Food is an important aspect of your wedding day. Below are just some of the key things to consider when it comes to organising food and keeping your guests fed.
Does the venue provide catering?
When choosing a venue, one of the most important things to look into is if they provide catering. If so, is it the type of catering that you want? The best wedding venues will be able to offer multiple food packages. These are typically included within the price of the venue.
Can I hire my own catering?
If a venue does not provide catering or does not provide the type of food you’d like at your venue, you should consider whether the venue allows you to hire outside caterers. Some venues that provide their own catering do not allow you to outsource other caterers. All in all, it’s important that you are able to choose the right catering company to suit your preferences.
Sit down meal or buffet?
During a ‘sit down’ meal, food is served to the guests at their tables. A buffet meal meanwhile requires guests to get up and plate their own food. Buffet meals are less formal and generally cheaper because you do not have to pay for waiting staff.
How many guests will be eating?
It’s important to work out exactly how many people will be eating at your wedding so that you can provide the right amount of food. This is particularly important when choosing a sit down meal, however it also matters when choosing a buffet meal - provide too low an estimate and there may be not enough food to go around, while too high an estimate could result in a lot of wasted food.
Will your vendors get food?
It is courteous to provide vendors like photographers, wedding planners and waiting staff with food. Don’t let your vendors go hungry!
Any special dietary requirements?
A good catering team will be able to accommodate any special dietary requirements, however they will often need to be warned in advance. Consider whether any of your guests have food allergies/intolerances, if they have religious dietary requirements or if they are vegan.
Will there be kids coming?
If there are young kids coming, you may want to arrange separate food for them. On top of kids meals, you may want to consider some snacks to enjoy throughout the day. This could include sweet cones, a chocolate fountain or even an ice cream van.
Will you be eating outside?
Outdoor weddings are becoming increasingly more popular. However, you may want to be wary of serving food outdoors. Food can easily attract flies or go off if left in the sun, and can be equally spoiled by rain or wind. Allowing guests to eat under a marquee could be a solution to this.
What type of cake will you order?
Of course, you can’t forget the cake! While some cakes are purely ceremonial, most couples prefer to choose cakes that guests can actually eat. On top of choosing the right cake design, you should consider the cake ingredients. A lot of people do not like the traditional fruit cake filling, and this has led more couples to choose victoria sponge fillings or chocolate cakes.
Don’t forget to book a Food Tasting
Before finalising your menu, it's essential to schedule a food tasting with your chosen caterer. This allows you to sample the dishes and ensure they meet your expectations in terms of taste and presentation.
Will you need Late-Night Snacks?
If your wedding celebration will continue late into the night, offering late-night snacks can be a thoughtful gesture. This could include a mini-burger station, a nacho bar, or even a popcorn cart to keep guests fueled and satisfied.
Decorative Food Displays, how can you incorporate visually appealing food displays?
Consider incorporating visually appealing food displays as part of your wedding decor. This could involve a beautifully arranged cheese and charcuterie board, a colorful fruit display, or an extravagant dessert table that doubles as a centerpiece.
Cultural and Regional Cuisine, will you include traditional dishes or flavors?
If you have a specific cultural background or want to pay homage to a certain region, consider incorporating traditional dishes or flavors into your menu. This adds a personal touch and can be a great way to celebrate your heritage.
Go Sustainable and Local Sourcing were possible!
If sustainability is important to you, inquire about the catering company's approach to sourcing ingredients. Opting for locally sourced, organic, or seasonal produce can reduce the carbon footprint of your wedding and support local businesses.
Wow Your Guests with Food Presentation
Don't underestimate the power of presentation. Work with your caterer to create visually stunning dishes that are not only delicious but also look appealing on the plate. Artful presentation can enhance the overall dining experience for your guests.
Have you thought about Foody Favors?
Consider providing edible wedding favors that guests can take home. This could be small jars of homemade jam, personalized cookies, or mini bottles of locally produced olive oil. Edible favors are not only appreciated but also double as a meaningful souvenir.
Remember, every wedding is unique, and the food choices should reflect your personal preferences and style. By considering these additional points, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable dining experience for you and your guests on your special day.
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