When it comes to planning a memorable wedding reception or post-wedding brunch, many couples are turning to the popular weekend meal of brunch as inspiration. This laid-back yet elegant gathering has become a favorite among young people, making it an excellent choice for wedding celebrations.
Whether you’re hosting a destination wedding or welcoming out-of-town guests, a post-wedding brunch provides a wonderful opportunity to bring everyone together one last time.
And for those couples who want to make their special day even more unique, a brunch-themed wedding reception is the perfect way to go.
When planning your menu, decor, and overall atmosphere, consider these top-notch brunch ideas. From mouth-watering food options to refreshing cocktails and thoughtful decorations, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to make your wedding brunch an unforgettable experience.
Mimosa Bar
Transform the traditional after-wedding brunch with a twist by serving champagne and orange juice together to create elegant mimosas. This classic combination is sure to impress your loved ones as you celebrate this special occasion. To take it to the next level, set up a mimosa bar where guests can craft their own signature cocktails! Offer a variety of juices, such as orange, grapefruit, cranberry, mango, or other flavors of choice, along with champagne bottles.
To add an extra touch of flair, provide some garnishes for guests to customize their mimosas and make the experience even more memorable.
Donut Wall
At modern weddings, donut walls have become a popular trend for adding a playful touch to the dessert table. These sweet displays not only provide a delightful treat for guests but also serve as unique favors that can be taken home. The affection for donuts is undeniable – some couples even opt for a donut wedding cake instead of the traditional one, showcasing their creativity and love for this beloved pastry.
By incorporating donut walls into your celebration, you can infuse your event with a vibrant atmosphere and create unforgettable memories for your loved ones.
Tea Party
Transform your wedding brunch into a whimsical affair by embracing a tea party theme. Drawing inspiration from the elegance of high society, a tea party-inspired spread can evoke the sophisticated atmosphere of a royal wedding. Alternatively, you could opt for an Alice in Wonderland twist, transporting your guests to a fantastical world of curiosity and wonder. To bring this unique concept to life, pair delicate teas with an assortment of finger foods that are as dainty as they are delicious.
Cereal Bar & Flavored Milk
For couples who share a love for sugary cereals, consider setting up a cereal bar with a variety of flavored milks. To ensure inclusivity, be sure to offer non-dairy milk alternatives as well. This nostalgic food station is not only a crowd-pleaser but also easy on the budget. Consider pairing it with other stations, such as an omelette bar or bagel spread, for a comprehensive and engaging wedding brunch menu.
Bacon Everything
When planning a memorable wedding brunch, it’s essential to include a key component that elevates the experience: bacon. This savory breakfast staple is a crowd-pleaser, and its smoky flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving a generous amount of crispy bacon alongside your brunch offerings for a delightful surprise. Alternatively, you could take things up a notch by presenting bacon-wrapped hors d’oeuvres as an elegant twist on the classic breakfast meat.
Parfaits
Yogurt parfaits have earned their place as a popular breakfast option, particularly well-suited for Sunday brunch gatherings. By incorporating a delicate layer of angel food cake, these parfaits can be effortlessly elevated to suit even the most discerning palate, making them an ideal choice for special occasions like weddings.
Bagel Bar
Consider setting up various stations that offer distinct flavor profiles for your bagels, accompanied by a variety of toppings such as cream cheese and smoked salmon. This setup allows guests to sample multiple options, making it an extremely popular choice among attendees. To further enhance the experience, consider incorporating toasters at each station to freshly toast bagel halves or slices. This thoughtful touch adds an extra layer of convenience and delight for your guests.
Waffle Bar
Elevate your brunch game by offering a build-your-own waffle bar or pancake bar. For added convenience, consider hiring a catering staff member to craft custom waffles for guests at the wedding. Alternatively, if you’re opting for a self-service model, create a clear signage with instructions and ensure guest safety by providing plenty of toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, and more.
Brunch Table Decor
To elevate the ambiance at your wedding brunch, consider incorporating stunning florals and decorative elements that reflect your personal style. Vibrant fruits and berries arranged artfully on platters or bowls will not only add a pop of color but also bring a refreshing touch to the table. To maintain a clean and elegant appearance, opt for serving food on crisp linens instead of paper plates or plastic containers.
As every detail matters when it comes to making a lasting impression on your guests, be sure to put thought into the overall aesthetic you want to create. And if you have another theme in mind, feel free to weave that into your brunch setup to make it an even more memorable experience for your loved ones.
Bloody Mary Bar
As the morning after a lively night approaches, consider serving Bloody Marys to help your guests recover from their revelry. This iconic brunch drink is only eclipsed in popularity by mimosas, making it an excellent choice for a post-party gathering.
To take your Bloody Mary bar to the next level, be sure to stock up on vodka, Bloody Mary mix (or its individual components: tomato juice, hot sauce, lemon, and Worcestershire sauce), and a variety of toppings such as olives, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy celery, and tangy pickles. With these essentials at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to craft an array of delicious and unique Bloody Marys that are sure to impress your guests.
Avocado Toast
Avocados have become a staple component in many modern brunch offerings, and for good reason. Their creamy texture, nutty flavor, and impressive nutritional profile make them an ideal addition to any meal, particularly during the weekend’s leisurely gatherings with friends. By featuring avocado toast on your menu, you’re sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Finger Sandwiches
When planning a sophisticated brunch, consider incorporating a high tea service that features an assortment of dainty finger sandwiches. These bite-sized treats should be both flavorful and visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to your morning gathering.
Crepe Cake
Consider deviating from the conventional wedding cake by serving a crepe-based dessert at your brunch. This unconventional approach will undoubtedly impress your guests with its visually appealing appearance and delectable flavors. While it may not be a traditional wedding cake, it’s certainly an innovative and memorable choice. For an equally unique experience, consider replacing the crepes with pancakes instead.
