Personalize Your Reception by Creating a "Couple's Signature"

Creating a couple's signature as a surprise during the Wedding Reception is a great way to add a personal touch to a traditional or "out of the box" reception. The details are important, and noticed by all the guests. Of course, they take in the color scheme and the centerpieces, but they absolutely notice what they put in their mouth! So I can hear the questions - how do we accomplish a surprise using food? Easy - just use a little artistic thinking.

Jaime and Michael had a traditional family, so we needed to accommodate them with tasty, yet customary cuisine for their plated dinner. We developed a three-course custom menu that would create conversation amongst the tables. As guests entered the reception, they couldn't help but notice the crystals and orchids hanging high on the table centers. The ambiance was perfect for the fall theme--a clear chill in the air, mood lighting, espresso brown pintuck linens, deep winter orchids by Lee Forrest Design and of course a few hors 'd oeuvres and beverages from the pre-reception.

Once the guests were seated, the first course was presented. Our team worked the room, serving shots of soup and a petite sandwich to each guest. We got creative with the serving style and the taste as we alternated flavors at the table. One guest received a Butternut Squash Soup Shooter with a Mini Havarti and Apple-Wood Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Panini, the other received a Tomato Basil Soup Shooter with a Mini Portabello, Roasted Pepper and Olive Tapenade Panini.

As the second course was served, the guests couldn't help but notice that something was missing from their salad, as they only recieved a wedge of lettuce. Once the whole table was served their individual wedge, the team served a platter of all the fixings: chopped bacon, diced tomatoes, bleu cheese dressing and champagne vinaigrette - all the accompaniments to the couple's favorite wedge salad at a local Italian restaurant. The final courses were full of flavor and expertly presented, while still maintaining a traditional feel.

Bronwyn and Michael had a great background to work with for their Wedding Reception, as Bronwyn’s Family was from South Africa, and Michael’s family from Trinidad. In our planning session we decided to feature Trinidad cuisine during their station-style reception. They wanted the entire reception to feel like a party, so station were really the only way to go. Guests were welcomed with Pewter Pintuck linens, White Chiavari Chairs and stunning arrangements by Lee Forrest Design. The toast was delivered, and the party began!

Stations were arranged in several areas throughout the room. An Elaborate Pasta Station with Chicken, Shrimp and Sausage among a table variety of appetizers from Crab Cakes to Chicken Marsala Brochettes. The second station of Trinidadian cuisine featured Roti and Curry lamb – a traditional Trini meal. Of course the family was excited to have one of their favorite lamb preparations, but the real thrill was among Bronwyn and Michaels American friends as they experienced the Trini cuisine.

The more I hear the reception cuisine referred to as “Wedding Food” the more creative I want them to become! We cannot simply refer to it as “Wedding Food” as it is much more than that - it's part of the design and ambiance of a very special day in your life. Just remember, a personalized "surprise" adds a special touch that will be remembered for years to come.

Heidi Brice, Senior Special Event Planner

407.398.6301 | heidi@puffnstuff.com