Offer a variety of
samplings so that guests
have a chance to try new
things, while being able to
fall back on old favorites.
Everyone doesn’t have to
like everything, but there
should still be something
for everyone.
CACHET PHOTOGRAPHY
GO RAW
Exquisite raw bars never go out of style but have gone
beyond the traditional chilled steamed shrimp to include
Thai grilled shrimp, native oysters on the half shell topped
with dollops of caviar, lobster rolls dipped in lemon zest
and spicy tuna wrapped around daikon sprouts. Smoked
seafood is always delicious offered with fresh-baked breads
and crispy crackers. Fresh seafood is so versatile that it
lends itself beautifully to any style or theme you may have
in mind from Asian fusion to French Provencal.
GO MEDITERRANEAN
A fairly new trend is toward the always-delicious foods of
Italy. An Italian-inspired buffet is wonderfully suited to an
outdoor summer wedding but moves indoors without a
hitch. "Our Tuscan Table is set up as an hors d'oeuvres station. You'll delight in a medley of olives, stuffed and plain;
marinated mushrooms; marinated artichokes; grilled red
and yellow peppers; tomato mozzarella salad and grilled
parmesan pita chips. To accompany the Tuscan Table ask for
a station of imported and domestic cheeses with fresh seasonal fruits" explains Donna Andrews, Function
Coordinator at The Georgetown Club, 978-352-8777.
A panini bar is also very current. If your cocktail hour is
going to be extended, serve tiny grilled panini sandwiches
that are made to order. Guests select their fillings from a cornucopia of cheeses and exotic meats while servers, clad in
long white aprons, assemble and press the sandwiches. Tables
loaded with antipasto platters and freshly baked breadsticks,
marinated roasted vegetables and brushcetta stand nearby
for guests to nosh on while awaiting their little sandwiches.
FROM SIMPLE TO SUBLIME
Your cocktail hour is the first impression guests will have of
your reception and you want them to be delighted. Still you
don't want to overwhelm them with too many choices or
have them so stuffed on starters that the sumptuous meal
you have arranged goes to waste. Select a small sampling of
three or four truly elegant and unique appetizers. Take the
time to do some research of different appetizer menus and
to discuss options with your catering team. To give your
guests a real treat, find out what's new and trendy in the
world of appetizers. They may taste something they would
never have tried before. You can achieve the elegance and
impact you are seeking for your reception with a few
upgrades and a little knowledge of current trends.
