A refreshing and nice treat to add to your reception cocktail hour is beautifully displayed fresh fruit bar. Guests can get a glass of champagne from the bar then walk a few feet to an array of fresh blueberries, strawberries, grapes, cranberries, pineapple, etc. to drop into their glass. Also available on the display are fresh carafes of a few fruit juices that go perfectly in champagne such as pomegranate, cranberry, and of course, orange. This could spread over two or three tables to give the full effect. Add your theme decor and display in layers or on tiered dessert trays. For a final touch, add Grenadine for those that want to sweeten their sip.
How is this budget-conscious? It’s a heck of a lot less money that offering open bar. If it is in your budget, offer champagne only during the cocktail hour. Some chilled glasses can be set up on the fruit bar table. You can negotiate with the caterer/venue on buying it by the bottle. Also this, there is no need to get Champagne. Sparking Wine (just not made in Champagne, France) is just fine. If the budget doesn’t allow, cash bar is also just fine. The fruit assortment doesn’t necessarily have to be for champagne, but for any adult bevie. I would not promote that you have a “Champagne Bar” if you are not offering the champagne to go with it. Leaving it more of a “garnishment” bar doesn’t make it awkward.
Photo credit: Jamie Sanders – Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom
Photo credit: Ailia’s Catering Events Inc.
