The welcome aperitivo, the Italian drinks reception, opens the reception. Guests arrive from the ceremony, eat standing and, meanwhile, the couple have their photos taken. At weddings it often lasts between an hour and an hour and a half, which is why it should be counted as a proper course.
The most common format mixes food stations (cheese, fried bites, raw seafood, sushi) and finger food passed round by waiters with tray service. If the aperitivo is long and generous, dinner can start with the pasta course and a starter at the table becomes unnecessary.
What to ask
Ask in writing how many pieces per person are planned, how many stations and staff, which drinks. Outdoors, from May to September, shade, cool water and a plan B matter. Ideas and quantities are in the guide to the wedding aperitivo; the order of the menu in the one on courses.
