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Feast without (Too-Much) Fuss: Trendy Yet Affordable Reception Food Options

At T-Rise Ranch we believe that your wedding day should be a celebration of love, not a financial burden. That's why we're thrilled to share our top picks for trendy yet affordable reception food options that will wow your guests without breaking the bank.


1. Small Plates: Embrace the trend of small plates with a tapas-style reception. Serve up an assortment of dishes like ham and cheese croquettes, braized pork nachos, taquitos, and chorizo bites. Serve up classics like mini meatballs, stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, and cheese platters. These bite-sized delights are perfect for mingling and dancing the night away and remember, a little goes a long way.


2. Slider Bar:  Sliders are the epitome of fun and versatility and they're easy on the budget too. Set up a slider bar with an assortment of mini burgers, pulled pork sliders, and veggie burgers. Add a selection of gourmet toppings, sauces, and cheese for guests to customize their creations and you’re assured to hit a home-run!



3. DIY Taco Bar: Let your guests get creative with a DIY taco bar featuring an array of fillings, toppings, and sauces. Offer options like seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, grilled vegetables, and black beans, along with toppings like salsa, guacamole, cheese, and sour cream. It's a fun and budget-friendly way to cater to diverse tastes.


4. Pasta, Pasta, and Maybe Some More Pasta: Host a pasta bar with a selection of noodles, sauces, and toppings for guests to mix and match. From classic marinara and creamy Alfredo to savory pesto and spicy arrabbiata, the options are endless. Serve with garlic bread and salad for a satisfying and very budget-friendly meal while adding an upscale and luxurious feel to the evening.


5. Food Truck Fiesta: Embrace the food truck trend by hiring a few local favorites to cater your reception. From tacos and sliders to gourmet grilled cheese and artisanal pizzas, there's something for every palate. Guests will love the variety and casual vibe. At T-Rise Ranch, we have the perfect location for food truck set-up and easy access to  guests.

 

6. DIY Grazing Tables: Create stunning grazing tables filled with an assortment of cheeses, meats,

fruits, nuts, dips, and crackers. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also encourage mingling and conversation throughout the evening. Plus, you can save money by sourcing ingredients from local markets or wholesale stores.

 

7. Coffee or Hot Chocolate Bar:  Set up a coffee bar complete with flavorings and special creamers for an inexpensive and pampering experience for your guests. And that dash of caffeine may give your guests the extra encouragement needed to get out on the dance floor and celebrate!


8. Sweet Treats: Skip the fancy expensive cake or scale it down a notch and end the night on a sweet note with a dessert buffet featuring an assortment of treats like mini cupcakes, cookies, brownies, and donuts. Create a build your own waffle station with fun and inexpensive toppings like sprinkles, chocolate sauce and peanut butter. An ice-cream or yogurt and pudding bar with various flavors, add-ins and toppings are also great wallet friendly indulgences.


Remember, it's not about how much you spend on food—it's about creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests. With these trendy and affordable reception food ideas, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. Give us a call or text at 918-240-9438 to schedule a tour of T-Rise Ranch and let us show you what we can offer for your special day! Happy Planning!