We’ve all heard our tummies grumble during the couple’s ceremony or wondered what would be served for dinner. Yes, we love looking at the flower decorations, listening to the music move throughout the reception venue, but one of the most important items to plan is food. For most couples, food can be one of the largest parts of their budgets. Food can be the heart of any good celebration. Creating a carefully crafted menu, that keeps your guests' bellies full and satisfied, is essential to your wedding day.
Choosing your ideal, but realistic, wedding menu is a task, because you not only have to think about the foods you like, but you must keep your guests in mind. And after the food has been selected, the process of how the food will be served and delivered is another layer. There are many options when it comes to wedding reception menus, especially in the modern world. So, let us do the research and let’s work on creating your wedding reception menu.
To Cocktail Hour- or Not?
Traditionally, cocktail or appetizer hour is a set amount of time prior to dinner. This allows time for the newlyweds to take a moment for themselves, family pictures to be taken, or gives the staff time to set up the reception area/flip the room. Food service during this time can take place, casually, or served by catering staff. Typically, it’s a few finger foods or appetizers that can keep hungry guests happy until the dinner portion of the menu is served. If you choose to have a cocktail hour, ensure that your menu is simple, and not too filling. You don’t want food to go to waste during the actual dinner meal. Additionally, keep food from being too messy and ensure you have the proper vessels to eat the appetizers.
Let’s Skip Dinner, Cocktails Only
This is another trendy and new idea. A lot of couples are choosing to swap the traditional sit-down dinner with a fun, interactive, “cocktail hour” dinner. Swap the large meal with interactive tables, such as a mac and cheese or nacho bar. Or, have a food truck (or maybe even a few) venture down to the reception and offer pre-selected options for your wedding guests. Guests will be able to mingle, sip on their cocktails, and enjoy small bites throughout the wedding reception. This is a great alternative for couples that want something interactive and a lighter feel. If you do choose to skip the traditional dinner hour, be sure to have ample seating for guests. Guests may still like to sit down at a table to enjoy their bites.
Dinner is Served
Now, if you’re more of a traditional couple and plan on having a dinner hour. Not only will you have to look at catering menus, but you’ll need to think about how your wedding meal will be served. Most caterers offer various serving styles, so let’s explore the three most common wedding service styles.
Plated Meal: The plated meal is a classic wedding tradition. This means that the meal is served to the guests by the catering staff. A plated meal can have more than one course, including a salad, main entree, and even a dessert. Typically the salad is placed on the table upon arrival of the guests and while guests are seated, dinner is served. The timeline in which the plated meals will be served is dependent on the amount of catering staff and amount of guests available. Talk about this detail with the caterer, because you do not want your guests watching others eat for long periods of time, while they wait for their food. If you do chose the plated meal, include the protein options on your wedding RSVP (ie. chicken, fish, vegetarian, beef etc.) It is best to include dietary options for your guests, especially if the meal has been selected and pre-plated for them.
Buffet: The buffet allows guests to serve themselves, but also select what item they chose to enjoy, and also how much they chose to eat. Set up your buffet walking distance from the reception area, create a flow for the buffet that is sensible for the amount of guests you have. The buffet can offer more variety and choices for all of your guests. Typically, a buffet may have more than one option for proteins, veggies, and sides. It allows guests to pick and choose what they like and also provides options for picky eaters or guests with specific dietary needs. Buffets can be glamorous, but be sure that guests aren’t waiting in long lines and your reception flow allows for a buffet.
Family Style: One of the newest serving forms is family style. Family style is similar to a buffet, in which guests can choose their selections and serve themselves. But a family style meal is served to the table in dishes. It allows your guests to remain seated and is a relaxed method of serving. Your guests will come together and share a meal with one another. It’s much like a classic Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house. But, family style can create a little bit of trouble, when it comes to portioning. Some guests may eat more than others, or others may be anxious to serve themselves in front of the other guests.
Bottom line, when it comes to creating or selecting your wedding reception menu, be sure to think about your non-negotiables and keep your guests in mind. Not only is this a magical experience for you, you want your guests to walk away with enjoyment. As you hire your caterer and choose your menu, think about what kind of experience you and your guests want to have. And as always, at the end of the day, keep your vision within your budget. Your food costs will most likely be one of the biggest budget items for your wedding. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, shop around, and ask about any additional costs. Choose a wedding menu and style that reflects you and you know your guests will enjoy.
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 17 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.