Incorporating Snacks and Beverages into a Wedding

When it comes to weddings, the food and drinks can elevate the experience, making it feel personalized, special, and memorable. Recently, I’ve been thinking about how to incorporate snacks and beverages in a way that reflects the couple’s personality while also catering to guests throughout the event. Here are some ideas I’ve brainstormed, pulling from past weddings and creative trends:

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Robyn Rachel Photography

**1. Welcome Snacks Upon Arrival**

I love the idea of offering guests something refreshing as soon as they arrive at the wedding venue. One wedding I planned included iced matcha lemonade served in mini glass jars with a custom monogram on the lid. We also set up a small snack station with local treats like bite-sized empanadas or plantain chips, especially for destination weddings where guests may want to experience the local flavors right away. It’s a thoughtful touch that immediately engages the senses and makes people feel welcome.

**2. Interactive Beverage Stations**

Instead of having the usual open bar, an interactive beverage station can be a fun way to make drinks part of the experience. One couple I worked with had a “build your own cocktail” bar where guests could select from fresh herbs, fruits, and mixers to create their own concoctions. Think rosemary-infused gin or jalapeño and cucumber margaritas. Another wedding featured a DIY bubble tea bar with different flavored teas, boba, and toppings—this one was a hit with both younger and older guests!

**3. Snack Stations at Cocktail Hour**

I’ve seen guests really appreciate light, creative snacks during cocktail hour, and it helps tide everyone over until the main meal. For instance, a couple who loved traveling set up “global snack stations” featuring mini tacos with salsa for a Mexican station, mini sushi rolls for a Japanese station, and prosciutto-wrapped breadsticks for an Italian corner. Having these options let guests sample a variety of foods without feeling overwhelmed.

**4. Signature Cocktails Paired with Late-Night Snacks**

Late-night snacks are always fun, especially if the wedding has gone on for hours and the guests are still dancing. I love when couples opt for something unexpected like mini sliders, gourmet popcorn, or truffle fries paired with their signature cocktails. At one wedding, the couple had espresso martinis served alongside tiny chocolate croissants as a nod to their Parisian honeymoon plans. Guests raved about it all night!

**5. Edible Favors to Take Home**

Edible favors are not only practical but a sweet way to end the night. I’ve helped couples give out personalized macarons or jars of locally sourced honey, each with a thank-you note attached. One particularly creative idea came from a couple who loved to hike—they gave each guest a custom trail mix blend in eco-friendly bags, with flavors like dark chocolate chunks, dried cranberries, and roasted almonds. The favors were delicious, on theme, and reminded guests of the couple’s adventurous side.

**6. Beverage Pairings at Dinner**

A more formal option is beverage pairings during the dinner courses. At a farm-to-table wedding I planned, the dinner featured seasonal dishes, and each course was paired with a carefully chosen wine or craft beer. For the dessert course, they offered dessert wines and a selection of herbal teas. I’ve also seen weddings that offer beer flights with a different brew for each course, which guests loved since it created a more immersive dining experience.

**7. Dessert Bar with Custom Drink Pairings**

One wedding I worked on had a stunning dessert bar that featured everything from cupcakes and macarons to artisanal donuts. They paired these treats with sweet cocktail options, like chocolate martinis and sparkling rosé. What really made it unique, though, was the “spiked milkshakes” bar, where guests could add their choice of liquor to different flavored milkshakes—vanilla, strawberry, or cookies & cream. The playful twist was a huge hit.

**8. Local or Themed Touches**

At destination weddings or those with a theme, including local snacks and drinks is an excellent way to incorporate the surrounding culture. For a wedding in Mexico City, I’ve included stations with fresh churros and a selection of dipping sauces (chocolate, caramel, and even a spicy option). Guests also loved the agua frescas bar, where they could choose from flavors like tamarind, hibiscus, and cucumber-lime. This not only highlighted the local flavors but gave the guests something refreshing throughout the day.

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Looking back, it’s clear how snacks and beverages can be more than just sustenance—they’re an opportunity to infuse personality and delight guests. Whether it’s through small, thoughtful snacks during different moments of the celebration or creative beverage pairings, these elements can really make a wedding day unforgettable.

