What Food To Serve At Afternoon Wedding Reception?

The choice of food to serve at an afternoon wedding reception depends on your taste, theme, and budget, but here are some popular suggestions:

1. Afternoon Tea Reception: The classic English afternoon tea is a light meal typically eaten between 3.30 pm and 5 pm, which would be a perfect fit for an afternoon reception. This could include:

• Assorted sandwiches: cucumber, smoked salmon, egg and cress, ham, and cheese.
• Scones with clotted cream and jam.
• A selection of cakes and pastries.
• Variety of teas, coffee, and perhaps some champagne or prosecco.

2. Brunch or Lunch Reception: You might want to serve brunch or lunch for a slightly earlier reception. Here are some ideas:

• A salad station with various fresh vegetables, dressings, and toppings.
• Light main courses like chicken salad, pasta salad, quiche, or grilled fish.
• A carving station with roast beef, turkey, or ham.
• A dessert bar with cupcakes, fruit tarts, cookies, and brownies.
• Refreshing beverages like iced tea, lemonade, mimosa, or Bloody Mary cocktails.

3. Cocktail Reception: For a more casual, mingling-friendly atmosphere, a cocktail reception could work well:

• Various canapés and hors d’oeuvres that are easy to eat while standing.
• Cheese and charcuterie boards with assorted crackers and bread.
• Mini versions of your favorite dishes (“sliders”, mini tacos, mini quiches, etc.).
• A dessert bar with bite-sized sweets.
• A selection of wines, beers, and a few signature cocktails.

Remember, it’s your special day, so choose the food that you love, and that represents you as a couple. Catering to the dietary restrictions and allergies of your guests is also an important consideration.