2025 Bridal Guide | Page 2

16 | Thursday , February 6 , 2025 Forest Lake Times

How to manage the menu at your wedding reception

Wedding receptions are the culmination of a lot of planning . Though there may not be any insignificant decisions when planning the post-ceremony party , some choices will loom larger than others , including which foods will be served . When planning a wedding reception , couples can choose a venue that provides the food , such as a traditional reception center ; otherwise , the reception may take place at an outdoor location or a venue that is not equipped to prepare and serve food . In the latter instances , couples will contract with an outside caterer . In both situations certain factors can help determine who to use for reception food services .

PLANNING A traditional reception center / catering hall is likely a wise choice for couples who prefer simplicity in wedding day meal planning . These facilities are experts at addressing all of the components that go into a reception . Such venues offer access to a cocktail area and banquet room , and the facility likely has a staff of chefs at the ready to dish up meals . While many reception centers offer restaurant-quality offerings , scouting venues and sampling dishes will provide an idea of how foods taste and help

couples narrow down their choices .

PREFERENCES Some receptions are multi-course events starting from the moment guests arrive and snack on hors d ’ oeuvres to the dessert display served as a final course . Others are low-key and may not have full sit-down service . If you prefer a cocktail atmosphere only , certain venues may make more sense than others . Identifying how much food to have and the type of service desired can help pinpoint caterers to interview .

CHEF ACCESS

Having a specific chef or cuisine in mind may require separating the food from a venue . Reception centers likely will not allow couples to bring in their own food . Therefore , you will have to find a venue where outside food is possible . Then you can work with a favorite chef for catering services .

ALLERGIES

Food allergies and intolerances are on the minds of many nowadays . It is important to be mindful of food restrictions when speaking with caterers . Take careful inventory of work-arounds so that every guest at the wedding can be enjoy a safe , delicious meal .

The wedding reception menu is an important variable for engaged

couples to consider . A host of factors may come into consideration as couples try to determine how to feed their guests come

their wedding day .

LOCATION Some couples prefer to combine their ceremony and reception at one spot . This may be at a beachside location or in a converted country barn . If this seems like a scenario you are considering , then the venue will take priority and you ’ ll have to find an outside caterer to service the wedding .

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Reception

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