George Boyle
Wedding catering is an essential aspect of planning a memorable celebration, and dessert is an integral part of the dining experience. Couples often face the decision of whether to include dessert in their wedding catering package, considering factors such as guest preferences, dietary needs, and budget constraints. This decision can be influenced by various factors, including the caterer's offerings, the wedding theme, and the couple's cultural background. Ultimately, the choice to include dessert in wedding catering depends on the couple's vision for their special day and their desire to create a delightful and sweet ending to the meal.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dessert options | Cakes, cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, brownies, doughnuts, pies, tarts, cheesecakes, macarons, cannoli, candy bars, fruit, pastries, cake pops, cakesicles, etc. |
| Dessert presentation | The dessert table should look professional with elements like flowers, ribbons, and candles. |
| Dessert table catering | The dessert table should reflect the theme of the wedding. For instance, an outdoor wedding could include traditional outdoor desserts like fruit pies, cookies, and brownies. |
| Dessert variety | It is recommended to include 3-5 different dessert options. |
| Dessert portions | Canapé desserts (3 per person) are recommended to cut costs while offering variety. |
| Dessert and dietary requirements | Many desserts contain common allergens like peanuts. Ask your caterer about options that do not include allergens or label them to prevent guests from accidentally consuming them. Some caterers offer desserts for specific dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, etc. |
| Dessert and catering package | Ask your caterer what they provide and what you need to source separately. Some caterers may include dessert in their package, while others may prepare it on demand. |
| Dessert leftovers | Provide to-go boxes for guests to take leftover desserts home to prevent food wastage. |
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What You'll Learn
Dessert options for weddings
Wedding dessert options can be a fun way to showcase your personality as a couple. There are many directions you can take, from a dessert table to a single sweet treat. Here are some ideas to get you started:
The Traditional Wedding Cake
The wedding cake is a classic choice and is often the centrepiece of a dessert table. You can opt for a simple cake or go for something more sophisticated, like a red velvet cake, Oreo cake, or almond torte cake. If you want to stick with tradition but add a twist, consider a Barbie cake or a cake that reflects your cultural heritage.
Dessert Tables
Dessert tables are a popular choice, offering guests a variety of treats to indulge in. You can include anything from cupcakes, brownies, and cookies to more unique options like homemade Pop Tarts, matcha hot cocoa bombs, and cookies shaped like your dog. If you're having an outdoor wedding, consider traditional outdoor desserts like fruit pies, and if you're expecting children, cookies and cupcakes are excellent options.
Seasonal and Cultural Desserts
Consider the season when choosing your dessert. Pumpkin pie is perfect for fall and winter weddings, while blackberry pies are ideal for spring and summer. If you and your partner are from different parts of the world, showcase your heritage with desserts from your respective hometowns or cultural backgrounds.
Interactive Desserts
Get creative with interactive dessert options like a sundae bar, a chocolate fondue fountain with fresh fruit, or a churro station with various toppings. These are fun and engaging, keeping your guests entertained and satisfied.
Single-Bite Treats
If you want to keep the party going, offer small, single-bite treats like mini chocolate mouse pies, fruit tarts, petit fours, or even boozy doughnuts. These can be passed around by attendants or set up at a dedicated station for guests to grab and go.
Presentation and Personalisation
Don't forget the importance of presentation. Add flowers, ribbons, or candles to your dessert table for a romantic touch. Personalise your choices by incorporating family recipes or serving desserts that hold a special meaning for you as a couple.
Remember to consider any dietary restrictions and allergies when making your selections, and always check with your caterer, who can guide you in creating a delicious and inclusive dessert experience for your guests.
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Choosing a caterer
Budget
Firstly, determine your budget. Research the typical cost of wedding caterers in your area and set a budget accordingly. Be transparent with caterers about your budget limitations, as they may be able to create a package that suits your needs.
Timing
It is recommended to start your search for a caterer as soon as possible. Begin your research and consultations around nine months to one year in advance, and try to make a final decision and sign a contract about six to nine months before the wedding if you are using an outside caterer.
Recommendations
Ask your venue coordinator for recommendations, as they often have a list of preferred vendors. Your wedding planner, other vendors, and friends or co-workers who have recently gotten married can also be great sources of referrals.
Style and Menu Options
Consider the style and theme of your wedding when choosing a caterer. If you are having an outdoor wedding, for example, traditional outdoor desserts like fruit pies, cookies, and brownies may be appropriate. If you and your partner have different cultural backgrounds, you may want to include dessert items that are popular in both of your hometowns or cultures. Think about the number of guests you will have and whether you want a dessert buffet or plated desserts.
Reviews and Tastings
Read online reviews on websites like The Knot, Facebook, and Yelp to get a sense of the caterer's past performance and food quality. However, don't rely solely on reviews; be sure to do a tasting before booking to ensure that you enjoy the food and to discuss how your ideas can be incorporated into their menus.
Other Considerations
When interviewing caterers, ask what is included in their fee. For example, do they provide table linens, menu design, and service staff? Also, consider how well they accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions, and whether they can create dessert options that do not include common allergens. Finally, don't forget to ask about presentation, as you want your desserts to look as good as they taste!
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Presentation and styling
Variety in Dessert Options:
Offering a diverse selection of desserts can create a visually appealing display. This can include a mix of bite-sized treats, such as mini pastries, tarts, cupcakes, cake pops, and cookies. Having a variety of options allows guests to sample multiple desserts and caters to different preferences and dietary needs.
Dessert Table Styling:
The dessert table should be styled to align with the theme and style of the wedding. For instance, an outdoor wedding might feature rustic elements like wooden slices as dessert platters, while an elegant indoor wedding could showcase desserts on tiered stands and elegant trays. Consider adding decorative touches such as flowers, ribbons, or candles to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Dessert Display:
The arrangement of desserts on the table is crucial. It should look professional and well-curated. Group similar items together to create a cohesive look, or arrange them by colour to create a visually appealing spread. Consider height variation by using stands or tiered displays to add dimension to the table.
