Wedding Invite Wording: Tapas Reception, Include Or Exclude?

Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when it comes to deciding what food to serve. One option that is becoming increasingly popular is a tapas-style reception, where guests can enjoy a variety of small plates and appetizers. This style of dining can be a great way to encourage guests to mingle and create a relaxed and social atmosphere. However, it is important to consider the logistics of serving tapas and whether it is the best option for your wedding. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of a tapas-style reception and provide tips on how to include this information on your wedding invitations.

Should I include the type of food on the invite?

Including the type of food on the invite is a matter of personal preference, but it can be a helpful addition to your wedding invitations. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to include the food details:

Providing Food Information Can Be Helpful to Guests

Adding details about the food can be beneficial, especially if you're serving a less traditional meal or have guests with dietary restrictions. For example, if you're having a tapas-style reception, your guests may not be familiar with this format, so including a brief explanation can help set expectations. It can also be helpful to mention if you're serving heavy hors d'oeuvres or a full sit-down meal, so guests know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

Consider Any Special Dietary Requirements

If you have guests with dietary restrictions, such as food allergies or vegetarian/vegan preferences, it might be a good idea to give them a heads-up about the food options. This way, they can make alternative arrangements if needed. However, be mindful that listing specific dishes may raise questions or concerns from guests with dietary restrictions, so be prepared to handle those inquiries.

Keep in Mind the Tone and Formality of Your Wedding

The level of formality of your wedding can also guide your decision. If you're having a more casual or non-traditional wedding, including fun and creative details about the food can add to the overall experience. On the other hand, if you're having a formal or traditional wedding, you may want to keep the invitation wording more concise and elegant.

Manage Guest Expectations

Including food details can help manage your guests' expectations, especially if you're serving a unique menu or have a specific theme. For instance, if you're having a tapas-style reception, guests may appreciate knowing that they'll be able to enjoy a variety of small plates and socialise while eating. This can also encourage a more interactive and social atmosphere, which may be a pleasant surprise for your guests.

Consider the Space Available on the Invitation

When deciding what to include on your invitation, think about the space available. If you have a lot of other information to convey, you may need to prioritise and be concise. In this case, you could opt to include only a brief mention of the food style, such as "Tapas and cocktails to follow." If you have additional enclosure cards or a wedding website, you can provide more details there.

Be Mindful of Cultural Sensitivities

Depending on your guest list and cultural backgrounds, mentioning specific foods or dishes may be important. For example, if you're serving cultural or ethnic cuisine, it can be a nice touch to highlight this on the invitation. This can also help guests understand the theme and experience you're creating for your special day.

What are the pros and cons of a tapas-style reception?

A tapas-style wedding reception can be a fun and unique way to celebrate your big day and treat your guests to a memorable dining experience. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding if a tapas-style reception is right for you:

Pros:

• Variety of Options: Tapas allows your guests to enjoy a variety of dishes and flavours, ensuring something for everyone. This can be especially beneficial if you have guests with different dietary restrictions or preferences.
• Social and Interactive Atmosphere: Tapas encourages guests to mingle, interact, and move around, creating a lively and social atmosphere. This format can be more engaging than a traditional sit-down dinner, where guests remain at their assigned tables.
• Flexibility and Personalisation: A tapas reception offers flexibility in terms of food choices, presentation, and service style. You can choose from various serving options, such as small plates, action stations, or passed trays. This format also allows you to incorporate your favourite dishes and create a unique menu that reflects your personality.
• Suits Large Guest Lists: If you have a large number of guests, tapas can be a more manageable option than a formal sit-down dinner, eliminating the need to arrange guests into specific groups.

Cons:

• Food Amount and Timing: One of the biggest concerns with tapas is ensuring there is enough food to satisfy your guests. It is important to have a variety of options and substantial dishes to ensure guests do not leave hungry. The timing of your reception also matters—if held during a typical meal time, guests may expect a more substantial offering.
• Catering and Cost: Finding caterers who specialise in tapas-style dining may be more challenging, and it is important to communicate your vision clearly. This style of service may also be more expensive than a traditional plated meal, as you will need a larger volume and variety of food.
• Guest Expectations: Some guests may have certain expectations about wedding reception meals, and a tapas-style format may not appeal to everyone. It is important to consider your guest list and any specific dietary needs or preferences. Communicating the reception style on your invitation can help set expectations.
• Planning and Logistics: A tapas reception may require more planning and coordination, especially if dishes are brought out separately. Ensuring a steady flow of food and managing the timing between dishes can be more complex than a traditional buffet or plated service.

Ultimately, the decision to have a tapas-style reception depends on your personal preferences, guest list dynamics, and the overall vision for your wedding. While a tapas reception can offer a unique and engaging dining experience, it is important to carefully consider the potential challenges and ensure you have the right support to execute your vision successfully.

