About Wedding Dinners
The reception meal is a big part of the wedding planning process. There are so many options to consider in order to satisfy your own wishes while pleasing your guests at the same time. Factors such as number of guests, time of day and food preferences all play a role in deciding on the perfect dinner for your wedding reception.
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Types
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There are three main types of wedding dinners. The appetizer option is similar to a cocktail party. Guests can feast on a variety of hors d'oeuvres which often end up being as filling as a meal. For a sit-down dinner you can choose a buffet-style meal where guests serve themselves or a plated meal where the guests are served by staff from the location of the event or the catering company.
Time Frame
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Wedding dinners are ideal for receptions that occur in the late afternoon or evening. Dinner is served after the bride and groom arrive at the reception. Many couples offer their guests a cocktail hour prior to the meal where snacks are served to curb hunger. Most meals will take about one hour to complete. However, if you have a large number of guests or choose a buffet option, it may take longer for your guests to get and finish their meals.
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Size
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The number of guests at your reception plays a role in choosing the best dinner option. A buffet line may not be ideal for very large weddings because it can take a long time for each guest to make it through the line. If you have a very small wedding, an intimate cocktail party with plenty of appetizers might be the best choice. Regarding the amount of food you need, most caterers will automatically add 10% more meals than required by the RSVP number to account for any surprise guests.
Features
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A wedding dinner typically has three to four courses. The salad and bread are served first and even if you choose a buffet-style meal it is likely that the salad course will be served. Some couples also choose a soup course before or after the salad. If the main course is a plated meal it will include one to two protein sources, a starch such as potatoes, and a vegetable. Buffets can offer a wide variety of options, allowing guests to choose what they want. Meats, vegetables and starches are all included. The final course is the wedding cake.
Considerations
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When planning a meal for a large group, there are preferences and dietary issues to consider. It is a good idea to offer both a meat and a fish for those who may not enjoy one or the other. You can allow your guests to choose their meal on the RSVP card, but those don't always get returned so be prepared with a few vegetarian meals. Also, consider selecting a separate meal for any children who will be attending.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Dani Simmonds, www.morguefile.com
