We're doing 2 as well. We're making a donation to St. Jude's hospital.
I'm Slovenian, so part of the tradition is that my side of the family prepares a lot of traditional sweets (exactly like a cookie table). However, with appetizers during cocktail hour, four courses, cake, and late night snacks, the food often goes uneaten.
So, we're using a box for a place setting.
In the box is a little note thanking the guests for coming and explaining the tradition. We're going to have the guests fill the box with whatever treats they like so they can enjoy them the next day, or later that night.