the planner
Take a page from these local wedding experts when planning your upcoming nuptials .
SMALL BITES
“ Some clients still want the traditional three- or fourcourse sit-down meal , whereas other clients have a more modern venue with limited space . In 2023 , we have a client getting married at a distillery , and guests will be eating at picnic benches and high-top tables . It ’ s a much more casual feel so small bites would be more appropriate in this setting .”
— Bailey Reynolds , owner of Gourmet Bae , gourmetbae . com
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
“ Experiences are everything , and couples today are eager for immersive celebrations . Menus brimming with globally inspired flavors , rich textures and visual vibrancy deliver the unexpected . Create a wedding that pairs culinary excellence in a unique setting to wow your guests .”
— Kori Carter Gillespie , director of brand marketing at The Catered Affair , thecateredaffair . com
MODERN VEGETARIAN
“ Creative vegetarian dishes are wildly popular . Our fall harvest salad with beets , roasted squash , maitake mushrooms , goat cheese , sourdough crisps , black garlic and lemon vinaigrette is a top choice by clients . We are constantly innovating new menu concepts based on clients ’ evolving tastes and preferences .”
— Kori Carter Gillespie , director of brand marketing at The Catered Affair , thecateredaffair . com
FLEXIBLE FARE
“ We offer the couple seasonal , custom menus to review which have traditional offerings as well as vegetarian and naturally gluten-free options . As someone who is glutenfree and vegetarian , I understand the need for delicious food while accommodating those with dietary restrictions . We are super flexible when it comes to making additional items gluten-free and we also have a separate vegetarian / vegan menu available on request . Ultimately , it ’ s all about adapting to the situation at hand .”
— Bailey Reynolds , owner of Gourmet Bae , gourmetbae . com
PETITE PLATES
“ Enjoy a strolling reception and indulge in a variety of menu options . Moroccan beef short ribs with chermoula and honey , charred eggplant and butter beans are a favorite . Another top choice is crisp panisse with preserved lemon aioli and pickled vegetables . Savor every moment on your wedding day , with bold flavor and unforgettable presentation , served by professional servers .”
— Kori Carter Gillespie , director of brand marketing at The Catered Affair , thecateredaffair . com
A CLEAN SWEEP
“ Guest gifts are still a trend and our ‘ I Can ’ t Say I Do Without You ’ boxes are still very in ! Our bridal party gift boxes are available for men and women , are tailored to each individual and can match the main colors of the wedding . Sets usually include a decorative bar soap , whipped soap and a whipped body butter / lotion , packaged and decked out for a meaningful and fun experience .”
— Jeanette Mollis , owner of Herbs and Mylk , herbsandmylk . com
PERSONALIZED PAMPERING
“ For guest gifts , my biggest requests are orders for mini soap bars that are personalized to match the theme of the wedding . I send out a questionnaire to gain some knowledge of the colors , scents , vibe and desires of the couple and I get to work . My goal is to contribute to making the special couple ’ s day all the more intimate and magical !”
— Jeanette Mollis , owner of Herbs and Mylk , herbsandmylk . com
A SWEET TREAT
“ Consider your guests when picking flavors . For boxed favors , we recommend a mix of milk and dark chocolate , soft center , firm center and caramel . For molded novelties , we also recommend a mix of milk and dark chocolate . Favors can be personalized with box and ribbon colors but the chocolates themselves should appeal to the masses .”
— Lisa Sweenor , co-owner of Sweenor ’ s Chocolates , sweenorschocolates . com
SNEAK A PEEK
“ We absolutely recommend a first look at a wedding ! It allows for a more relaxed timeline , less stress , being able to spend more time with your soon-to-be spouse and enjoying cocktail hour with your guests !”
— Matt Celeste , owner of Blueflash Photography , blueflashphotography . com
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
“ We love to take our couples back outside after dark and do some portraits with interesting lighting . We try to get romantic and cinematic shots that you can ’ t get otherwise . For daytime photos you can add some interest with smoke grenades for a really awesome effect .”
— Matt Celeste , owner of Blueflash Photography , blueflashphotography . com
18 | ENGAGED IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2023