WeddingPath News 1st Sept 2006 538 views

As you all know, food is one of my favourite subjects to talk about. Actually, it is one of my favourite subjects to think about as well. Come to think of it, food may just be my favourite thing ever!

We got a lovely email from a b2b recently asking for advice on wedding-day catering choices as she was at a loss for where to start. With her email in mind, we hope you find the following information useful. By the way, if there is a subject you would like me to cover, please drop me a note and I will do my best.

The first decision you're likely to face is whether to offer your guests a full sit-down meal, served by waiting staff, or a more casual, buffet-type style. Your choice will be influenced by the type of reception you are having and, of course, your budget. As wedding celebrations tend to last many hours, it is often considered the norm to provide snacks or a buffet later in the evening, in addition to the main meal.

A banquet (sit-down meal) is usually the more costly option (depending on what dishes you select) and has a more formal feel. It is a great time for friends and family to catch up with each other and, of course, ensures a settled audience for the speeches. A nice little tip is to ask your guests to swap tables near the end of the meal (i.e. during dessert or coffee). This makes sure different groups of people spend time with each other.

If you opt for a buffet-style meal, you have the possible advantage of guests mingling more as they eat, which can lead to a very social occasion. In addition, the informality of a buffet can work well if there are restless children among your guests!

Whether you opt for one of the above options or something entirely different, little touches can make all the difference. For example, we all know that disposable cameras on each table can make for some great memories, but recently a b2b on the forum had a superb twist on this. She suggested downloading guests' digital photos onto an inexpensive 'memory stick' on the day. Have a trusted friend on hand to take care of the downloading towards the end of the proceedings. You can then transfer the photos to your computer and enjoy the photos right away. Alternatively, just tell your guests to use WeddingPath's easy-to-use Photoshare facility to help you create the ultimate record of your big day.

The season that you are getting married in is likely to influence the food you choose. If you are having a winter wedding you may want to consider soups and hot food, whereas a summer wedding may call for more salads and fruits.

If your venue or a reputable caterer is taking care of the food, they will almost certainly take this into account. If less-experienced individuals such as family or friends are in charge, a good place to start is to find out what foods are in season at the time of your wedding and base your dishes around those. This way, you should be able to get nice fresh produce from a local supplier. As well as being a great move environmentally (less fuel used for transport), this is a way of supporting the local community, and the food will often taste much better, too.

Choosing your caterer can be a lot of fun, but tricky. There are specialised wedding-catering businesses to consider, but if you have a favourite local restaurant, you may want to ask them if they will cater your wedding. Let them know your budget and ask them what options they could provide. Don't be uncomfortable about asking several companies; it pays to shop around.

Most caterers will prepare small 'taster' dishes for you and your partner to try out in advance. This is great fun, and helps you choose your favourite dishes for your final menu. Also, it really helps you make decisions on what courses work well together.

You may also want to ask your caterer what they do with any left over food. A lovely gesture is to have any leftovers delivered to a local homeless shelter and some caterers will agree to this.

• Remember to discuss special dietary requirements (vegetarian etc) with your caterers early on.
• To add a truly personal touch, why not ask your caterers if they will make an old family recipe (such as your Gran's special whisky trifle).
• For a buffet with a difference, why not consider ethnic foods such as sushi or tapas?
• Chicken tends to be an inexpensive option for your main course.
• For the kids' meals, why not give them fun names, such as 'Skywalker soup with Jedi Knight rolls'?
• Remember to check with your caterers to see if linens etc are included in their quote.
• Don't forget the cake!

We added a a topic on the forum especially to discuss menu ideas and swap tips.

This week's newsletter is sponsored by the following companies, please consider visiting their websites.

The Best Designer Cakes - "we are committed to making your special day uniquely special, even beyond your wildest imagination"

The Pink Pumpkin - we are a "wedding design, planning and coordination company, who will turn your wedding day dreams into reality"

Love and apples!!!