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.