Your Wedding Menu: Upping the Sophistication Factor
In the world of weddings, the vintage tides have turned & waves of chic and “Great Gatsby” elegance are washing ashore. As wedding themes become more and more sophisticated, so do their catering counterparts. Think elegant but approachable.
With that in mind, 2014 brides have moved beyond the standard wedding fare and have started expecting more of a restaurant quality meal. The individual items of this meal can vary; they can be presented in some different ways, but across the board, these are the catering elements that are adding a fresh, inventive feel to weddings everywhere.
Tipping a Hat to the Classics
It makes sense that couples would infuse classic menu items on their big day – after all, many are modeling their entire day on classic wedding themes. One way couples are paying homage to the traditional? They’re putting new spins on classic dishes with items like carving stations, gourmet mac ‘n cheese, and bacon-wrapped everything.
Photo by TodaysBride.com / taken at Landerhaven by Executive Caterers
Service Style
The favorite service style to capture this year’s approachable elegance? While the waiters might be wearing black dinner jackets and white gloves, they’re helping present the food family style. This method of serving encourages your guest to interact with each other.
Photo by Black Dog Photo Co.
Another way to get everyone to mix & mingle? Have your caterer set up some super trendy food stations. The options for these are virtually endless – with everything from a Stir Fry Station to a Baked Potato or S’mores bar.
Staying Local
Choosing local cuisine could mean any number of things – from asking your caterer to use meats & veggies from local sources; to serving beer & wine from local breweries and wineries; to incorporating local food favors for your guests. While staying local may not be a 2014 trend (it’s been popular for years now!), we do see it as a “trend” that’s gathering steam and becoming a staple for more and more celebrations.
Photo by Genevieve Nisly Photography
Going Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten-Free
In the past, vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free choices for a wedding might have meant a pile of pasta on a plate or a bowl of skimpy salad. These days, however, almost anything goes.
Whether you’re offering up Butternut Squash Ravioli or a hearty risotto, there are some ways you can cater to guests with dietary restrictions. Of course, it’s still important to keep all your guests in mind – and have meat choices in addition to your alternative dishes.
Also, don’t be shy about asking what’s in the cakes and dessert at the bakery when doing your tastings. Sometimes they offer vegan or gluten-free options – options that are so yummy your guests won’t even taste the difference!
Photo by TodaysBride.com / taken at Landerhaven by Executive Caterers
Drink Stations & Displays
Drink stations are a lovely way to get creative and interactive with your décor. An iced non-alcoholic beverage, set up in beverage dispensers, for example, is the perfect way to help guests cool off before and after the ceremony.
Photo by TodaysBride.com / taken at Landerhaven by Executive Caterers
Meanwhile, pre-dinner cocktails are still a popular choice but consider adding champagne in champagne sauces to up the sophistication factor.
Photo by Genevieve Nisly
Late Night Snacks
Late night treats are still a big hit for weddings. You might opt for sliders, hot pretzels or even tacos served from a food truck. Whatever you choose, just sure to be sure to clear it with your venue first – there may be restrictions on outside food or a hiccup in your timeline.
However, you might choose to incorporate food trends at your wedding, keep in mind that the menu is an important part of the day. In fact, most guests would name food & entertainment as the biggest elements that can make or break a wedding reception. We’re confident that these creative catering ideas will make your wedding stand out, while still adding that touch of class that every classic wedding needs.
