Wedding Traditions: The Cookie Table

I’m not sure if this is a traditional item at all receptions or if it’s a local thing (with the exception of one in North Carolina, I’ve only been to weddings in West Virginia and Pennsylvania), but one of the reception traditions I’m most looking forward to is the cookie table. If you don’t know what a cookie table is, well, it’s pretty self-explanatory. It’s a table with dozens and dozens of cookies on it. All kinds of cookies, as far as the eye can see. Or, well, as far as the table is long, anyway.

Why you need all of this cookie goodness in addition to the wedding cake, I have no idea, but I think it’s awesome, and I can’t wait. According to an article in the Post-Gazette, the tradition originated in Youngstown, Ohio, though most of the people I’ve talked to about it refer to it as a Pittsburgh tradition. As in, “You’ve got to have the cookie table. It’s a Pittsburgh tradition.”

These photos are from my friend Melanie’s wedding.

Wherever it originated, it’s spectacular. I’ve already started asking friends to make cookies for the reception, and they’ve happily agreed. So many people have said, “Anything you need, let me know.” And I’ve certainly taken them up on that offer, especially the ones who like to bake. At our Labor Day housewarming party, after sampling some of the cookies people brought, I immediately asked them if they’d be willing to contribute some to our reception. One friend is so excited, she’s offered to make multiple kinds.

There are a lot of different traditions we’ve decided to kick to the curb, but this is one I’m very happy to be traditional on. What about you — are you having (or did you have) a cookie table at your wedding?