Top Catering Ideas for Small Parties and Weddings

“When the guest list is small, the food better be unforgettable.”

There’s something special about hosting a small event. Whether it’s a backyard wedding, a family birthday, or a close-knit celebration, it’s less about the size, and more about the moments. And food? Food is what brings those moments to life.

At smaller gatherings, there’s no hiding behind a massive buffet or over-the-top menu. Every dish counts. Every bite matters.

Let’s talk about some real, down-to-earth catering ideas for small parties and weddings that will actually impress your guests, without going overboard.

Stick With What You Love

If you’ve got 30 or 50 people coming, you can skip the cookie-cutter menu. This is your chance to serve the foods you and your people actually like.

• Fried chicken instead of dry roast? Do it.
• Mini jambalaya bowls? Absolutely.

You’re not feeding strangers, you’re feeding folks you know and care about. That gives you more freedom to keep things simple and make it personal.

Make It Easy to Mingle

Small parties feel best when people aren’t stuck in their seats. Think finger foods and grazing tables.

• Charcuterie boards with local meats and cheeses.
• Fried shrimp skewers.
• Petite crab cakes.
• Small bites that travel well and taste even better.

It’s not just practical, it’s inviting. People will talk, laugh, and snack all at once.

Comfort Food, But Make It Pretty

You know the type, mac and cheese that’s creamy and baked just right.
Mini po’boys.

• Cornbread muffins with honey butter.
• These are the kinds of dishes people remember.

Dress them up a little. Serve them in ramekins, wooden boats, or cute mini plates. Same comfort. Just a bit more polished.

Interactive Stations? Yes, Please

One of the best things about smaller events? You can get creative without it turning into chaos.

• A taco bar where guests build their own? Crowd favorite.
• A biscuit station with fried chicken, pickles, and sauces? Game changer.

Pasta stations. Oyster bars. Even a late-night snack station with sliders or mini beignets.
It’s food and fun, rolled into one.

Go Small on Dessert, But Go Big on Flavor

 Instead of a massive wedding cake or big dessert trays, try a variety of mini sweets.

• Bread pudding shooters.
• Chocolate mousse cups.
• Mini cheesecakes.
• Hand pies.

When guests can try two or three different desserts, everyone leaves happy. (And full.)

Make It Yours, Make It Local

That’s what we believe in at The Four Columns. For over 30 years, we’ve catered events where food means something. We know how to bring flavor, warmth, and real New Orleans charm to a celebration, no matter how big or small.

From seafood boils and jambalaya to elegant hors d’oeuvres and homemade desserts, our kitchen knows how to deliver on taste without the fuss.

So if you’re planning something small but meaningful, we’re here to help make it delicious.

Contact for more details.