Exquisite Party Platters for an Intimate Wedding Reception at Home

Summary

Hosting a wedding reception at home offers a unique opportunity to personalize the celebration with a variety of delectable party platters. Supermarkets often have Party Coordinators who can provide valuable advice on selecting and arranging pre-made and custom platters. From sushi to sub sandwiches, and from deviled eggs to a Mediterranean spread, the options are vast and can cater to all tastes. Crafting these platters at home not only adds a personal touch but also helps manage the wedding budget effectively.

Expert Assistance for Effortless Catering

Many large supermarkets feature Party Coordinators within their Deli departments who can offer expert advice on catering options for your event. These professionals can provide tips on which platters to purchase pre-prepared, ensuring a mix of convenience and quality. For instance, sushi trays, fully cooked meatballs, BBQ wings, and classic shrimp cocktail trays are popular choices that can be ordered ahead of time. Additionally, made-to-order sub sandwiches are a hit, available in various sizes to serve groups ranging from 10 to 30 guests. These sandwiches often include a selection of meats such as roast beef, ham, turkey, chopped ham, cotto salami, and beef bologna.

DIY Party Tray Inspirations

For those who prefer a hands-on approach, assembling party trays at home is a cost-effective way to cater to your guests. Here are some creative ideas:

Elegant Deviled Egg Display

• Deviled Egg Tray: Enhance the classic deviled egg by piping the yolk mixture with a cake decorating tip. Add a slice of olive for a garnish that's both tasty and visually appealing.

Mediterranean Feast

• Mediterranean Delight: Center your tray with a cup of creamy hummus, surrounded by roasted red peppers, Provolone cheese cubes, sliced salami, and a mix of Greek green and Kalamata olives. Edge the platter with small pita triangles for dipping.

Vibrant Vegetable Selections

• Vegetable Trays: Create a colorful array with a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, baby carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini sticks, and a trio of bell peppers.

Fresh Fruit Assortment

• Fruit Trays: Select seasonal fruits and consider serving them in a carved watermelon "boat" for a decorative touch. Options include pineapple, honeydew melon, strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, watermelon, peaches, grapes, and kiwi. To prevent browning, toss bananas and apples in a bit of lemon juice.

Cheese Platter Classics

• Classic Cheese Sampler: Place a small cheese ball at the center, surrounded by parsley. Arrange an assortment of cheeses such as hot pepper jack, Colby longhorn, Havarti, Colby jack, smoked cheddar, and imported Swiss in bite-sized cubes.

Delightful Finger Sandwiches

• Finger Sandwiches: Chicken and tuna sandwiches are party favorites. Present them on a platter, garnished with parsley and cherry tomatoes for an extra touch of elegance.

Interesting Stats and Trends

While the article provides a great starting point for party platters, there are some interesting trends and statistics in the world of wedding receptions and catering that are worth noting:

• According to The Knot's 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $28,000, with catering being one of the largest expenses. Opting for a home reception with DIY platters can significantly reduce this cost.
• A survey by WeddingWire reports that 20% of couples are choosing more casual reception styles, including at-home parties, which can be more affordable and intimate.
• The rise of dietary restrictions and preferences has led to an increase in demand for specialized catering options, such as gluten-free, vegan, and locally sourced ingredients, as noted by the Special Events 2020 Catering Trends Report.

When planning your wedding reception at home, consider these trends and work with your supermarket's Party Coordinator or a local caterer to ensure your menu accommodates all your guests' needs. For more inspiration on wedding catering, check out The Knot's catering ideas and WeddingWire's reception trends.