Showers, Luncheons and Teas

Elegant finger foods for any function.

To create an appealing, colorful display, offer mini portions of several different sweets on your buffet table. Use tiered cake stands for an impressive presentation. The small portions make it easy for guests to sample one of each! 

Garnish cocktails with edible flowers and fresh fruit.

If you're serving punch, make a floating centerpiece ahead of time: freeze layers of punch and fruit in a tube pan or ring mold. Choose fruits that complement the drink to be served and flowers that match the décor and occasion. Arrange berries, citrus slices, mint leaves and rose petals or other edible flowers in the bottom of the mold. Add just enough liquid (juice, tea, water or punch) to cover the bottom of the mold--you don't want the fruit to float away. Freeze. Repeat with more layers of liquid and berries, as desired. Just before serving, dip the mold in hot water, invert and float the centerpiece in the punch bowl.

Or, for an equally pretty but less time-consuming display, purchase unscented flower-shaped floating candles from a housewares or wedding supply store. These also make lovely party favors for guests.