The average total cost of a wedding in the U.S. exceeded $25,000 in 2017 and food ranked among the top budget items. Given the price tag on your big day, you should have what you want, the way you want it. That’s why many couples are opting to host outdoor wedding receptions that give brides and grooms the flexibility you deserve.

• Fresh Fruit
• Fresh Veggie Platter
• Shrimp Cocktail
• Mini Gazpacho Soups
• Mini Sliders with Craft Beer Tastings
• Persimmons and Goat Cheese Wrapped with Prosciutto
• Stuffed Peppers
• Fried Mac n Cheese Bites
• Waffle Bites
• Snacks Wrapped in Bacon

Outdoor wedding receptions don’t lock you into the venue’s space, menu and kitchen. They give couples the ability to hire a caterer who can deliver a menu that fits their lifestyle and budget. Whether you hold the reception on family property or overlooking a stunning view, the food you serve to friends and family members will leave a lasting impact. We hope you will consider these outdoor reception menu ideas that our Rochester, N.Y., catering organization can deliver.

Serve Memorable Appetizers

Wedding days can be long, and guests will not always have time to grab a snack to hold them over until the reception dinner is served. Having a diverse appetizer service that includes simple but tasty bite-sized appetizers can be a lifesaver. These are some wedding reception appetizers that are widely considered crowd-pleasers.

• Sushi Station
• Prime Rib Station
• Carved Turkey
• Raw Bar
• Caprese Salad Station
• Fresh Green Salad Station
• Pasta and Sauce Station
• Build-Your-Own-Sandwich Station
• Gourmet Pizza Station
• Grill-To-Order Station

Delicious outdoor reception appetizers allow you to wow guests when they arrive without filling them up. Portions, options and budgetary considerations are key things to discuss with a catering professional when crafting a reception menu.

Offer Guests Exciting Entrée Options

One of the great things about hosting an outdoor wedding reception is that the environment allows guests to move about more freely. That sense of freedom segues naturally into setting up buffet stations that let guests choose their preferred entrée. Customization is king when hosting an outdoor wedding reception, and these are popular buffet-style food items to consider.

• Sushi Station Prime Rib Station
• Carved Turkey Raw Bar
• Caprese Salad Station
• Fresh Green Salad Station
• Pasta and Sauce Station
• Build-Your-Own-Sandwich Station
• Gourmet Pizza Station
• Grill-To-Order Station

Offering multiple non-traditional entrée options tends to pleasantly surprise people attending your blessed event. By gathering friends, family and loved ones outdoors, you have a terrific opportunity to think outside the box with an experienced caterer. Just imagine what the dessert station could look like!

If you are considering an outdoor wedding reception, contact Chef’s Catering in Rochester, NY, and let’s make memories.