Wedding Food Ideas

Many people expect a few basic things to eat at a wedding reception. Either a formal sit-down meal with a few predictable options, or a buffet full of predictable options that could probably be guessed beforehand. There are usually good reasons why certain foods always come up at weddings: they tend to be enjoyed and have been made often by caterers so often they can be done cheaper and quicker.

But why not mix it up a little bit to surprise and delight your guests? Not only that, but if you pick the right foods, it can be not only memorable, but romantic as well.

Play the Theme

One way to pick your foods is to work with your theme. This might be something really outlandish like a Klingon gagh replica or it might be something more straightforward like pineapple options with every course. This works great for seasonal themes, especially if your wedding is early in the season when everyone is still enjoying seasonal foods. Sometimes this is really easy to do—caterers are often experienced with theme weddings and for many of the more common themes have an entire spread ready.

Pick a Personal Favorite (or Two!)

One way to make sure you’re giving people something special is to make sure it’s something that has meaning for you as a couple. Maybe it’s a food you ate on your first date. Or something you have enjoyed together. Or maybe it’s a childhood food for each of you, like a family recipe. If you have a food that’s special for you in some way, make sure you share the story so that all your guests can enjoy it.

For an extra special moment: make it a surprise for your beloved (but only if you’re really sure that it’s a food they love).

Keep It Fresh

One complaint a lot of people have about wedding food is that it’s all pre-prepared and dripping in gravy, sauce, or juice. If it’s appropriate for your wedding, pick seasonal and local foods that can be prepared fresh. Many of your guests will be happy to have such light, healthy, and flavorful options. Of course, there will always be some people that look forward to fried fare, which brings us to our last point.

Be Inclusive

These days, it’s likely that your wedding guests will include many people with different dietary restrictions. No matter how you feel about their choices or beliefs, it’s a good idea to try to include vegetarian (or even vegan), gluten-free, and kosher options for your guests. You don’t have to eat it, after all. And remember, the food you serve is the only part of the wedding that is as much—or more—for your guests as it is for you.

If you would like to talk about specific menu options that we have seen go over well at our Denver wedding venue, please call 303-557-2347 or contact Stonebrook Manor today for a personal tour.