A Stress Free Guide to Choosing Your Wedding Menu

Let’s talk about one of my favorite things. FOOD. When it comes to wedding planning, one of the biggest components of your budget, aside from the venue, is the food and beverage. Your wedding menu is not just a meal—it’s an experience. A key part of your celebration. Something your guests will definitely remember (or talk about!).

Survey the Scene

When you start choosing your wedding menu, you’ll usually receive a three or four-page document from the catering company. This document is packed with options. Everything they can create for your special day. From hors d’oeuvres to side dishes, main courses to late-night snacks, you’ll find it all listed there. And if the catering company is good, they’ll make sure to clearly label which items are vegetarian, vegan, nut-free, gluten-free, or free of other common allergens. It’s a lot to take in, but don’t let it overwhelm you.

Go Course by Course

The best way to tackle your wedding menu is to break it down step by step, course by course. Start by crossing off the items you know you’re not interested in or things that don’t suit the vibe of your wedding. Narrow it down to options that catch your eye or fit the preferences of you and your guests. And if the catering company offers a tasting—whether it’s included in your food and beverage package or available as an extra add-on—absolutely go for it. Attend the tasting, try as many dishes as you can, and take notes. This is your chance to sample their offerings and figure out what you like, what you don’t like, and what will wow your guests. Plus, who doesn’t love a food-tasting session?

Limit Your Substitutions

Now, here’s a tip to keep things running smoothly. Chefs generally aren’t fans of significant menu substitutions. While small swaps here and there can be manageable, trying to overhaul their menu or customize every dish is a quick way to frustrate the team. Remember, they’ve carefully crafted their menu based on their expertise and experience. Instead, focus on creating a balanced selection. Incorporate a little bit of everything—vegetables, proteins, starches—so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Late Night Noms!

And don’t forget the late-night snacks! Trust me, late-night french fries or sliders will be a hit with your guests after hours of dancing and celebrating. Those little touches can make all the difference and will leave a lasting impression.

At the end of the day, your wedding menu is all about creating a delicious and memorable experience for you and your guests. With some thoughtful planning and a willingness to trust your caterer’s expertise, you’ll have a spread that everyone will rave about. So relax, enjoy the process, and most importantly, eat ALL the things!