has it all figured out. If youre working with a restaurant or venue with catering, try to include sandwich and salad options, too. This is a total hit for any French-style affair. The light and healthy snack is a choice that everyone can enjoy and is especially great for vegetarian or vegan guests. You may choose to insert the maps into the ceremony programs, or, if you want to provide more lead time, include them in the invitations. Grazing Table. Especially if you have guests traveling for your celebration, this is a nice, causal way to welcome everyone to your wedding weekend. 10. 13. Picture this: Regular fries, sweet potato fries, yucca fries, and then a variety of spices and sauces so each guest can customize their ultimate fry fantasy. Consider having a grazing table at the wedding reception. Biscuit bar. You can also add lemon wedges or slices of orange to incorporate a variety of flavors. Bite-sized foods and party foods, like mini hot dogs, slices of pizza, french fries, and doughnuts are some of the most popular wedding finger foodideas, but this is an opportunity to get creative and serve any snack that you simply can't do without on your big day. Out: The bride must wear white. Bar Munchies Kabob skewers. "Heather Sherrill, Production Manager, Aster & Park Events. For better or for worse, it's a proven fact thatyour guests will remember the foodyou serve at your wedding, so it's important to spend some time creating a wedding menu that everyone will love (no pressure!). Their snacks-turned-favors were inspired by a favorite local restaurant, and featured chocolate bars and white petit fours with a chocolate monogram from Lisa Dupar Catering. Lobster rolls are an unexpected hors d'oeuvre all on their own, but these tiny versions kick it up a notch. Spruce up a buffet table with fresh florals and color-coordinating serving props. This all-around favorite will please any palate during cocktail hour. Give your loved ones a sweet surprise at the reception with a chocolate-inspired seating chart like this one; a rich bite was placed next to each guest's name at this party catered by Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Oysters don't suit your fancy? 5. Cocktail hour is what transforms your wedding from a solemn ceremony to a full-scale soiree, so you'll want to do it right. Cotton candy. So instead of serving cake earlier in the night, save it and send it home with guests as they leave the reception. Were obsessed with this one. She has written for Bon Apptit, Sunset, and Shape. The best part about quinoa is you can add in whatever you want for a bespoke salad. After all, those 60-plus minutes following the ceremony are a chance for guests to mix and mingle while sipping cocktails and sampling a wide variety of foods. You can also use the containers to incorporate your joint monogram or display your wedding hashtag. It's okay if most of your weddingguests are already on the dance floor or out of their seats by the time you bring out the goodsthe extra treats will take them by surprise, which is half the fun! Even though its an extra event to plan and (usually) pay for, its a great opportunity to connect with close friends and family in a relaxed atmosphere. 3. Summer rolls are a refreshing, nutritious choice that will keep guests super happy during a hot wedding cocktail hour. Fried mac 'n' cheese lollipops? If youre making it official any time from June and August, a citrus drink will quench your guests thirst and nod to the season. Popcorn is a nostalgic snack that calls up memories of snacking on the crunchy, buttery treat while sitting in a dark theater, watching a new movie unfold. The Inn at Fernbrook Farms supplied these sweet treats for the couple and their guests to indulge in on the dance floor. This makes an especially great option if you know some of your guests will have food restrictions. Here, it's mixed in single-serving salads with shaved daikon, radishes, cucumbers, jalapeos, and ponzu. How Many Appetizers Should We Offer During Cocktail Hour? Festive paper cones with fries and personalized packets of popcorn made the cocktail hour snacks compact enough to tote around, while milkshake shots, gelato carts, and churro donuts showed up the classic wedding cake. Let your guests pick out their donut of choice from individual cubbyholes. Festive paper cones with fries and personalized packets of popcorn made the cocktail hour snacks compact enough to tote around, while milkshake shots, gelato carts, and churro donuts showed up the classic wedding cake . So, we're going to have a small civil service at the house on a Saturday afternoon (2pm), followed by essentially a light appetizers only reception/cocktail party. These antipasto charcuterie cones, a twist on the charcuterie board dreamed up by Lon Lane's Inspired Occasions, will please celebrants. This decadent concoction is impressive in presentation and flavor. 14. Before that, "W edding dresses in Europe actually came in all sorts of colors," etiquette expert Nick Leighton, co-host of the "Were You Raised By Wolves" podcast, told HuffPost. For example, instead of serving mac n' cheese in ramekins, you could deep-fry a bite-size portion and serve it on a lollipop stick. Waffles aren't just for weekend breakfasts: Serve bite-sized varieties, with dollops of sour cream, corn, and cilantro, during cocktail hour. 18. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. To make the most of this and other similar venues, inquire about furniture rentals or public picnic tables ahead of time so you dont have to worry about seating at your event. Avocado toast is always tasty, but when served on mini slices of toasted bruschetta? Sprinkle in some snacks guests can take on the go if theyre in a hurry to catch a flight out the next day. One-bite snacks are always a win with cocktail party hors doeuvres. For all other decor elements, consider what you and your guests will feel up to after your big day. and to say farewell to guests who may be heading home. They'll feel welcomed even if you skip the more of a traditional welcome party. 15. This set-up, complete with berry almond parfaits, churro donuts, and cookies, was created by Hey There, Cupcake. These bites are the perfect balance of sweet and smoky. Pro tip: Choosing varieties grown locally will give you the highest-quality flavors. French fry bar. Another amazing option if youre looking for a wedding midnight snack idea that is super customizable.