It can be not easy to choose the right menu for your wedding. Emma Phillips talks to Michael McCafferty of Prestige Catering, the managing director and executive Chef, about the most popular dishes, the best way to design a menu that suits your style, and the qualities to look for when choosing a caterer.
It can be not easy to choose the right menu for your reception. You need to take into account dietary restrictions and seasonal restrictions and, most importantly, select dishes that guests will like. Enlisting the help of a professional caterer can make this process more enjoyable for both you and your partner.
Consider the style of your wedding before choosing a caterer. For a formal sit-down wedding reception, a five-course meal would be ideal, while a gourmet BBQ or food stalls might work better for a cocktail-style soiree.
An Honest Opinion
Sit down with your caterer to discuss your current plans. You will be able to build a relationship with your caterer and ensure that they are able to meet all of your requirements. McCafferty says that a caterer must be willing to work with the couple and listen to them to develop a menu style and service suited for their wedding. The most important thing is to feel comfortable with your caterer.
McCafferty suggests asking for references from past clients to ensure that you get high-quality, professional catering services. You can read reviews from previous clients before you commit to a company. It is also possible to speak to vendors that the caterer previously worked with in order to get a better understanding of the level of professionalism the company has and its ability to adapt.
Communication Is Key
McCafferty believes that communication is key to building a trusting relationship with your caterer. He says it’s important to communicate with your caterer so that both parties know what to expect. The more information that the caterer receives, the better prepared they will be.
Give your caterer plenty of advance notice about any venue or dietary restrictions. McCafferty says that last-minute changes to the menu will happen, but a professional caterer can accommodate them with ease.
Personal Preference
You and your partner can create the atmosphere you want on your wedding day by choosing a menu. Casual weddings, with grazing platters or picnics, are ideal for brides who want to keep things simple. McCafferty says that “share plates” are popular right now, but they are not the only thing. Gourmet barbecues and food stalls are also very common. “Caterers are now working with couples to make sure everything fits the style of wedding they want.”
A professional caterer will work with you and your guests to create an exquisite menu. McCafferty says that good caterers can provide great food regardless of how they serve it. “[It] all comes down to what a couple wants.”
The Changing Seasons
You may want to select a menu that takes into account the food in season during your wedding. Professional caterers can customize dishes according to your needs and use fresh ingredients that match the style of wedding you want. McCafferty explains that the weather and season play a major role in the style and [menu] of a wedding. It’s crucial to plan a menu according to the season so that the guests can enjoy themselves and the produce is readily available. Nobody wants heavy soups or meals during the summer. Your caterer will advise you on the best items to choose if you plan well in advance.
Special Request
Make sure that there are intolerant-friendly options available to cater to those with food allergies or intolerances. McCafferty suggests asking guests to provide their dietary requirements during the RSVP process. It will make sure that no one is left out of a meal, and the catering team can offer food that’s not on the menu. McCafferty explains that dietary requirements are now so common that most menus can be adapted to accommodate them.
Trending Treats
The traditional plate service method is a timeless and elegant way to offer guests a memorable dining experience. McCafferty notes that some of the most popular dishes this season include sous-vide beef filet, masala tiger shrimps, coriander rice, and spiced yogurt for the entree. For the main course, McCafferty recommends sous-vide beef, followed by gorgonzola with toffee walnut anglaise as a dessert.
McCafferty reports an increase in the number of bookings for casual dining. He says that other dishes are also very popular, including smoked brisket with slaw, chipotle, and gochujang fried chicken baos with pickled carrots, as well as traditional Spanish seafood paella. These work well as food stations or stalls, and they add the drama of a chef preparing the dishes in front of guests.
A Lasting Impressions
A caterer is an important decision to make for your wedding. Find someone who can meet your needs and give you advice on the best choices available. McCafferty suggests contacting your preferred catering company in advance. There’s nothing more frustrating than spending hours searching for the perfect vendor only to find them fully booked on your wedding day.
The choice of a caterer can make or break your wedding. You’ll be able to create a menu that will delight your guests if you choose a caterer with whom you feel comfortable. McCafferty says that the most important thing on your wedding day is to spend time with family and friends. Don’t worry about small details, as suppliers will take care of them. Relax and enjoy the day because it’ll be over in no time.
