How to Plan a Gluten-Free Wedding
Planning any type of wedding is a difficult task that requires a lot of work. In recognition of the numerous food sensitivities that are experienced by so many people in society today, and in an attempt to accommodate those who cannot eat food containing gluten, many couples are seeking alternatives to the traditional wedding menu. Gluten-free weddings, once unheard of, are making their way into the mainstream. By conducting some research, planning your own gluten-free wedding is possible if you are up for the challenge.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Contact vendors and inquire about gluten-free dining. Find out if they understand gluten-free food or if they are willing to learn about gluten-free options. Discuss their knowledge of gluten. Many people are aware of gluten in bread but do not realize that it is found in many common ingredients used during cooking, including sauces made from flour, glazes, MSG, modified food starch and textured vegetable protein. Make an appointment to meet in person.
-
2
Decide on the guest list for your wedding, and come up with an average number of expected guests. Keep in mind the season that you are getting married, which may limit some fresh food choices. Visit sites such as Glutenfree.com and Glutenfreeda.com for menu ideas. Check out the gluten-free dishes that you may want to serve at your wedding, such as pan-roasted salmon with warm tomato vinaigrette, roasted chicken with tarragon butter, Italian sausage soup and roasted rib steak with wine sauce and mushrooms. Print out the recipes that interest you, and add them to your journal.
-
-
3
When meeting with your vendors, be prepared and organized. Bring your journal and show examples of possible gluten-free recipes. Discuss your expectations for the wedding and your flexibility with gluten-free foods. Mixing some gluten-free dishes with some standard dishes may provide more options for your guests, but if you are committed to a 100 percent gluten-free wedding, let the vendor know that up front.
-
4
When you select a vendor, place your trust in his abilities. If you have come to an agreement on gluten-free food and he understands your requests, have confidence that he will get the job done right. He will be more at ease and feel more confident knowing that you have entrusted him with this important task, and by delegating, you can focus your efforts on other aspects of the wedding plan. Contact him from time to time to check progress, but do not micro-manage.
-
5
Consider sending guests home with gluten-free favors such as gourmet chocolates, after the reception. (See Resources.) Inquire with local caterers about gluten-free miniature carrot cakes and cupcakes. Visit Taffytree.com to view selections of gluten-free taffy in a variety of flavors.
-
6
Use the wedding as an opportunity to show your friends and family how delicious gluten-free food can be. If your having a buffet-style dinner, consider placing small signs that explain the dish and include a note about them being gluten-free. If you are having printed menus, add a gluten-free note at the bottom. Let your gluten-free menu reflect your lifestyle and showcase your commitment to health and wellness.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit flickr.com/photos/26396944@N02/3677273416
