Every once in a while, I come across an event that is so over-the-top and refreshing that it just has to be shared. This rustic wedding is one of them. Photos in this post are courtesy of Kate Osborn Photography. All of the recipes from desserts featured in this post are available in the cookbook, Finger Foods: Elegant Treats and Bite-Sized Eats for Every Occasion.
In early June, I was invited to provide desserts for a rustic wedding and reception at the top of Utah’s American Fork Canyon. Even in June, the weather in Utah canyons can be “dicey,” but the evening was absolutely perfect and the view of Timpanogos glacier and the surrounding forest nothing short of spectacular. As afternoon faded to evening, a generator (somewhat distant from the serving area to mask the noise), provided power for an extravagance of lights. What a setting! The bride and groom had actually snowshoed to the top of the canyon early in the spring to select the site – a group area with a covered pavilion and a large stone fire pit that they proceeded to transform into a rustic wedding venue.
The refreshments for the evening featured Hog Jowl and Butternut tacos provided by Black Sheep Cafe in Provo, Utah, kept hot over the coals in steaming Dutch ovens, and served buffet style. In addition, Salads and Cilantro Rice rounded out the menu.
But the dessert serving area for this rustic wedding was the centerpiece. Literally. The bride and groom had covered the central fire pit with a large round table and successively added layers and layers on which to display the desserts. Rustic logs, wildflowers displayed in cans and bottles, and other artifacts added to the ambiance. But the piece de resistance was the coffee filter “Chandelier,” constructed by the bride!
Crafted from coffee filters, this unique chandelier transformed a barbecue pit into a dessert serving area.
The setting for the event was a group picnic pavilion–a total departure from the typical, formal wedding venue.
Cafe lights added ambiance, especially as the sun set.
Rustic Wedding Dessert Buffet Ideas
Miniature strawberry shortcakes are delicious and make a stunning presentation at almost any event. Votive candle glasses are transformed into serving dishes, and we add a petite metallic miniature spoon to complete the look.
Bite-sized carrot cakes with classic cream cheese frosting. Can you say “yum?” Recipe is on page 106 of the “Finger Foods Cookbook.“
Another way to add class to an event is to serve refreshments with lots of color. These mini fruit tarts are a favorite not just because they are pretty, but also because they are delicious! Cookbook page 132.
Homemade lemon cookies added just the right touch of old-fashioned charm.
An eclectic array of “Finger Foods” desserts served on the circular buffet included “Chocolate Mousse Cups Supreme.” See page 25 of the cookbook.
The earth-toned decor was rustic and simple, which made the lavish desserts look just that much tastier! Tin cans filled with wildflowers and various-sized logs completed the look.
Leave a comment below and let us know which recipe you would like to see added to the blog first!
Joyce makes miracles come to life in the kitchen. She is class in everything she does. So glad she has been a part of our three children’s weddings. Thank you from our entire family!