Baltimore Bride – July 2019

BALTIMORE | 67 | WEDDINGS

Belly Up to the Bar

Overstuffed graze boards are

becoming the appetizer du jour.

Guests can nibble on meats,

cheeses, fruits, nuts, crackers,

and vegetables at their leisure.

They leave guests satisfied but

still able to eat dinner.

Tales from the

Cocktail Hour

Cocktail culture shows no sign of slowing down, as venues and caterers continue to honor

requests for a signature cocktail and even a “his and hers” (or “his and his” or “hers and

hers”) drink for weddings. And yes, we know—the wedding is all about you, but keep in

mind that a majority of your guests might not want something that challenges the palate

too much, which is why some of the more basic cocktails, such as variations on a Moscow

Mule, are popular right now. Whiskey punches are also having a moment, as are drinks

that focus on seasonal ingredients. Emily Howell at The Corner Pantry says using edible

flowers in ice cubes or cocktail garnishes that echo what’s tucked into the bride’s bouquet

are other ways to unify details throughout the event. - Rina Rapuano

When you’re spending all this time

and money to create a memorable

experience, you don’t want to ruin

your chances of making a banging

first impression. Perhaps that’s why

Celeste Bendetti, a partner with

Rouge Fine Catering, says many

brides and grooms care more about

the cocktail hour than the dinner.

Over the years she has seen the

welcome drink transform into a wel-

come food and drink pairing, such

as a tequila bar alongside nachos

or fresh salsas and guacamole. She

says local influences are another

big trend, for example a slider with

fries paired with a Natty Boh shot

or the ever-popular Baltimorean

staples Orange Crushes and Black-

Eyed Susans. The pre-reception

can extend even beyond the food.

In warmer weather, keeping folks

occupied with lawn games such as

cornhole and croquet is another

step toward cocktail hour nirvana.

Cocktails inspired by your wedding.

Graze Board

GUNDALOW GOURMET

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

KATE GREWAL, KATE GREWAL, STACY ZARIN GOLDBERG

BY RINA RAPUANO