The Evolution of Wedding Trends – A Planner's Reflection

Today, I’ve been reflecting on how much the wedding industry has changed, especially in the last few years. Being a wedding planner for as long as I have, you get used to trends coming and going, but what I’m seeing now feels different. It's not just about aesthetic changes or what's fashionable at the moment. Couples are thinking more deeply about the meaning behind their weddings, and it’s inspiring to watch these shifts unfold.

Take sustainability, for example. A few years ago, it might’ve been a bonus if a couple included eco-friendly elements, but now, it’s becoming a core part of how they plan. I had a couple recently who were adamant that their wedding leave as small a carbon footprint as possible. We sourced local flowers from a nearby farm, rented vintage furniture, and even used eco-friendly confetti made from dried flower petals. I love that couples are becoming more conscious of their impact and choosing to align their weddings with their values. It makes the planning process feel purposeful—like we’re creating something that not only celebrates their love but honors the world around them.

Another trend that I’ve really fallen in love with is the rise of micro-weddings. The pandemic may have kickstarted this, but it’s so much more than a necessity at this point. Micro-weddings feel intimate, personal, and incredibly special. There’s something magical about a smaller guest list—it allows couples to focus on the people who truly matter most. I remember a wedding I planned just a few months ago where only 15 guests were in attendance. It was held in the couple’s favorite bookstore, which we transformed into a cozy, romantic space with candles, fairy lights, and books scattered everywhere. After the ceremony, we hosted a private dinner with handwritten menus and personalized keepsakes for each guest. It felt like the wedding was a true reflection of the couple’s personality and story, and that’s what made it unforgettable.

Personalization is another area where weddings are evolving. It’s so exciting to work with couples who are eager to make their wedding uniquely theirs. No two weddings feel the same anymore, and I absolutely love that. I’ve worked with couples who’ve incorporated everything from their love of travel into their decor to custom cocktail menus inspired by their favorite cities. The possibilities seem endless. Just recently, I helped a couple integrate elements from both their cultural backgrounds into the ceremony and reception. They blended traditional customs with modern touches, and the result was not only beautiful but deeply meaningful to them and their families.

What’s fascinating is that weddings are no longer about sticking to a formula or adhering to a set list of expectations. They’re about storytelling. Whether it's through the venue choice, the food, the decor, or the guest experience, couples are finding new ways to make their big day an authentic reflection of who they are. It’s such an honor to be part of that process.

As I wrap up this entry, I’m struck by how fortunate I am to witness love being celebrated in so many unique and heartfelt ways. Every couple brings something new to the table, and it keeps me on my toes creatively. I’m looking forward to what the next wedding season will bring, but for now, I’m just grateful to be part of this beautiful, ever-changing industry.

-Sejal

Why Wedding Content Creators Are Skyrocketing in Popularity

Wedding content creators have become an exciting addition to the world of weddings, and as a planner, I can see why they’re resonating so much with couples. Far from being competition, these creators complement what we do, offering fresh perspectives and creative inspiration that make the wedding planning process even more enjoyable.

One of the reasons they’ve gained such popularity is the personalized touch they offer. Couples today are looking for ways to make their weddings uniquely their own, and content creators provide endless ideas to help achieve that. Whether it’s through DIY projects or unique styling tips, they’re fantastic at sparking creativity and helping couples think outside the box.

These creators are also incredibly accessible. They’re right there on your favorite social media platforms, sharing tips, answering questions, and engaging with their followers in real-time. This kind of direct interaction is something couples really appreciate, as it makes them feel more connected to the process.

Their role as trendsetters can’t be overlooked either. Content creators are often ahead of the curve when it comes to the latest wedding trends. Whether it’s sustainable practices, new decor styles, or innovative ways to incorporate personal touches, they keep the ideas flowing, which only enhances what we as planners can offer our clients.

I also love how these creators make inspiration so easy to find. Instead of sifting through endless websites or magazines, couples can find everything they need with just a few taps on their phones. From outfit ideas to venue decor, it’s all right there, helping couples visualize their dream day.

