How to Pick a Rehearsal Dinner Menu

The last item a bride and groom want to worry about the night before their wedding is the rehearsal dinner. From family feuds to plane delays to bridesmaid meltdowns, a number of problems can arise. Make sure food isn’t one of them by pre-planning the menu with your specific guests in mind.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Start by deciding what genre of food you and your fiancé prefer. This can fit with the theme of the wedding, reflect your heritage or be a favorite unrelated cuisine.

2. Ask guests to provide dietary restrictions and supply these to the caterer.

3. Work with the caterer to provide at least two options for each course. One vegetarian and one meat option for both appetizer and main course are common.

4. Sample the food in advance of the dinner. Make sure the “mild chili soup” isn’t too spicy or the “blackened cod” is cooked through.

5. Describe items clearly on the menu. If a dish is vegan, say so. Don’t leave it to your guests to guess.

Tips & Warnings

• Caterers often deal with picky eaters. If one of your guests can’t eat anything off the menu, ask the chef to prepare an alternate item on the spot. It may cost a little more in the end, but knowing your guests are happy is worth it.
• Rehearsal dinners don’t have to be fancy affairs. A backyard barbecue at which you and your fiancé cook can be just as fun.
• Don’t be afraid to ask a caterer how you can lower the cost. Many will overcharge with the knowledge that clients might counter-offer.

Resources

• www.theknot.com