How do I find a caterer for a tapas-style reception?

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but it helps when you have a clear vision for your special day. If you're looking for a fun, interactive, and social atmosphere for your wedding reception, a tapas-style dinner could be a great option. Here are some tips on how to find the perfect caterer for your tapas-style wedding reception:

Define Your Vision and Budget

Before reaching out to caterers, it's essential to have a clear idea of what you want for your reception. Consider the number of guests, your budget, and the level of service you desire. Do you want a buffet-style tapas dinner, or would you prefer a more formal plated service? Having a clear vision will make it easier to communicate your needs to potential caterers.

Research and Recommendations

Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or other couples who have recently tied the knot. They may have valuable insights or suggestions for caterers who can execute your tapas-style vision. Additionally, look for caterers who specialize in tapas or creative, customizable menus. Online platforms like Thumbtack or WeddingWire can be excellent resources for finding caterers in your area.

Communicate Your Requirements

When reaching out to caterers, be clear about your expectations and requirements. Discuss your desired menu, including any specific tapas dishes or themes you have in mind. It's also essential to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies your guests may have and communicate these to the caterer. Ask about their experience with similar events and their ability to accommodate your requests.

Tastings and Trials

A menu tasting is a crucial step in choosing the right caterer. It allows you to sample the food and ensure that it meets your expectations. Consider it a trial run for your wedding day, and don't be afraid to provide feedback. This is also an excellent opportunity to discuss the presentation and service style you envision for the tapas.

Finalize the Details

Once you've selected a caterer, finalize all the details, including the menu, service style, timing, and any rental items you may need. Be sure to get everything in writing, including a detailed contract outlining the services provided, costs, and any other relevant information. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and reduce the risk of misunderstandings.

On the Day Coordination

On your wedding day, ensure that a designated person, such as the maid of honor or best man, is available to coordinate with the caterers and handle any last-minute issues. This will allow you to relax and enjoy your special day while knowing that everything is under control.

Remember, finding the right caterer for your tapas-style wedding reception is about clear communication and attention to detail. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable and unique dining experience for you and your guests.

How much food do I need to serve?

Deciding how much food to serve at your wedding can be tricky, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best approach is to consult directly with your caterer, but here are some general guidelines to help you plan.

Firstly, it's important to finalise your guest count to work out food expenses. Most caterers will account for food in ounces based on the total number of guests. For cocktail hour, plan to serve at least two single-appetizer portions per guest, but three to five is a safer bet. If you're serving salad, account for eight ounces (or roughly one cup) per guest. For sides, order four to six ounces per side, per guest, and for entrees, plan for six to eight-ounce portions per guest.

If you're serving buffet-style, you may need to account for larger portion sizes as guests will be serving themselves. Consider hiring staff to serve from the buffet to keep portions consistent.

If you're serving tapas, it's important to ensure there is enough food and variety to keep your guests satisfied. Tapas are small, savoury dishes, and your guests may eat more than usual as they can try many different things. Aim for a good mix of meat and vegetarian options, and consider dietary restrictions and allergies. You may want to bring out multiple dishes at once, rather than one at a time, so that guests with specific dietary needs don't have to wait too long between dishes.

For a tapas-style reception, you could choose a few appetizer-style foods and then several small meat and veggie dishes. You could also set up food stations with fillers like cheese, veggies, dips, and hot tapas. Another option is to have plates of tapas served to each table for guests to pass around and share, just like at a tapas restaurant.

Remember, it's important to communicate with your caterer about your vision and any specific requirements to ensure they can meet your needs.

How do I serve the food?

There are several ways to serve tapas at your wedding reception. Here are some ideas:

• Passed plates: Waiters can bring out small plates of tapas and pass them around the tables. This ensures that everyone gets to try a variety of dishes.
• Food stations: You can set up different stations around the room, each offering a different type of tapas. This encourages guests to mingle and creates a lively atmosphere.
• Buffet-style: Although you may want to avoid the look of a traditional buffet, you can set up several buffet tables with different types of tapas. This allows guests to choose what they want and go back for seconds.
• Family-style: Similar to a buffet, but the food is placed on tables for guests to pass around and share. This encourages a sense of community and is a good option if you want to avoid the look of a traditional buffet.
• Action stations: These are similar to food stations, but with an interactive element. For example, you could have a chef carving meat or a flambé station.
• Platters on each table: You can place platters of tapas on each table for guests to help themselves. This ensures that everyone has access to food and creates a communal feeling.

When planning how to serve the food, consider the number of guests you'll have and the layout of your venue. You want to ensure that there is enough food for everyone and that it's easily accessible. It's also important to think about any guests who may have food allergies or dietary restrictions. Make sure there are options available for them, and clearly label any dishes that may contain common allergens.

Frequently asked questions