Grazing Tables

Grazing Tables

An Unforgettable Foodie Feast

Words by Samantha Simma

When it comes to modern wedding receptions, couples are finding creative ways to shake up the traditional sit-down dinner. Grazing tables, with their versatility and casual elegance, have soared in popularity. This approach allows guests to move around freely, selecting their favorite bites while mingling with friends and family. 

“Grazing tables, or food stations, are a less formal way of having a meal,” explains Betsy Kelsik, director of sales and catering at Provisions. “They’re really suitable for things like welcome parties, brunches, or social hours.” 

These abundant, beautifully styled spreads are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Perfect for encouraging guests to mingle and sample a variety of flavors, grazing tables can serve as hors d’oeuvres, dessert, or even the main meal. 

One of the greatest advantages of implementing a grazing table is variety. Guests are no longer limited to a set menu, but can, instead, sample a wide range of dishes, from savory to sweet. This approach accommodates different tastes and dietary needs, making it a great choice for a wedding with a diverse guest list. Plus, the exquisite presentation — a large table overflowing with artfully arranged foods — is sure to become a foodie focal point and conversation starter.

A Tried-and-True Presentation

For couples who want to stick with tradition while still embracing a modern flair, charcuterie boards are a timeless choice. These artfully assembled spreads typically feature a mix of cured meats, cheeses, crackers, nuts, fruits, olives, and spreads. The beauty of a charcuterie table is its flexibility — you can opt for a rustic look by offering the cured basics situated on wooden boards or you can choose something more refined, such as sleek marble platters that feature gourmet selections like truffle-infused cheeses or smoked specialty meats.

To enhance the Teton experience, consider offering a variety of locally inspired accompaniments, such as honeycomb, fig jam, artisanal sausages, or huckleberry preserves. 

“We’ve also seen a lot more of an interactive trend,” notes Jen Givens, vice president of sales and events at Fine Dining Restaurant Group, “that might include mozzarella being pulled right in front of the guests with all of these different toppings that they can choose from.”

A Barbecue Sampling

For couples hosting a more laid-back, outdoor celebration, a barbecue-themed grazing table is an excellent choice. Think chicken kebabs, grilled sausages, pulled pork sliders, and skewered veggies — all easy-to-eat items that can be served warm or cold. A barbecue table perfectly suits a backyard reception or a barn wedding, adding a cozy, comforting vibe that makes guests feel right at home. To elevate the experience, offer a variety of sauces and condiments. From spicy barbecue sauce to tangy mustard and aioli, a variety of dips and spreads adds yet another layer of flavor to the meal. Include some light, fresh sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables to balance out the heartier items.

A Mediterranean Spread

With more people adopting plant-based diets, a Mediterranean spread ensures all guests feel included. 

“We’ve done a Mediterranean grazing table with different hummus, dips, veggies, and pita,” Kelsik recalls. “You want a lot of color variation. For example, hummus is often a boring beige color, but we’ll add beet hummus for a nice bright pink or red color. And then you have your colorful vegetables. Variations in shapes, textures, scale, and height really help the visual appeal.”

Create an authentic, and yummy, presentation by added items like souvlaki or shawarma kebabs, accompanied by naan bread, baba ganoush, tzatziki sauce, and veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, topped off with feta cheese.

A Sweet Sendoff

Don’t let the grazing stop at dinner time — follow it up with a spread of sweet treats.  

“We’ve done stations with little truffles, baklava, mini cream puffs, crème brûlée … just smaller desserts served on various platters,” says Kelsik. “It’s more fun and casual than a plated traditional dessert.” She adds, “Our biggest hit is the donut wall — we offer all different flavors and colors of Provisions donuts and make it look really beautiful.” 

For an interactive component, incorporate build-your-own options into your dessert bar, such as sundaes or s’mores. This element adds a touch of whimsy and fun to the reception, especially for younger guests — or the young at heart!

To prevent crowding, Givens says, “We found that putting out various seating options — maybe with four or five chairs — encourages people to grab food and sit down. Also, having a scattering of high cocktail tables encourages guests to congregate around those tables to eat and chat while standing.” 

This dynamic dining style breaks away from the formality of plated meals, creating a more relaxed, interactive atmosphere. It also checks all the boxes, as a grazing table encourages mingling around a stunning centerpiece and can cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.