kgossman Planning a wedding is stressful enough, but add in food complications such as vegetarians or vegans, food allergies, or kids meals, and it can get very stressful! Here’s how to navigate the different food complications that may come up so you and your guests can enjoy a smooth event.
Get a Count
Try to get a head count early of how many “special” meals you will need for your event. Make sure you ask around to family and friends and tell your caterer if anyone has any food allergies. If you need several special meals (say 10 or more) you can add another option to your buffet for these guests that will also appeal to everyone. Make sure you order enough so there’s plenty for the other guests who require it and the others who may also get this for themselves. If you’re putting your special item on the buffet, make sure you label it so guests know which one is safe to eat.
If you just have a few special meals, coordinate these with your caterer and they can be made separately and boxed up or plated separately. You can tell your planner the names of these guests so the meals can be brought to them or tell your guests to ask their server for their meal when it’s time to eat.
For religious requirements, discuss these ahead of time with your catering staff and make sure that any items are eliminated from all meals so there is no risk of contamination. For instance, many religions don’t eat pork, so pork should be eliminated from all the food choices. If you’re choosing a dish that typically contains that item, make sure you let guests know that this one is safe for consumption.
Kids Meals
Kids meals can be tricky. Some catering companies and restaurants will offer kids meals for guests. These need to be planned ahead of time with your caterer and a head count given. Often these will be something more simple like chicken fingers and fries or a hamburger. These can be brought to each child at their seat or set up on a separate kids buffet table for them to grab themselves. If your caterer does not offer kids meals, many of my brides have had pizza delivered and served up for the kids on disposable plates. There is no right or wrong option here, as long as you offer something besides fish to the little ones.
You might also like Ways to Add Special Details to Your Event
Special Requests
If you or someone in your bridal party has a special food requirement, you should make sure you have an alternative option planned for them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner so that all meals when they are on site are covered. If one of your event guests has a special requirement, you should do your best to accommodate them. I know it can be stressful to add one more thing to your plate, but they are an invited guest of yours and should be treated as such. If an accommodation cannot be made, make sure you tell your guest ahead of time so they can bring their own items such as a dinner alternative, meal replacement shake, or protein bar.
Vary the Menu
It’s important to offer a wide variety of items so all of your guests have something to choose from. For instance, if you’re offering hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour, I would include 1 meat bite, 1 vegetarian bite, and maybe something novelty. For drinks, be sure to include water in addition to any sugary drinks such as lemonade or sweet tea. It’s important that everyone has an option or 2 to choose from no matter their health issues, food preferences, lifestyles, or religious restrictions. If you need help coming up with ideas, talk to your caterer to decide on a menu that everyone will love. They are the pros and will have plenty of options for everyone that taste delicious! Navigating food complications can be tricking, but working around them ahead of time and offering a solution or a varied menu will ensure your day runs smoothly!
You might also like What Dinner Style Should You Choose