Customisation and Personalisation:
Customised desserts can elevate the styling of the dessert table. This could include adding the wedding colours to the frosting or incorporating the couple's logo or monogram. Personalised touches, such as custom cake toppers or dessert signs, can also make the display more unique and memorable.
Dessert as a Focal Point:
In some cases, the dessert itself can become a focal point of the wedding styling. For example, a towering wedding cake with intricate details or a unique dessert installation, such as a doughnut wall or a cascading chocolate fountain, can serve as a stunning visual centrepiece.
Seasonal and Thematic Considerations:
Styling the dessert table to match the season or wedding theme can create a cohesive and immersive experience. For instance, a fall or winter wedding might feature desserts with warm spices and autumnal colours, while a summer wedding could showcase fresh berries and vibrant, seasonal flowers.
It's important to note that while presentation and styling are essential, the caterer's capabilities and included services should also be considered. Discuss with your caterer their experience in presenting desserts, whether they provide serving materials and dishes, and if they offer customisation options to align with your desired styling.
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Dietary requirements
Communicating with Guests
- Include a dietary preferences section on your RSVP cards or wedding website. Make it straightforward, with checkboxes for standard requirements like vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and a blank space for other requirements and allergies.
- Send a follow-up email or questionnaire to gather more detailed information about allergies or preferences.
- Invite guests with severe allergies to contact you directly so you can ensure their needs are met and communicate their requirements to the caterer.
Choosing a Caterer
- Select a caterer with experience accommodating dietary requirements. They should be able to provide vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergy-friendly options.
- Discuss the costs of accommodating special dietary needs. Some caterers offer package deals that include vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options at a discounted rate.
- Ask the caterer about their ability to accommodate common dietary restrictions. For example, can they provide gluten-free beer or egg-free cocktails?
- Request information on their alternative dishes well in advance so that you can create a separate printed menu for guests with dietary requirements.
Planning the Menu
- Consider cuisines that inherently suit your guests' requirements. For example, Indian food offers many vegetarian options, while Mexican food works well for those with coeliac disease.
- Ensure that there is enough food to meet everyone's needs. Guests with dietary restrictions would prefer a filling main dish over a few canapés or dessert options.
- Accommodate younger guests with dietary restrictions by asking the caterer to prepare a special sweet treat for them, as they may feel left out if others are having ice cream.
- Provide a DIY dessert table where guests with dietary requirements can bring their own treats. Label the treats to ensure guests know which are suitable for them.
On the Day
- Label dishes with what they are and any allergens they contain.
- Train staff to be knowledgeable about allergen-friendly options and how to prevent cross-contamination.
- Provide servers with a list of guests requiring special meals to ensure they receive the correct food.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your wedding catering is inclusive and safe for all your guests, allowing them to relax and enjoy the celebration.
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Cost
The cost of wedding catering that includes dessert can vary depending on several factors, including the type of dessert, the number of guests, the location of the wedding, and the catering service chosen. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with wedding catering desserts:
Type of Dessert
The type of dessert served at a wedding can significantly impact the overall cost. Simple desserts such as cookies, brownies, and mini bites can be a more affordable option, while elaborate specialty cakes, dessert bars, or interactive food experiences will likely incur higher costs. For example, a single-tier cake may cost around $60, while a full sheet cake to serve 70-80 guests can range from $120 to $200. A dessert bar or interactive station, such as a chocolate fondue fountain or a creme brulee bar, can cost upwards of $450 or even $3000 for 60 guests.
Number of Guests
The number of guests attending the wedding will directly influence the cost of catering. Couples should consider providing at least 2-3 dessert options to cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions. On average, couples spent $80 per person on catering in 2024, with domestic destination weddings averaging $104 per person and international destinations averaging $114. For a wedding with 120 guests, the total catering cost, including dessert, can range from $600 to $1200 or more.
Location of Wedding
The location of the wedding can also affect catering costs. Local and regional specialties, such as craft beer, produce, or regional delicacies, can add a unique touch to the dessert offerings while potentially increasing or decreasing costs, depending on the region.
Catering Service
The choice of catering service can significantly impact the cost of wedding desserts. Using a well-known bakery or a specialized dessert caterer may result in higher prices. Opting for a package deal that includes catering and the venue can sometimes lead to discounts or more affordable options. Additionally, couples can save money by choosing a less formal dining style, such as a buffet, which tends to be more affordable than plated dinners.
When planning a wedding, it is essential to consider the overall budget and prioritize the elements that are most important to the couple. By comparing prices, seeking recommendations, and being flexible with dessert options, couples can find creative ways to offer delicious treats to their guests while staying within their budget.
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Frequently asked questions
Dessert options for wedding catering include cakes, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, pies, ice cream, and more. You can also choose to have a dessert bar or a dessert buffet with a variety of options for your guests.
Yes, you can include desserts that are popular in your and your partner's hometowns or specific to your culture. You can also customise the colour of frosting and sprinkles or include a custom photo or logo on top of your desserts.
It is recommended to include 3-5 different dessert options. Including more than 5 options may overwhelm your guests and some desserts may go to waste. However, if you expect a large number of guests, having at least 2 options is ideal.
Yes, you can include desserts that cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, allergy-safe, and other dietary requirements. Be sure to ask your caterer about their ability to accommodate special requests.
In addition to the desserts themselves, consider the presentation and arrangement of the dessert table. Also, ask your caterer about the services they will provide, such as cake cutting and serving, trash removal, table clearing, and washing dishes.
