When it comes to selecting your wedding menu there are so many things that you need to start considering. From your venue to massive dietary requirements, our tips can help you avoid some of the common mistakes.
More and more couples are becoming self-proclaimed food lovers. We know, we have a number here at the Yorkshire Catering Company. Therefore the whole wedding menu has become the ultimate in raising the steaks on the big day. From pairing wines to a plethora of global cuisines, the wedding day has turned into a mini-world fair of food and drink, but with choice comes challenge. You could have everything you want but how do you choose what makes it to your plate?
What kind of food do you like?
If, ordering food at a restaurant is tricky then we hate to be the bearer of bad news, your wedding day is harder. Ultimately, you need to break things down into what you want, is it something light? Something a little more indulgent or, a complete and utter blow out? Do you want to stay traditional or push the boat out for things like roast pork and meze in your wedding menu repertoire?
The starting point should be what you and your partner both enjoy as a couple. If one of you doesn’t like, lamb, for example, then there is no point having it as your only wedding menu item plus, it can be rather tricky to change on the wedding day itself! You need to enjoy your first meal as a married couple so choose wisely.
There is then the other menu choice which is, have different selections. You will have seen the invite cards, the ones which ask you for an option and this is a good idea, especially if you have a group of friends and family that are say, a little more, picky.
Understand your guests
It’s going to be hard to cater for everyone, we all have that fried that decides that they are going to try veganism just before a wedding day… Yes, catering for large groups which include family and friends can be really heavy on the pocket and cause a few arguments along the way.
That’s why we say that things such as wedding buffets and a bit of a more diverse wedding menu can compensate for those very things from the get go. Be sure however to do one thing, ask if anyone has any allergies. This makes planning so much easier for your caterer as well, and can avoid anyone becoming ill on your special day!
Opt for a wedding breakfast
Gone are the traditional days of just one large, long, sit down meal. Those who abandon the traditional menus are looking for something different, and the venues can usually give a big indicator into the menu selection itself. Outdoor weddings point to picnics and barbecue, relaxed menus are more across the wedding buffet and meze styles. Those who want something a little sweeter may prefer an afternoon tea instead; yes, lots of little finger foods to keep the hunger at bay!
However, have you considered a global feast? Don’t limit yourselves to a set three courses, have multiple food stations! From hot dogs to sushi, pizza to ribs, these stations can really be the ones that cater for a great crowd and keep you and your guests happy.
Don’t forget the drinks as well. We will cover this more in detail in the next week, but great weddings involve great drinks. Champagne or Prosecco are high on the list, as are apperitifs and don’t forget, craft beer is a must for those wanting a bit more of a hip wedding vibe!
Final Thoughts
As with most things wedding, it is easy to forget the important things about the wedding day which is, you are getting married! You should be enjoying it and your menu should reflect that but it shouldn’t be the biggest focus or stress point on your special day.
Speak with your caterer, understand what it is you want and let them know. Good caterers can work around all types of services and also give you great insights for the wedding day.