As a top wedding planner, I understand that every couple wants their wedding to be unforgettable, from the flowers to the food. And for foodies, that means creating a menu that is sure to impress their taste buds and dazzle wedding guests. For those looking to serve a meal that’s memorable, I’ve put together some ideas and tips on how to create a wedding menu for foodies that will leave guests in awe – full bellies and all.
Menu Items
When it comes to creating a wedding menu for foodies, the options are endless. However, it is important to keep in mind that the menu should be a reflection of the couple’s taste and style and not be so unique and different that guests don’t eat. Consider the things you love but also consider the audience.
Local and seasonal ingredients: Incorporating local and seasonal ingredients not only supports local farmers but also adds to the freshness and flavor of the menu. Bonus if this is a destination wedding where guests can experiment with new cuisine and you can show off why you love the region.
Interactive stations: Interactive food stations have become increasingly popular at weddings. Some examples include sushi bars and fresh pasta stations with cheese melting before your eyes. Guests can customize their meals and interact with the chefs, adding an element of fun (and sometimes education) to the wedding.
Upscale comfort food: Comfort food with a gourmet twist is sure to impress foodies and keep the masses happy. For example, mac and cheese with lobster or truffle oil, or sliders made with wagyu beef at your after party.
Presentation Ideas
The presentation of the food is almost as important as the taste. Your foodie friends will appreciate a visually stunning display and those less adventurous will be more likely to try.
Family-style service: Family-style service is a great way to create an intimate atmosphere and showcase the food. Large platters of food are placed on each table, and guests can serve themselves whatever they wish to try.
Miniature servings: Miniature servings of food are not only insta-worthy but also allow guests to try a variety of dishes without feeling too full. Miniature portions of soup, salad, and even entrees paired with tiny alcohol are sure great tray passed options.
Don’t forget about what the food is served on. Custom cocktail trays in your motif, beautiful fine china reflecting the style of the night, even colored glassware of specialty barware can elevate a menu.
Types of Service
The type of service you choose can also make a difference in the guest’s experience. Consider all the events in the weekend when designing how to serve your wedding meal.
Plated service: Plated service is the most traditional type of service. The food is plated in the kitchen and served to each guest at their table. This type of service is elegant and ensures that each guest receives their meal at the same time. A more expensive version of this is giving guests tableside options of what entree they feel like eating. A more cost-effective version would be asking this in advance with the RSVP. Or you can serve a duo and provide two options on every plate.
Buffet service: Buffet service allows guests to choose their own food at stations. It also allows for more variety in the menu.
Cocktail-style service: Cocktail-style service is a great option for a more casual wedding. Small bites are passed around, allowing guests to try a variety of dishes. This is typically reserved for the cocktail hour at a more formal wedding.
Plan Accordingly
The best thing you can do to host a foodie-favorite wedding is book a venue or catering company with a chef and team that truly gets your vision and will be a partner in your creativity. Allow them to guide you to avoid mistakes but challenge them to think outside the box and off the sample catering menus. Then collaborate on what you love to eat and what large groups of guests can count on enjoying and you’re off to a great start.
xoxo,
Mindy
