Setting your wedding reception menu is easy to someone that has planned many weddings. But the beginner who has never planned or catered an event this can be a daunting task.

Below I have listed in easy step-by-step guide to help you with your wedding reception menu.

Time of the wedding reception menu planning:

The time of your wedding reception is very critical of when it comes to choosing your food. Will you have a very upscale and elegant winter dinner or what you have a summer meal in the afternoon? This is one of the most important decisions you will make in your decision is most likely to be made by the availability of your wedding venue.

Wedding menu cost:

You must first figure in your budget. Can you make cost-cutting decisions somewhere? If you have a low budget for your wedding menu then fillet mignon will probably not be an option. The more menu options that you provide, generally more expenses will arise. If you have a tighter budget. Then you might consider having a buffet style menu. You can also opt for a cocktail reception, dessert style menu or finger foods.

Recommendations of your caterer:

If you are having a venue where you must use their caterer. Then consult with them about menu options. Ask them what they will recommend for your number of guests and ask if their is any cost-cutting ideas that they may have if this is your situation. Make sure that your caterer knows your budget and speak with them regularly about ideas for your menu.

Variety:

All of your guests are not the same. They all have different tastes and backgrounds. You should opt for some nice hors d'oeuvres, both hot and cold. You should also consider the vegetarian's. Don't be a fool and just offer only meat on your menu.

Adding your culture:

If you're having a caterer ask them if you can incorporate some of Aunt Janes secret family recipe into the menu. Also, if you are European descent then by all means add your cultures food to your menu.

Mix things up:

Most couples nowadays are not opting for the traditional menu. For example, most couples nowadays are saving money by having a dessert reception or a cocktail hour reception. This is not only saving your budget, but it will add a nice personal touch to your reception.

Tasting:

Make sure you has to go for tasting. You will have a chance to sample many foods and find out what you really like and what are the standouts of this menu. However many caterers, already give you a complimentary tasting before choosing your food. If you would like for your parents or maybe her bridesmaids to attend ask them if there will be any costs incurred.

Hosting:

When choosing your caterer ask what dietary options they have available. Today's couples now want to offer non-redmeat as a part of the menu as well as an option for vegetarians. If your caterer says that they already have a nice veggie platter. Make sure that you taste it and make sure it is acceptable to meet your guests needs. You would not want all of those vegetarians and non-redmeat eaters to really be disappointed and go hungry on your big day.

Check things twice:

Once you have decided on your wedding reception menu make sure you write things down and consider if anything is missing in your menu or is out of place. Show this menu to your bridesmaids or groomsmen and close family members to get their opinions on this menu. Make sure that you decide on this menu with your caterer. Also make sure that they are able to meet your deadlines and no additional costs are incurred.

If you are looking for some wedding reception favors for your wedding guests we got you covered.

We have some nice beach wedding favors such as beach flip flop place card holders, seashell tealights, floating candles and many more.

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By Yolanda Nash

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