Carving Stations for Cocktails

When planning the hors d'oeuvres for your cocktail hour, consider offering a variety of ways to entice your guest's palette.  Carving stations are one really cool way for guests to interact plus have a say about what they are eating in regards to cooking temperature.  This carving station created for one of our events focuses on Prime Rib and was paired with delicious Pretzel Bread. 

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - www.RushPhotoVideo.com)

Dressing Those "Other" Reception Tables

When it's time to discuss linens for your wedding or event with the catering or banquet manager, the main focus tends to be the guest tables and head or sweetheart table.  These tables, along with the centerpiece, become the main focus for reception shots capturing the details of your wedding.  But in tying to create a cohesive environment, don't forget the other tables within the reception space.  Take a look at the list of those "other" tables:

Below are tables that you don't want to forget to cover at your wedding reception or event.  Although these tables can use a less expensive linen, you want to make sure they still match and work within the enviornment you are creating.

• Cocktail - hiboys and cabaret tables
• Buffet or Station tables
• Escort Card table
• Gift table
• Cake table
• Sweet and Dessert tables
• Coffee and Tea station tables
• Bars
• DJ table

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Rush Event Photography and Videography Productions)

What About Those Cocktail Napkins?

Cocktail napkins are a fun staple to consider for your wedding reception.  They can be placed at the bar and on the serving trays as the servers pass around hors d'oeuvres.  But they also add a signature statement to your reception.  Rather you use your wedding monogram or add a giddy phrase, cocktail napkins are one of the least expensive ways to add customization to your day.  Check out some of these fun and whimsical cocktail napkins.

You can easily order cocktail napkins from the following locations not only for your wedding, but for any event:
Dejanae Events for Carlson Craft
Oriental Trading
Wedding Paper Divas

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits - Dejanae Events; thepaperhat; Favors and Flowers; Paper Source)

WGC Partyscape: Cocktail With Details

I had the most fabulous team of vendors to help me in creating my latest Partyscape for Wedding Guide Chicago which I titled "Cocktails With Details".  The inspiration comes from an increase in the number of cocktail receptions to celebrate a couples wedding nuptials. Rich colors, gorgeous flowers and delicious desserts makes this style of reception over-the-top fabulous! Take a look:

I'd like to personally thank my team of vendors for bringing this vision to life:

Location: Eaglewood Resort & Spa		Photography: Artistic PhotoGraphics		Floral Design: Jane's Blue Iris
Cake: Luscious Layers Bakery		Invitations & Favors: CT-Designs & Calligraphy		Tableware & China: Classic Party Rentals		Linens: Classic Party Rentals
Videography: Wedding Connections

Look for our newest Partyscape coming to Wedding Guide Chicago in December!!!
 
Until next time...WEDologize!

Cocktail Reception Planning

The cocktail-style reception is a GREAT alternative to the traditional full-meal reception.  It's a cost saver if nothing else, but there are some things to consider when planning this type of reception for your wedding guests:

• Cocktail receptions are more relaxed and you don't have to worry about a seating chart. But consider a few reserved seats for the elderly guests that will be attending.
• When designing the cocktail reception space, bring in a mixture of hi-boy and low-boy tables with chairs and some lounge furniture like couches and ottomans.  You do not need to provide seating for all your invited guests.  The idea is for them to move around.
• Food service should consist of stations and passed hors d'oeuvres and plan for at least 10 pieces per guest.
• I suggest you hold your cocktail reception for no longer than 3-hours. That way, guests won't be looking for a full meal.
• When designing your wedding invitation, let your guests know the style of reception by stating, "Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres following ceremony".  That way, they can plan accordingly.
• Eliminate many of the formalities - 1st dance, cake cutting, parents/family dances, toasts - or have them done early before to avoid breaks in the party.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Brides.com | an Colin Cowie Event)