7 Great Appetizers to Offer Guests Before the Wedding Reception

I just came from a wedding at the Westin in Detroit, Michigan. It started at about 5pm in the evening and the reception was soon to follow. It was a beautiful wedding and I'm glad that I was able to go, but I know given the events of the day I was quite hungry. After the wedding we were escorted downstairs to the convention level where there was music playing and waiters passing out light appetizers. Can you say, "thank you Jesus!" You could also get a beverage from the bar if you were thirsty; they offered alcoholic as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Needless to say by that time I was very appreciative of the appetizers and the waiters.

For about an hour the appetizers kept coming out and you could dine before the reception and mingle with the guests who were in attendance. It was a great atmosphere for an event like this and I know I enjoyed those shrimp egg rolls and chicken appetizers that seemed to flow like a waterfall. If I had it to do all over again, I would consider a venue like that and I might even consider having a "pre-reception" event where people can just mingle and have fun.

For those of you who are having an event like this, you may be trying to figure out what to offer your guests. I know given that we were in a hotel that the menu was probably fixed and/or you had a limited selection as far as appetizer options. I want to give you some suggestions as far as appetizers you can offer your guests before the main reception that will take the edge off the hunger...

Egg Rolls - the most common ones are shrimp or vegetable. Consider both for those who may be allergic to shellfish.

Wingettes - you have many options here. You can do BBQ, Jerk, buffalo, plain, or any other assortment of flavoring that you desire.

Crab Rangoon - if you're not familiar with this one it's basically crabmeat with cream cheese in a fried wonton wrapper.

Vegetables with dressing - yes, the traditional celery, carrots, broccoli and cauliflower with ranch dressing or perhaps Italian dressing

Cheese - provolone, swiss, Colby, cheddar... there are a number of cheese options you can have

Meatballs with sauce - you can have turkey or beef meatballs for this option. The only thing I'd be hesitant about is that the sauce may be a bit messy.

Sliced fruit - a classic favorite of sliced pineapple, apple, grapes, strawberries, blueberries, and honeydew for a healthy appetizer option