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The dinner that you serve at your wedding reception is a meal that you will remember for the rest of your life. This celebratory event should be honored with a well-planned menu. Here are three areas to focus on as you plan your wedding reception dinner menu.
Drinks
Kick-off your party in style with a fun drink menu. The drink selection is the ideal place to add a personal touch. One of the latest trends in reception menu planning is to provide a specialty cocktail that is reflective of your personality. Or maybe you can serve a wine that was bottled during the year that you met your partner? Keep in mind that the effect of alcohol depends on how much is consumed, so it’s a good idea to limit the amount your guests can drink. Setting a cut-off time is a good way to enforce the limits.
Main Course
Moving on to the main course, this is where your menu choices should shine. The first thing that you need to decide is if you want a sit-down dinner or if you would rather set up a buffet. The style and formality of your wedding will largely dictate this selection. Be sure to offer at least two main course choices if you go with a plated dinner. Do not try to skimp on portion sizes just to save money. If you are planning a destination wedding, this is a great way to incorporate the local flavors into the theme of your wedding. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box with your main course selections.
Desserts
The centerpiece of any wedding reception is the cake. However, you do not have to limit yourself to a traditional wedding cake. You can make your reception more modern by having a variety of cupcakes or mini-desserts available instead of the classic tiered cake. One of the hottest trends in wedding reception planning is the donut wall. If you are having a cozy winter wedding, a hot chocolate bar with all of the toppings is always a fun idea. An ice cream sundae buffet is always a hit during the summer wedding season.
Once you have set your budget and you know the vibe that you want to create, the ideas for your menu will begin to flow naturally. Have fun with this part of the process and let your personality shine in your menu choices.
Here’s another article you might like: Dj, Band or Ipod – What will you use for your Reception?