How to Create a Wedding Menu Everyone Will Love

Buffet-style or sit-down dinner? Appetizers or no? How many entree options will you serve? There’s so much you have to consider when designing your wedding menu. You want to please everyone, from adventurous eaters to picky palates.

But fear not, lovebirds! Here are 5 tips to craft a meal that hits the sweet spot:

1. Know who you’re serving.

Consider age range and cultural eating preferences. Perhaps you and your spouse-to-be enjoy food with a kick, but odds are there are a few kids, elderly, or otherwise tender-tongued guests on your list who wouldn’t be so fond of the spice. Compromise and offer spicy AND mild options. 

And you can't forget your vegan cousin or gluten-free aunt! Include dishes that cater to dietary needs (and win major brownie points).

2. Sync up your menu to the mood.

First things first, if you want a black tie reception but also want to serve wings…go for it! You do you! But, if your goal is to provide a dinner that lives up to typical expectations, you’ll want to pick a dining style that matches the overall vibe of your celebration. 

Thinking casual? Go for a buffet, food stations, or a food truck. Prefer something a little more formal? Plated dinners, hors d’oeuvres, and signature cocktails fit the bill.

3. Balance personality with simplicity.

Your wedding reception is a chance for you and your partner to show off your culinary love story, but it’s also – in a way – how you thank your guests for coming out to celebrate with you. Balance your gourmet indulgences with crowd-pleasing classics. Odds are, they'll appreciate the variety.

4. Consider seasonality.

Many caterers source ingredients from local suppliers. For the freshest, most appetizing plates, you’re going to want to think about what fruits and vegetables will be in season. Plus, depending on the time of year, a certain type of food may just make more sense. Although a warm butternut squash soup is pure autumn magic, it would feel off in July.

5. Think about timing.

Having an early afternoon ceremony? Don't starve your guests! Add a light snack or consider an earlier dinner. Planning a marathon feast? Schedule wisely so you're not cutting cake under the stars.

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