Weddings are more intimate

Trends: "Weddings are now smaller, more intimate affairs," says Bouvier. "Brides are more value conscious. Weddings that feature food stations rather than plated service, "are becoming more popular.

"Due to our location and the availability of fresh seafood, we typically feature large shellfish displays. These may include poached chilled lobster, champagne-marinated mussels, Chatham clams on the half shell, native oysters on the half shell, and lobster salad," says Bouvier.

"Asian stations are particularly popular-e.g., sushi and nigiri beautifully displayed on rectangular platters. We also serve pot stickers in bamboo steamers with a bath of lemongrass and star anise to add aroma to the room.

"Pasta and salad tossing stations are also very popular," she continues. "We have done weddings that actually are more like large, elaborate receptions, or parties, without a specific dinner served. On the other hand, some brides are skipping hors d'oeuvres and seafood displays and going straight to dinner.

"The biggest trend we're seeing is people inviting only their closest family and friends. Weddings are warmer. There's less glitz and glam."

For entertainment? "A DJ or perhaps a jazz trio is perfect," says Bouvier. "These smaller events come off as sort of hip and carefree. They're less formal, yet elegant and intimate at the same time."