The Pie Debate

I have had this crazy idea in my head since Kevin and I got engaged and started planning our wedding that I wanted to have pies for dessert instead of traditional wedding cake. I mean our wedding is outdoors at a camp with the reception at a ball field complete with BBQ like food and corn hole - its kind of perfect. I've heard all sorts of responses when I tell people about the pies - some surprise, some slight disapproval, and some utter excitement. As a whole, most people seem to go along with our idea. 

Except for the second part to my idea, I want to bake the pies ourselves. This is where 'The Pie Debate' lives and has been plaguing us for quite some time. I absolutely love the idea of making our own pies with friends and family up at the Camp Shawnee kitchen where I already have made so many amazing memories. I love baking and cooking in general and think it would not only be a money saver, but also extremely fun. However, a lot of people are a tad more practical and don't fully support my craziness. Let's be honest, most brides probably do not want the added stress of upwards of twelve fruit pies hanging over their head the night before they're about to be married. I mean, a lot could go wrong and if the pies don't come out right than you're really in a pinch as far as dessert goes the next day. 

Despite every one's warning and pleadings, I am still one hundred percent sure that I want to bake a dozen or so pies the night before I get married surrounded by friends and family. I am doing my homework though; in that, I am going to have trial runs of the pies to be made on Friday night here first to ensure quality. Today, I tried out my first wedding pie recipe - an Apple Berry Pie with Crumb Topping. I didn't really follow one recipe, I pulled from a few different recipes and ended up with a Braebun apple, blackberry, strawberry, and raspberry filling with cardamom seasoning covered with a traditional crumb topping. It is cooling on my counter top as we speak and filling my apartment with the most heavenly smell you can imagine. I'm going to let it cool for a bit longer and then take it to my official taste tester - Kevin - to see if it passes the rigorous testing process for wedding excellence.

Wedding Pie Contestant #1

I think I'm going to try and have four or so different types of pie, so any suggestions for delicious, uncomplicated pies are welcomed and appreciated. Also, if anyone who is coming to our wedding would like to be involved in the pie making marathon please let me know and I will gladly add you to the roster!