Just the mere thought of a relaxed, delicious brunch makes us feel, well, dreamy, wouldn’t you agree? So when it’s time to narrow down a time of day to celebrate your marriage, think more on the early side, and you might be pleasantly surprised by the possibilities.
While marrying earlier in the day may make booking vendors a bit easier, couples aren’t viewing it as simply as cost effective; rather, a brunch reception becomes more of a chance to create a low-key, relaxed feel that’s comfortable for guests of all ages. Two to four hours is typical, say 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., but a stylish brunch can certainly begin earlier if needed, and keep in mind there are countless ways to personalize a cute coffee bar!
At the Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City in Arlington, VA, a brunch is one of their favorite reception styles, and Director of Catering Carole Sala illustrates the perfect scenario.
“You plan the ceremony and wedding for around “brunch” time, then everyone later changes to more casual clothes and enjoys a laid-back event that evening,” says Carole. “Think about an Old Town Trolley excursion or a moonlit tour of the city.”
For sure, an earlier celebration offers you more quality time with your families and other out-of-town guests, and a fun opportunity to show off the beautiful sights around DC on your actual wedding day, not the day before when there’s the hustle and bustle of details and preparations.
For sure, an earlier celebration offers you more quality time with your families and other out-of-town guests, and a fun opportunity to show off the beautiful sights around DC on your actual wedding day, not the day before when there’s the hustle and bustle of details and preparations.
“Brunch weddings are certainly evolving among our clientele of all ages,” explains Carole, saying they are “becoming” the new great thing to set your celebration apart from everyone else’s big day.
Although you may not plan for a party band and endless hours of dancing, you can still spice up the festivities with a Bloody Mary bar, mimosa bar, bellinis, or a screwdriver station, or simply serve a good amount of bubbly with your brunch fare.
Carole says she’s also seeing more attention brought to the table settings – personalized linens or china, more exotic florals – when there’s less of the overall budget being spent on entertainment.
“For a brunch reception it’s more about the look and feel of the overall event,” says Carole. It’s personal, it’s feminine, and it’s unmistakably elegant. Depending on the size of your guest list, the Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City can accommodate a brunch celebration anywhere from the Plaza or Grand Ballrooms to the Diplomat or Ambassador Rooms.
Then there’s the true centerpiece – the glorious food. Typically served family style for a comfortable ambiance, treat your guests to a mouth-watering lineup of egg dishes, pancake or French toast stations, smoked salmon, even crab cakes. Veggie and egg-filled frittatas are always a brunch favorite, as are bite-size pastries or fruit-filled gourmet pizzas. Besides your alcoholic beverages, always include a variety of coffee and tea selections – including a light peach tea or other seasonal blend for summer months -- as well as freshly squeezed juices.
Last but not least – dream big -- perhaps a wedding cake made of waffles? The sweet possibilities are endless!
(Sample Menu)
To Start
Lemon Ricotta Pancake Stack, Blueberry Compote
American Sturgeon Caviar, Crispy Potato Cake, Crème Fraîche
Espresso Scented Pain Perdu, Dulce de Leche
Salad
Greens, Ice Wine Macerated Strawberries, Candied Pecans, Watermelon Radish, Vinaigrette
Entrees
Berkshire Pork, Morel and Wild Ramp, Goat Cheese Omelet
Maryland Crab Cake Benedict, Old Bay Hollandaise
Pecan Crusted Chicken Breast, Stone Ground Grits, Braised Swiss Chard, Maple-Bourbon Jus
Dessert
Griddle Cake, Raspberry Thyme Coulis
Lavender Doughnut Bites
Leave A Comment