To elevate this alternative wedding cake, top it with fresh fruit, flavored syrups, and other creative toppings that your guests will surely enjoy.
Coffee Bar
Elevate the morning vibe at your wedding brunch by incorporating a coffee cart into the festivities. Consider pairing it with sweet treats like coffee cake or even partnering with a popular coffee brand to offer a unique experience. With the mimosa bar, bloody bar, and now a coffee station, you’ll have a comprehensive drink selection that’s sure to please your guests on your special day.
Brunch Cocktail Station
When it comes to crafting the perfect brunch menu, one key element is incorporating refreshing cocktails that cater to your guests’ tastes. Consider including classic options like screwdrivers, bellinis, and mimosas, which are sure to be a hit with their citrusy flavors. To take things to the next level, why not create a lively atmosphere by serving a variety of drinks that will have everyone eager to get up and dance?
Omelette Station
When it comes to hosting a memorable wedding brunch, Chef Chelo’s Instagram post offers a creative solution for catering: an omelette bar! This interactive food station allows guests to customize their own omelettes with pre-chopped veggies and other toppings, making for a quick and delicious meal. With the help of experienced caterers, the possibilities are endless, as each guest can create their perfect omelette to fit their unique tastes and preferences.
Pastries
To elevate your wedding brunch menu, consider incorporating a variety of sweet and savory pastries, fresh fruit, and condiments. This self-serve approach allows guests to indulge in their favorite treats while mingling with ease. When planning a brunch wedding, it’s essential to determine if an early morning ceremony aligns with your style. If you and your partner are morning people, a breakfast-themed wedding could be a lovely way to start the day.
Conversely, if you’re evening-oriented, this might not be the best fit for your special day. The timing of your wedding can also impact venue booking, so be sure to consider this when making arrangements. If you adore brunch and think an early morning wedding is romantic, serving your favorite breakfast dishes could be a delightful way to celebrate. On the other hand, if you prefer a later evening affair, a brunch wedding might not be the most suitable option.
In some cases, couples opt for a ‘farewell brunch’ the day after their evening reception, allowing them to spend more time with loved ones who attended their wedding. This relaxed gathering can take place at a venue or even a local brunch spot, often without the need for formal invitations and RSVPs. Whether you choose a morning wedding or an afternoon farewell brunch, both options can be elegant extensions to your wedding celebrations.
Timing
When it comes to planning a brunch wedding, timing is everything. For an ideal reception time, consider hosting the event between 11am and 2pm. If you’re having a ceremony beforehand, an afternoon brunch served after the ceremony makes sense. On the other hand, if your wedding ceremony takes place in the morning and you’re opting for an after-wedding brunch the following day, anytime between 11am and the afternoon is suitable.
Keep in mind that scheduling the brunch too early (before 11am) might not be ideal, as some guests may not be ready to handle heavy food and cocktails just yet. Typically, an after-wedding brunch lasts around two hours. If you had a late night the day before, consider being considerate of your guests’ needs and schedule the brunch later in the day – from 1pm until 3pm, for instance. Don’t forget to send out wake-up calls the next morning to ensure everyone is ready to celebrate with you!
Planning
When it comes to planning an after-wedding brunch, it’s common for the newlyweds’ families or the couple themselves to take the lead. However, if the couple is opting for a honeymoon immediately following the wedding, a brunch might not be feasible. In these cases, they’ll likely focus on spending quality time with their loved ones during the reception instead.
The bride and groom typically use this opportunity to mingle with close friends and family who were in attendance at the wedding, fostering a sense of community and celebration following the big day.
Invites
The guest list for an after-wedding brunch often hinges on the couple’s budget, with some opting to invite a large portion of their wedding party if feasible, while others prefer to keep it intimate by only inviting closest friends and family members. A key consideration is ensuring that both sides of the family are represented in equal measure, so that neither side feels slighted or left out.
Decide on a Location
For couples planning an extravagant post-wedding brunch, renting a venue similar to the wedding reception can be a great option. This setup allows for a more comprehensive and catered experience, perfect for larger gatherings or those seeking a tailored menu. Alternatively, if your guest list is modest enough, consider hosting your brunch at a specific restaurant of your choice.
When selecting a restaurant, ensure that it permits decoration and adjustments with the help of your wedding planner to guarantee the event aligns with your vision. By doing so, you’ll be able to craft an unforgettable experience for your loved ones.
Plan the Menu
When planning the final details of your wedding brunch, the menu takes center stage. This is often the most enjoyable part of the process, as there are countless delectable options to choose from! To ensure your guests leave feeling satisfied and energized, consider offering a variety of breakfast-inspired dishes that cater to diverse tastes. Don’t forget to include refreshing brunch cocktails for your adult guests, allowing them to indulge in some well-deserved celebration time.
While incorporating cakes into your wedding brunch is certainly an option, it’s not a necessity. A modest one-tier wedding cake can provide a lovely touch of elegance without overwhelming the overall atmosphere.
Attire
In reality, brides rarely don their ceremony wedding attire to brunches. Instead, they opt for shorter, less elaborate dresses. Grooms and groomsmen typically dress in lighter-hued suits, maintaining a formal yet understated air. Guests are encouraged to adopt a more relaxed approach while still respecting the occasion’s formality. Clothing choices should align with the restaurant’s ambiance; if it’s a fancy spot, feel free to dress up a notch.
For women, sundresses or casual-chic ensembles work well. Men can opt for button-down shirts without worrying about ties, unless, of course, you’re at an upscale brunch venue.
