2010-03-17 08:00:00 by SMARTBRIDE
Wedding Advice: Is it possible to find a meal that meets everyone's needs?
Dietary Restrictions
One of the very first questions that I ask couples regarding catering and food is, "are there any dietary restrictions we should be aware of?" These restrictions can play a big part in the meal you choose to serve your guests. If you live with dietary restrictions due to allergies, medical conditions, or personal dietary choices, your wedding day is NOT the day to "forget about it".
First, what is the restriction? Simple things like vegetarianism or low salt diets are easy to accommodate with any typical wedding menu. Medical conditions like celiac disease, diabetes, and serious allergies to shellfish and peanuts for example, require a little more management to ensure guest safety. The first step is to be open and honest about these restrictions with your planner and caterer to ensure they can make adjustments as necessary.
The Menu
Once you’ve determined the dietary considerations and told those in your 'need-to-know' circle about your concerns, you need to ask yourself, “What type of food do I enjoy?” Is Thai all the rage in your house? Do you love Italian? Perhaps you crave sushi! What type of meal will make for a great celebration?
Sure, steak and champagne may be fine for the masses but if you’re a non-drinking vegetarian I suggest you skip this option! Often your venue, theme, and personal tastes come into play when choosing the meal to serve.
If you want your wedding to be the talk of the town serve your guests food that you adore! The food at a wedding makes a big impression. People may not remember the flowers or the Bride’s hairdo, but they will always remember the meal and whether or not it was good or bad! Think carefully about what you serve your guests!
Be A Gracious Host
After choosing a cuisine style, it’s time to work with your planner and caterer to make considerations for guests who have food restrictions. You shouldn’t have to compromise on the taste or quality of the meal for these guests.
For those who have diabetes, you may want to swap out the brandy snap basket for some fresh fruit instead. If you have a guest with peanut allergies, you may need to choose a Thai dish that does not have peanut sauce. For vegetarians, you can simply provide a tofu option. Be considerate and thoughtful when making substitutions. Don't treat it like a chore when working to ensure your loved ones feel just that… loved.
Finally (I love this!), make any guests with dietary restrictions feel special rather than like a hindrance to your celebration. Always let them know that you've arranged a special meal for them and that it was absolutely no trouble at all. You want to make them feel as welcome on your big day as if they were in your own home. There is nothing more humbling than a couple that truly does love and care for each of their guests, no matter how many of them there are.
Food for thought!
Happy Planning,
Crystal Adair-Benning
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About our Guest Blogger: Crystal Adair-Benning
Distinct Occasions is a proud boutique Wedding Planning firm based in Toronto, Canada, but with satellite offices in Glasgow, Scotland and soon Perth, Western Australia! Providing worldly inspired, creative, detailed, luxurious and intimate weddings, Crystal and her team will help you get the "ohhh" and "awww" for your special day.
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