Bacon Explosion

Is it me or is there bacon everywhere? Bacon is apparently a growing trend. I have seen everything from Bacon Martinis to Bacon Ice Cream. Now those are a little over the top for me, however I am willing to try these tasty Maple and Bacon cookies.

The smoky profile of bacon against the sweetness of maple seems delicious, and not in an off-putting, ironic sort of way. (If you like your pancakes stacked with bacon and smothered in maple syrup, the pairing is a no-brainer.)

I recommend 410 Degrees to any bride looking for delectable welcome basket fillers or wedding favors. Additionally, it would be a surprising and scrumptious addition to a dessert table or for a brunch-time reception (if you want, company owner Adam Koven will work with you on customizing the packaging). For those still wary of meat in their sweets, 410 Degrees also offers a line of signature cookies that ranges from the conventional (maple-oatmeal and PB Overload) to the more daring (lemon-basil and cinnamon roll), and additionally offers the option to create your own Frankencookie. (Coconut cookie dough with dried pineapple chunks and Caramelo candy bits is on my wish list of combinations to try—might be that tropical honeymoon I'm dreaming about right now). All available online for $24 per dozen, plus shipping and handling.

Little White Dress

In ready to wear, everyone knows they need a LBD (little black dress), well now in bridal with all the events one must attend—rehearsal dinner, reception, honeymoon, etc., all brides need a little white dress. Jessica Ciarla has created the most darling collection of white cocktail dresses to help you make it through the week of events. In her new Alice Collection for Ciarla, you're sure to find the perfect rehearsal dress (or reception dancing dress). With rosettes, ruffles, illusion necklines—these dresses are adorable!! She also has some very sweet bridesmaid dresses. Check out her site at ciarla.com.

Let them eat Cheesecake!

You gotta love this idea: Cheesecake Wedding Cake. Available in different flavors, cheesecakes can be frosted with cream cheese icing (to look more like a traditional wedding cake) or left plain and decorated with fresh fruit or fowers. Yum!

Edible decor...two purpose, one element!

Food is the center of all occassions, why not make it the centerpiece? There are a few things that make edible centerpieces such a great idea. For one thing, they are different than the usual flower displays. Your guests will find them to be a fun and fresh look. Also, if you have really beautiful tasty treats on the tables, their mouths will be watering in anticipation!

Chic Seats...

Every bride wants her wedding to be special and sophisticated, while showing her sense of style and reflect the theme or vision she has for her wedding. The reception chair is often the most neglected aspect of wedding preparations because the soon-to-be-wed couples have so many other details that this one seems to be overlooked. If you are looking for the "Wow" factor, the Chameleon Chair Collection is ideal for the casual to the most sophisticated wedding. Offering trendsetting and competitively priced designs reflecting versatility and luxury, Chameleon’s elegance and comfort is unsurpassed!

Let go of my Eggo!

Looking for something different and out the box for your reception? One delicious dessert option is a Belgian waffle bar -- perfect for a nighttime reception but also a great daytime-appropriate option. Rather than doing the full-on, plate-size kind, keep the fluffy creations about the size of an Eggo waffle. Offer guests a buffet of build-it-yourself toppings like fresh whipped cream, hot maple syrup, fresh berries, and melted chocolate for a treat that's guaranteed to please.

Get your Java on!

Specialty coffee drinks are not only the hottest rage in the country, but it is a healthy and socially responsible alternative or addition to serving alcohol. An espresso bar can provide a cosmopolitan touch of elegance as well as a sophisticated flair to the reception.

An espresso bar caterer should be able to provide your event a full menu of espresso beverages made from high quality, fresh coffee and milks, a professional server (referred to as a 'barista') and the equipment and ability to serve your guests quickly and with flair.

Here's our list of what to look for and what to ask for.

What to Look For:

They should have professional commercial espresso machines (not retail, home units)
The barista should be professional having worked or working in an espresso café.
The espresso caterer should provide setup service prior to guest arrival in the area of service.
The menu should offer a variety of espresso drinks such as cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and flavored drinks.

What to Ask For:
Where do you purchase your coffee from?
Is your coffee source a roaster or a wholesale distributor? How fresh is the coffee?
What kind of espresso machine(s) do you have available?
Is your machine mounted on a cart? What does it look like?
If your machine is not on a cart does it require a special table? Do you provide it?
What are your electrical (voltage and amperage) and water requirements?
Will you offer nonfat or low fat milk? Hot chocolate?
What Italian syrups do you provide for making flavored lattes and mochas?
If we require your servers (baristas) to stay longer can that be arranged?
Do you charge by the hour or by the number of guests?
Do you offer all your drinks in decaf?
Do you offer whip cream?
How are your barites dressed?
What does your espresso station look like and how much space does it take up?
Do you charge for setup and delivery?
What is your minimum service time?

Espresso and specialty coffee is not a fad, it is a lifestyle that says quality not quantity. Nonetheless it is still new to many Americans and therefore not everyone will want a cappuccino or mocha, in fact, in some areas of the country where espresso coffee is still very new only a fraction of the guests will order a drink. However those that do will greatly appreciate the service and probably have more than one drink. If there are children and young teens request that hot chocolate, steamers and Italian sodas be available. (Italian soda is a tall drink of soda water with Italian fruit flavor syrups served over ice.) In fact for hot spring and summer weddings request that the menu include iced espresso drinks; they are delicious and extremely refreshing.