. Keep reading to learn how to plan a wedding menu that will satisfy everyone.
Coordinating a wedding requires vendors, planning, and logistical considerations. Of the many things you need to do to plan your special day, deciding on a wedding menu may be one of the most important.
We want to help you plan a wedding menu that will wow your guests and reflect your unique personality and preferences as a couple. We’ll go over how to plan your menu, the food presentation styles, whether you need to hire a caterer, and more. Keep reading to learn how to plan a wedding reception menu that will satisfy everyone.
Consider Your Wedding Style
Most couples determine the style for their wedding early in the planning process, from glam to boho, romantic, rustic, classic, or contemporary. For many, that wedding style sets the tone and helps make overall decisions for your celebration—from the wedding venue, the flowers, invitations, jewelry, and more.
One area that brings a strong thematic element to the table is the food. When choosing your venue or caterer, it’s essential to ask about the types of food they serve and what options you have, especially if you have a special request.
Think about the atmosphere you want to create and aim to match menu selections. For example, you wouldn’t serve barbecue at a formal event, but you may want to encourage casual chatting and tasting with a strolling dinner. Another way to highlight your style is to work with your vendor to create a signature cocktail!
Plan the Courses
During tastings, inquire about incorporating your preferred dishes into the menu. For instance, if you’re having a beach wedding and would love lobster on the menu, discuss different options for serving lobster.
Make final decisions about the wedding menu, including the appetizers, main courses, and side dishes. Communicate any special options, such as signature drinks, family dishes, or late-night snacks. Choose your final caterer only after sampling the food, discussing menu options, and checking their pricing total against your budget.
Communicate preferences for locally sourced, organic, sustainable, or ethically produced ingredients. Remember that these may affect final prices, so speak about this before you finalize the caterer. At this point, you should also consider dietary restrictions among your guests and discuss these with the caterer.
The Guest List
The number of people you choose to include on your guest list greatly impacts your menu. If your wedding is family-friendly, there will be kids and possibly picky eaters to feed. Consider adding a kid’s entree to the menu. Check with your caterer to find out if they offer any kid-approved meals.
As you choose menu items, it is courteous to keep your guests in mind, so consider offering at least one well-loved favorite everyone can enjoy. Popular foods are a great way to make your wedding enjoyable for everyone and even more memorable.
HISTORIC OAKLAND MANOR: THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
Nestled in a peaceful wooded area in the heart of downtown Columbia, Historic Oakland Manor stands proudly in natural splendor. Elegant Oakland is the perfect setting for ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, holiday parties, family celebrations, business meetings, or retreats. Schedule a tour today with our expert venue coordinators! Please call (410-730-4801), email (Info@Historic-Oakland.com), or visit our chat on our homepage to book a tour appointment.
