Wedding Reception Ideas

When the ceremony ends, the party begins. Give your matrimonial menus a twist with these food-focused reception ideas. "Open bar" doesn't just apply to beer and wine anymore.

Give your guests the option of dining with Southern style. Offer a shrimp and grits bar with additives like chives, cheese, green onions, spinach, and Andouille sausage for an extra kick.

Try a grownup grilled cheese bar for a winter wedding. Give guests the options of goat cheese or cheddar cheese paired various veggies. Add a side of warm tomato bisque for added comfort.

For winter or summer weddings alike, nothing is better than a biscuit bar. Take our five-ingredient buttermilk biscuit recipe and dress it up with an array of jams, preserves, honey, and butter.

As the essence of comfort cuisine, macaroni and cheese bars are a growing trend on matrimonial menus. Start with your standard mac and cheese, while giving guests the choice of vegetables—mushrooms, avocado, tomatoes, basil, red peppers, etc.—or meat—steak, bacon, or crab—to get creative with this classic.

This ubiquitous side dish is easily updated with options of fresh herbs, garlic, cheese, bacon, and chives. Serve in a cup or martini glass for an elegant affair or a mason jar for a downhome feel.

Try a sweeter side item that rivals your dazzling desserts. A sweet potato bar with the options of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon is sure to have guests swooning before they even see the cake.

For a dry wedding, try a popsicle hour rather than a cocktail hour. These Instant Watermelon Pops are fuss-free, affordable, and refreshing for a sweltering summer soiree.

If you are planning to dance the night away, provide guests with a gourmet coffee bar so they stay caffeinated and the party lives on.

See the Southern Living Wedding Planner and Keepsake for even more wedding planning tips and ideas. Click here to order the Southern Living Wedding Planner and Keepsake