How’s this for a new twist on wedding receptions? Not quite buffet style, not sit down style, not quite a cocktail party, but some of all three. Seating is casual, not place card dictated, and as each table fills with guests, beautiful little platters are placed for them to enjoy; antipasto, little pizzas, skewers, cold marinated shrimp and veggies; you get the idea. A continuous supply of little plates and forks should be replenished, and of course, wine should flow freely. The overall effect is that of a wonderful cocktail party with enough food to be dinner, served in a joyous, comfortable atmosphere of abundance and hospitality. What could be better?

(This beautiful antipasto platter is from the famous market, “Arthur Avenue”, in the Bronx, NY.)