By Tammy Pitts
You’ve said “yes” to the proposal and “yes” to the dress. The date is circled on your calendars. Your next big hurdle is deciding what to serve on your big day. Choosing a wedding menu can be a difficult task. Here are a few popular options to consider.
Plated Entrée Options
Offer a selection of two or three main dishes for guests to choose from. For instance, a steak or chicken option is always popular. During Arizona’s summer, a light option such as steak with scallops or shrimp could be ideal, avoiding heavy side dishes that will leave your guests feeling sleepy.
Here are some popular options to consider on your invitations:
● Fried Chicken: Fried chicken is always a hit and is sure to please your guests, kids included.
● Seafood Selections: Shrimp is a versatile choice that pairs well with various sides like grits or pasta. Salmon, a wedding staple, can be grilled or enhanced with seasonal glazes for a unique flavor.
● Lamb: For something different, opt for lamb. Often served with vegetables or shrimp, it makes for an impressive entrée.
● Brisket: This protein is perfect for budget-conscious weddings. Brisket, along with grilled chicken wings and thighs, can suit any setting, from backyard to ballroom.
Interactive Food Stations
An idea that is gaining traction and becoming popular is interactive food stations. These range from popcorn bars to fondue stations or elegant charcuterie boards loaded with fine meats, cheeses, fruit, and chocolates. A wedding tip from the pros: test out some of your wedding day appetizers at your bridal shower or bachelorette party.
Here are some ideas for your interactive food station:
● Brunch Bar: Ideal for early events, choose a breakfast-for-dinner theme, offering items like biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and a variety of meats, fruits, and sweet options.
● Ice Cream Bar: From treats tables to donut walls, after an evening of dancing, name a better way to treat your guests than with an ice cream station. Include fun toppings like hot fudge, fresh strawberries, sprinkles, or candy. If ice cream isn’t your jam, consider a donut wall. They’re popular on Instagram these days and are the perfect sweet treat.
● Treats Table: If you would rather have a treats table, opt for an array of chocolate-covered fruits or cupcakes. You could also incorporate small boxes of wedding cake or chocolate that your guests can take home or enjoy at the reception.
● Pizza Bar: A universal favorite, pizzas cater to all tastes and are particularly enjoyable after hours of dancing.
● Taco Bar: Create a memorable taco buffet and serve a mix of classic and unique fillings.
Finger foods
Essential for cocktail hours and dance floor breaks, here are some crowd-pleasing small bites:
● Bruschetta: These versatile, bite-sized appetizers are perfect for cocktail hour.
● Sliders: Mini burgers and sandwiches in various meat and vegetarian options add diversity to your menu.
● Meatballs: An affordable choice with various meat or vegetarian options, serve them with several delicious sauce options.
● French Fries: A popular snack and portable favorite, serve them in cones with unique dips.
● Flatbread: Offer a range of toppings to ensure there’s something for everyone. Flatbreads are a substantial and classy option.
When choosing the menu for your bid day, the key is to incorporate variety. Offer your guests an array of choices and accommodate dietary needs, offering vegan and gluten-free options at a minimum. The food is part of your wedding day experience, so aim to please your guests. They should leave your event raving about the exceptional meal and drinks they enjoyed. So, relax and enjoy the process. Embrace your creativity while designing a menu that will be the talk of the town!
And if you need tips on how to plan an unforgettable wedding, please reach out. We would love to help!
Tammy has an extensive background in journalism, media relations, social media strategy, marketing, and brand management. She resides in Michigan with her family which includes her two sons and their Goldendoodle, Max. In her free time, she loves to read and travel.