Catering to Dietary Restrictions for Wedding Guests

There is a wide range of dietary restrictions to consider these days. From guests with gluten sensitivities or nut allergies, to vegans and Paleo eaters. There are a lot of dietary restrictions to cater to these days. When planning your wedding menu, it’s not only thoughtful, but practical to plan for a wide range of special needs. Anything that ranged from preferential to essential.

How Do We Know About Dietary Restrictions?

Ask on the invitation. It’s long been the common practice to let guests select chicken, meat, fish, or a vegetarian option. They can simply check a box on their reply card. But what about gluten free, vegan, or nut-free options? Consider adding an additional line on your RSVP cards. You can ask guests to list any food allergies. If you really want to go the extra mile, you can also ask about dietary restriction. This way you and your catering team will know what to plan for.

Talk to your caterers.

If you already know you have a number of guests with allergies, bring this to your caterer’s attention early on. If you are also aware of dietary restrictions this is something to mention to them as well. Most caterers will have experience tailoring their menus to specific needs. They will likely be able to make helpful suggestions to keep your guests happy, healthy, and well-fed.

Label the buffet.

If you’re providing guests with a buffet make sure to clearly label the options. Knowledgeable servers behind the buffet are an added bonus. This way, guests don’t need to ask a million questions about what they can or can’t consume. This also eliminates them running the risk of eating something that may be harmful. Another, slightly costlier option to keeping everyone safe and healthy? Offer a plated dinner where guests are served their specific meal.

Keep foods separate.

Whether it’s in the kitchen with the caterers or out on the buffet. Make sure that any food that may trigger an allergy attack is kept far away from any food made with that ingredient. For example, keep nut-free options at the other end of the buffet from the macadamia encrusted trout.

Prepare for the cost.

While some dietary needs can be easy to accommodate. Things like avoiding nuts, dairy or shellfish. Some specialized menus come with an additional cost. When you offer gluten-free options, for example. Speak with your caterer about the most efficient way to keep costs down. If cost is truly a cause of concern. Cater to those guests who have allergies or religious restrictions. Avoid offering meals to those who have dietary preferences. This will keep the alternate menu options to a minimum.

Don’t take offense.

You may find that one or more of your guests have such severe allergies that they just aren’t comfortable eating what is provided. If those guests choose not to eat the food provided, don’t be offended. See if there’s anything you can do to help keep them comfortable. You’ll feel better knowing they’re taken care of and able to enjoy the day.