Representation is another area where wedding content creators are making a significant impact. They’re showcasing a wide range of love stories, which is incredibly important. From multicultural weddings to LGBTQ+ celebrations, they’re ensuring that every couple can find inspiration that resonates with them.

What’s great, too, is how they’re pulling back the curtain on the planning process. By sharing behind-the-scenes content, they’re helping couples understand the ins and outs of planning a wedding, making them feel more informed and confident in their decisions.

Visual storytelling is another strength of wedding content creators. They’re masters at capturing the emotions and beauty of weddings, which not only inspires couples but also adds a rich layer to the planning experience. These visuals help couples articulate their own vision, making our collaboration as planners even more seamless.

I also appreciate how they offer budget-friendly ideas without compromising on style. Not every couple has a large budget, and these creators are great at showing how to achieve a beautiful wedding on any scale. Their tips and tricks are a wonderful resource for both couples and planners alike.

Lastly, the sense of community that wedding content creators foster is truly special. Through hashtags, comments, and social media groups, they’re building supportive spaces where couples can connect and share their journeys. This community aspect adds an extra layer of support that enhances the overall wedding planning experience.

In the end, wedding content creators are a valuable part of the wedding ecosystem. They bring fresh ideas, inclusivity, and a sense of fun that only adds to the joy of planning a wedding. As a planner, I see them as partners in making each couple’s day as special and unique as possible.

Subtle Ways to Weave Wellness into Your Wedding Day

Hey Trendsetters,

Planning a wedding that’s all about good vibes, celeb-approved touches, and unforgettable memories? Let’s talk about how to infuse your big day with wellness in a way that’s cool, subtle, and totally on point. Here’s how to sprinkle in some self-care that feels authentic and super stylish.

1. Wellness Welcome Bags with Celebrity Flair

Kick things off with welcome bags that scream self-care chic. Forget basic gifts—go for items that your guests will actually love. Start with a mini **KORA Organics [Noni Glow Face Oil by Miranda Kerr. This travel-size oil will have your guests feeling fresh and glowy all day.

Pair it with Sweet Reason CBD-infused beverages(loved by celebs like Mandy Moore) to help your guests unwind. And don’t forget a pack of Moon Juice [SuperYou Supplements, a fave of Gwyneth Paltrow, to keep everyone’s stress levels in check.

2. Ceremony Vibes Inspired by Pop Culture

Your ceremony is where the magic happens, so why not make it extra special with wellness-inspired elements that are as iconic as your love story? Hand out small crystals from Kim Kardashian’s [SKIMS x Crystal Shop] (yes, she does crystals!) for guests to hold during the vows—adding a grounding element that’s both spiritual and stylish.

Or, consider kicking things off with a meditation led by Headspace—the app that’s backed by celebs like Emma Watson and has been a game-changer for mindfulness. It’s a great way to help everyone center themselves and be present in the moment.

3. Wellness Stations: The Ultimate Cool-Down Spot**

Set up a wellness station at your reception that’s as Instagrammable as it is relaxing. Picture a hydration station with **Coconut Water by Vita Coco**, endorsed by the likes of Rihanna, to keep everyone refreshed. Add in some Dirty Lemon [Beauty Elixirs], a go-to for celebs like Kylie Jenner, for a cool sip that’s all about that glow.

And for a creative twist, throw in **adult coloring books** from **Coloring & Cocktails**, a pop-culture-inspired brand that’s all about mixing art with fun. It’s a great way to keep the vibe chill while giving guests a creative outlet.

**Final Thoughts**

Bringing wellness into your wedding is all about those subtle yet impactful touches that make the day feel special and true to who you are. Whether it’s celeb-endorsed beauty products or a chill meditation moment, it’s the perfect way to ensure your wedding is as iconic as it is thoughtful.

I hope these ideas inspire you to add a touch of wellness to your big day, in a way that’s effortlessly cool. If you end up trying any of these, let me know—I’m always down to hear how it went!

Stay Fabulous!