Of all the delicious wedding food ideas around at the moment, we are utterly in love with grazing tables, and we think you will be too!
Ladies and gentlemen… say hello to wedding grazing tables. These show-stoppers come laden with all your favourite things and whether you set one up instead of serving canapés or in lieu of your evening food, these cool, casual and super social tables are going to attract attention for all the right reasons. Read on to find out more about grazing tables for weddings.
Wedding grazing tables
So, exactly what is a grazing table? Well, it’s a table full of all the savoury treats that your guests will want to sample. Cheeses, charcuterie, antipasti, breads, nuts and even fruits, vegetables, dips and chutneys can all feature. Choose food that will give your guests lots of options when it comes to flavours and textures and remember that the foods will be sat out for a while, so go for goodies that are best eaten at room temperature and won’t go off quickly.
Image courtesy of Tara Milk Tea
The idea is that guests get involved, grab their favourite delicacies and enjoy. However, what really makes grazing tables special is that they look so amazing. There’s an abundance of goodies for your guests to choose from and, when they’re set up well, they become part foodie indulgence, part decorative installation. A great grazing table is positively groaning with fab foods so pile on the platters for a real sharing feast!
Image courtesy of Brigitte & Thierry Photography
Grazing tables are also super flexible because they can become part of your day at any time. Some couples start their post ceremony celebrations or cocktail hour with a gorgeous grazing table whilst others use them as a fabulous sharing ‘starter’ to their wedding breakfast. Of course, grazing tables are also perfect evening food options – guests can take a break from the dancefloor whenever they like to fill a plate with all their favourite foods.
Image courtesy of Elena Popa
If you want to include seasonal or local produce in your wedding, grazing tables let you do this with ease. Local breads, cheeses, cold meats and even chutneys and honey can all work, so talk to your caterer or venue to find out which local suppliers you can support. Similarly, go down the seasonal route and pick what’s best for the time of year you are getting married.
Finally, think about how you’re going to style your table. Chunky woods, chalkboards and handwritten signage all complement a rustic or country wedding. Alternatively, for an elegant look, add crisp table linen, glassware and gorgeous china bowls, dishes and platters. It’s really important that you talk about the look that you want with your venue or caterer so that you’re as blown away by your wedding grazing table as your guests will be.
Image courtesy of Tiffany Keal Creative Studio
Wedding food ideas
If your stomach is already rumbling at the thought of grazing tables at your wedding, then here are a few ideas that you’re sure to love.
Set up your grazing table outside so that guests can help themselves during your drinks reception. We adore the colours on this table!
Image courtesy of Your Platter Matters
Use lots of stands and dishes to create height and interest.
Image courtesy of Pinterest
Add some simple vases of flowers to your display to make it look extra special and think about pre-cutting cheeses and hams so that it’s easy for guests to take what they want.
Image courtesy of Sunny Coastlines
In summer, what could be better than including lots of fresh fruits?
Image courtesy of Platter & Graze
Your grazing table doesn’t HAVE to be a table – use old barrels, pallets or crates if you want to mix things up.
Image courtesy of Kelsie Low Photography
Create shapes and patterns with crackers, rounds of cheese and dips hidden in amongst olives and fruits.
Image courtesy of The Food Girls Pantry
Add a bit of personality with some cool signage.
Image courtesy of Bianca Hawk
We love the little bottles of fizz and the photos that have been added to this yummy table.
Image courtesy of Tuula Vintage
The styling here is just fantastic. The white cloth and the cool signage look great together!
Image courtesy of Grazing Acres
Everyone loves fresh bread and the crate of just-baked bread on this table is sure to be a big hit. Your catering team can keep this topped up too.
Image courtesy of Savour and Grace
Don’t forget to include plenty of serving spoons and knives – you don’t want anyone double-dipping!
Image courtesy of Miranda Stokkel
For a ‘green’ grazing table, use recyclable or bamboo plates and wooden cutlery that can also be recycled.
Image courtesy of Kieran Moore Photography
If you’re now thinking about your wedding food and drink, take a look at these must-ask questions for your wedding caterers.