18 Grazing Table Ideas for a Gorgeous Spread

Published on 10/19/20

Charcuterie board grazing table — The Poor Girls Pantry

Grazing tables are elevating wedding receptions everywhere by providing a colorful spread to feast on and mingle over. This family-style display beats canapés any day—there's no need for a ton of catering staff and guests can dive right into a grazing table whenever they please. They're the perfect way to bring guests together between the wedding and reception, or even serve as the first course for dinner.

Grazing tables often take shape as a massive charcuterie board or spread of antipasti laden with meats, cheeses, olives, and a selection of breads. Fresh fruits, dips, nuts, and crackers are also traditionally incorporated. But truly, a grazing table can be any type of spread you choose, whether you're hoping to include more salads or vegetables, or even a few sweets. As long as it’s filled with assorted flavors and textures, you can’t go wrong.

Read on for 18 gorgeous ideas to set up and elevate your grazing table.

01 of 18

Add Contrasting Height

Grazing table with shelves — Tanya Voltchanskaya

Tiers of bread, cheeses, and fruits elevate this grazing table cast in an illuminating glow. We love the idea of utilizing multiple plates, bowls, and shelves to add interest to a display.

02 of 18

Cater to a Theme

Grazing table set up on a wine barrel — Kelsie Low Photography

Who needs a table when you have an old wine barrel to offer up some rustic charm? We love this concept for a vineyard wedding, bringing in elements of the winemaking process. Eucalyptus and dried grass accents finish off this clever aesthetic to make a beautiful statement.

03 of 18

Decorate With Candles

Grazing table with candles — CJ Williams Photography

Why not mix in some décor with your display? Add height and contrast with various platters and shelving, and deck it out with candlelight.

04 of 18

Add a Bed of Greenery

Grazing table with florals and greenery — The Poor Girls Pantry

Planning a grazing table for a winter wedding? A bed of evergreens on a bare wooden table creates that perfect forest feel. We love how this setting threw in king protea for an unexpected touch.

05 of 18

Utilize Signage

Grazing table with mini chalkboard sign — Lauren Campbell

Especially if you're including a variety of specialty meats and cheeses, you'll want your guests to know what they're getting. Miniature chalkboard signs are a cute way to ensure guests aren't left guessing what they’re eating.

06 of 18

More Than Meats and Cheeses

Grazing table with fresh wraps — Milina Opsenica Photography

Who says the whole table has to be meats and cheeses for charcuterie? Why not incorporate other options too? Fresh wraps, rolls, and decadent fruits and vegetables have an inviting farm-to-table flair.

07 of 18

Frame a Gorgeous View

Grazing table set up with background view — Ashleigh Haase Photography

Plan your grazing table with a gorgeous view in mind. We love the idea of setting up a stunning display overlooking a beautiful backdrop.

08 of 18

Go for Mini

Mini charcuterie plate — Amanda Afton Photography

While it's traditional to set up one big grazing table, why not turn the concept on its head? We love the idea of putting together mini grazing platters to set on individual reception tables for sharing. Or, you could even deck out a plate for each guest's place setting.

09 of 18

Choose an Unexpected Setting

Small grazing table set up in an archway — Cecelina Photography

A grazing table doesn’t actually require a table. Get creative with your spaces—this château ledge has a rustic Italian charm that complements a spread of bread, cheese, and grapes.

10 of 18

Feature Foods Separately

Platter of salami and prosciutto — Gina & Ryan Photography

Instead of mixing up antipasti, arrange meats, cheeses, and fruits on their own pedestals for a clean aesthetic. A centerpiece of prosciutto framed by salami is plated perfection.

11 of 18

Frame With Foliage

Grazing table with eucalyptus — Savour & Graze

This masterpiece of a grazing table looks too good to eat. Frame a table with eucalyptus and other foliage to enhance your table's lush effect.

12 of 18

Add Plenty of Fruit

Grazing table with bright fruits — PHOTO BY KINDRED WEDDING STORYTELLERS; Catering by La Crème

Plenty of specialty meats and cheeses pair perfectly with fresh fruits. Add in cut strawberries, oranges, grapes, and figs to not only bring out beautiful flavors but to add a stunning splash of color.

13 of 18

Serve Something Sweet

Grazing table with donuts and candy — The Everlasting Photo

Who says a grazing table needs to be all savory? If you're setting up multiple tables throughout your reception, why not go all-out with a dessert or candy bar as well? Set up a display with your favorites such as donuts, cupcakes, sour ropes, and gummy bears and set out little bags or boxes for guests to make up a sweet goodie bag to take home.

14 of 18

Pack in Fruits and Veggies

Grazing table with vegetables and nuts — Mullers Photo

We love the look of this bountiful display. A plethora of veggies, from broccoli and carrots to radishes and cauliflower, are put on display in beautiful baskets. And the addition of kale, parsley, and artichokes provide such a fun decoration for this green-themed grazing table.

15 of 18

Celebrate With Cheese

Cheese and cider grazing table — Apryl Ann

If you're a die-hard cheese lover, why not choose to go all out? Put together a display of all of your favorite cheeses, from cheddar to smoked gouda. Don't forget to provide a few crackers as the perfect pairing.

16 of 18

Keep it Simple

A grazing table certainly doesn't have to be elaborate. In fact, it can be as simple as just setting up a great option for guests to have a snack. We love the idea of setting up a grazing cart with fresh olives to munch on for an Italian-inspired reception.

17 of 18

Embrace Décor

Grazing table with hanging greenery — Todd Hunter McGaw Photographers

Don't be afraid to go bold with your table. Adding in elements of décor, such as hanging greenery, is a great way to draw attention to your display. Theme the rest of the table with matching vases full of foliage.

18 of 18

Elevate a Salad Bar

Reception grazing table with salads — Georgia Verrells Photography

Offering your first course as a grazing table is such a fun choice, and salads are the perfect menu option. Incorporate multiple types of salads, with a bit of charcuterie and bread as well, for a beautiful, delicious display.