Small Bites for Cocktail Hour: Our Favorite PNW Flavors

One of the many overlooked items on most wedding planning sheets seems to be the food during cocktail hour. It’s an absolute must to provide some sort of sustenance while your guests wait for the party to start; especially if you’re serving alcohol between your ceremony and reception. No one needs or wants Uncle Steve toasted before the toasts. So let’s dive into a topic that’s close to my heart (and stomach): small bites for cocktail hour that’ll have your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for more.

We’ve spent over a decade capturing the most intimate and heartwarming moments of couples’ big days, and we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a cocktail hour truly unforgettable. It’s easy to say:, it’s all about the food – those delectable, mouthwatering bites that keep your guests fueled and happy as they mingle, laugh, and celebrate love. Your cocktail hour bites really lend to the vibe of your wedding day. It’s a lead up to the main course, and can have your guests talking about your wedding for years to come.

For instance, Jenny + Albert’s cocktail hour changed my outlook on one of Jake’s favorite foods… the good ol’ can o’ SPAM. Growing up, we didn’t have this particular food in our house as my dad grew up on it and never wanted to see it again. So I’d always thought it was terrible for you and was never willing to try it. We actually had a whole joke about the only time Jake would get spam. It would be the day I served him with divorce papers, a Spam cookbook and a case of Spam from Costco. (It’s still a running joke that I’m not allowed to buy the SPAM, and Jake has to be the one to purchase it. LOL). But walking into Jenny + Albert’s cocktail hour hit us with the delicious smell of SPAM musubi. We didn’t get the chance to try any, as it was a major hit and gone within minutes, but I did come home and learn how to make it. Spam Musubi is now a staple in our household. 

Perfect Small Bites for Cocktail Hour

So, while your guests may not run out to buy the ingredients to recreate your cocktail hour bites, let’s explore some of our absolute favorite small bites for cocktail hour. You can serve hot bites or cold bites, just make sure they’re delicious!  

Bruschetta (Aka: Tiny Toasts)

Picture this – perfectly toasted bread topped with juicy, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic. Bruschetta is like a little slice of Italian heaven, bursting with flavor and freshness. It’s a timeless classic that never fails to impress. I’ve even seen a few amazing chef’s create some unique pairings, like topping the tiny toasts with a chopped caprese salad or shrimp ceviche. My personal favorite? Ditch the veggies all together and make it a PNW specialty with cream cheese, smoked salmon and capers. 

Mini Skewers

There’s something utterly charming about food on a stick, don’t you think? Just don’t let the little ones (or the big ones who love to play like little ones) run with them! Mini Caprese skewers are a delightful combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and vibrant basil leaves, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze. They’re like summer on a stick! Or you can get creative with other cheeses, olives, pepperoni and sausages. The combinations are endless, and mini skewers are adorable in little paper cones. 

The Incredible-Edible Egg

I don’t know about you, but every family dinner I attend has deviled eggs. Is there anything more retro-chic than a platter of perfectly crafted deviled eggs topped with avocado or capers? These little gems are the epitome of timeless elegance, with their creamy filling and delicate garnishes. Get wild and turn them into buns on your mini sliders. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to eat – no utensils required!

The Humble Mushroom

Mushrooms are a staple in our own household. They’re so unassuming, yet so incredibly versatile. You can grill and skewer them on your mini skewers, or use them as the means to getting the good stuff to your mouth. Classically stuffed with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and maybe a hint of garlic, these bite-sized delights are guaranteed to disappear in seconds. Add some flair to your stuffage with bacon, tomato sauce or even a bit of crab for a mouthwatering mixture. 

Mini Pizzas

While pizza may seem like a main course or late night snack, who can resist the allure of pizza, especially when it comes in adorable bite-sized form? Whether topped with gooey cheese and pepperoni or piled high with fresh veggies, miniature pizzas are always a hit at cocktail hour.

Mouthwatering Meatballs

Whether you prefer classic beef, spicy chicken, or veggie-packed lentil, meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Serve them up with a side of tangy marinara sauce or creamy aioli for dipping, and watch them disappear before your eyes.

I’m most definitely not a caterer, so these are just a few of the many small bites that can turn your cocktail hour into a culinary extravaganza. The key is to choose a variety of flavors, textures, and colors to keep your guests’ taste buds tingling and their plates full. Be sure to allow your caterers the ability to express their creative side and you’ll be amazed at how wonderful your cocktail hour small bites are. So let’s raise a toast to love, laughter, and the joy of sharing good food with good friends. Here’s to making magic together, one bite at a time! Cheers!