Franklin Dean
Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, especially when it comes to deciding what time to serve food. It is important to consider the type of food being served, the number of guests, and the duration of the wedding ceremony. While some couples opt for a full dinner service, others may choose to serve heavy hors d'oeuvres or a late-night meal. Ultimately, the decision depends on the couple's preferences and budget.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time of day | Evening weddings typically start at 5:30 pm, 6 pm or 6:30 pm |
| Dinner service | Around 7 pm, 7:30 pm, 8 pm or 9 pm |
| Dinner indication on invitation | "Dinner and dancing to follow", "Reception to follow", "Merriment to follow", or "Join us after the ceremony for cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and dancing" |
| Alternatives to a full dinner | Heavy hors d'oeuvres (shrimp cocktail, steak kebabs, chicken wings, etc.), a brunch with a Bloody Mary bar, or a lighter lunch with a fruity Bellini |
| Dinner pacing | Plated courses are spaced out based on how long it takes guests to eat. A typical dinner service for 150 individuals will be around an hour and a half |
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What You'll Learn
Catering options: self-catering, full-service, or drop-off
Catering is a significant aspect of wedding planning, and there are various options to consider, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Self-catering, full-service catering, and drop-off catering are the three primary alternatives. Here is some information to help you make an informed decision:
Self-Catering
Self-catering can be a cost-effective option for couples on a tight budget. It allows you to save money, sometimes thousands of dollars, by preparing the food yourself or with the help of family and friends. It can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy cooking and have a small guest list. However, it is essential to consider the amount of work and stress involved. Poor planning or underestimating the workload can lead to higher food costs or an enjoyable experience turning into a tedious task. It is crucial to ensure that you and your loved ones can relax and savour the moments leading up to your wedding.
Full-Service Catering
Full-service catering is a convenient and stress-free option that includes food, beverages, and staff. While it tends to be more expensive, ranging from $50 to upwards of $300 per person, it eliminates the hassle of cooking and coordinating food preparation. This option allows you and your loved ones to focus on enjoying the wedding festivities without worrying about the logistics of feeding a large group. Full-service catering also provides a more elegant and formal dining experience, ensuring that your guests are well taken care of.
Drop-Off Catering
Drop-off catering offers a middle ground between self-catering and full-service catering. It typically involves hiring a restaurant or catering company to deliver the food to your venue, and you can arrange for additional services, such as staff to serve the food or clean up afterwards. Drop-off catering can be more affordable, starting at around $50 per person, but it requires careful planning and coordination. You will need to ensure proper storage, temperature control, and timely delivery to maintain food quality and safety. Additionally, you may need to designate friends or family members to help with serving and other tasks, taking them away from fully enjoying the celebration.
When deciding between self-catering, full-service, or drop-off catering, consider your budget, the size of your guest list, the level of convenience desired, and the importance of sharing this experience with your loved ones. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, so choose the one that aligns best with your priorities and vision for your special day.
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Dinner time: when to serve based on the wedding timeline
Dinner time at a wedding is a highly variable aspect of the celebration, depending on several factors. Firstly, the type of food service you opt for will influence the timing of dinner. For example, a plated salad course for 150 guests will take around five minutes to serve, while entrees will take about seven minutes. A typical dinner service for 150 individuals will be around an hour and a half. In contrast, a buffet meal will likely be faster, as guests can collect their food simultaneously.
Secondly, the size of your guest list will impact the timing. The larger the number of guests, the longer it will take to serve and for them to finish their meals. It is also essential to consider the age range of your guests. For example, an 8:30 pm start time may not be ideal if you have elderly guests or young children attending.
Thirdly, the timing of your ceremony will influence when dinner is served. For instance, if your ceremony starts at 5:30 pm, you could have cocktails from 6:15 pm to 7:15 pm, followed by dinner. If your ceremony is at 6 pm, you may serve dinner at 7 pm, 8 pm, or even 9 pm. It is generally expected that a full meal will be served at this time, but if your ceremony starts at 8 pm or later, you could get away with just serving appetizers.
Finally, the style of your wedding and personal preferences will play a role in determining the dinner timing. For example, if you want to include a cake-cutting ceremony, you may choose to do this following introductions, so guests can admire the cake as they arrive for the reception. Alternatively, you may opt for a less traditional reception meal, such as heavy hors d'oeuvres or a brunch with a Bloody Mary bar.
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Guest expectations: managing guest assumptions about food
Evening wedding guests will often assume that dinner will be served, and it is typical for food to be provided at this time of day. However, it is not obligatory to serve a full meal at your wedding reception. It is important to manage your guests' expectations about food to ensure they are satisfied and happy.
If you are not planning to serve a full meal, there are a few alternatives to consider. One option is to serve heavy hors d'oeuvres, such as protein-based items like shrimp cocktail, steak kebabs, or tuna tartar. If you prefer a more casual option, you can choose items such as chicken wings, sliders, or mini tacos. It is important to ensure that these options will satisfy your guests and provide adequate sustenance, especially if alcohol is being served. Another alternative is to host a brunch or lunch reception, which can be a fun and memorable option and may also save costs.
The timing of your wedding events can help manage guest expectations about food. For example, if your ceremony starts at 8:30 pm, it may be clear to guests that dinner will not be served. You can also explicitly state what will be served on your reception card or invites, such as "Join us after the ceremony for cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and dancing." Including this information on your wedding website can also help communicate your plans to guests.
It is worth noting that the type of food service you choose, whether plated or buffet, will impact the timing of your wedding events. Additionally, the number of guests and the time it takes them to eat will affect the overall timeline. To keep your guests happy and the party moving, it is important to consider the pacing of food service. For example, guests may feel rushed if half of a table is cleared and served while others are still eating.
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Alternatives: options besides a traditional reception dinner
While a traditional dinner is often served at weddings, there are many alternatives to this option. Here are some ideas for options besides a traditional reception dinner:
Brunch with a twist: Offer a unique brunch experience with a Bloody Mary bar, an on-site barista, an omelette station, and flaky pastries. This option can be a fun and memorable way to treat your guests, and it often saves money as guests tend to eat and drink less during the day.
Heavy hors d'oeuvres: Instead of a full meal, you can serve a variety of protein-based heavy hors d'oeuvres, such as shrimp cocktail, steak kebabs, tuna tartar, chicken wings, sliders, or mini tacos. Ensure there is enough substance to satisfy your guests, especially if you are serving alcohol.
Lighter lunch: Opt for a lighter lunch option paired with a fruity Bellini. Like brunch, a daytime reception with a lighter meal can save costs as guests tend to eat and drink less.
Buffet-style meal: If you still want to offer a full meal but want to break away from the traditional reception dinner, consider a buffet-style meal. This option can add a fun and interactive element to your reception and may be more cost-effective than a plated dinner.
Catering your own wedding: For a truly unique and memorable experience, consider catering your own wedding. This option can be rewarding, but it is important to plan and budget accordingly to ensure it is not too much work and does not end up costing more.
Remember, the most important thing is to keep your guests happy and well-fed, regardless of the type of food you choose to serve. Be sure to clearly communicate the meal arrangements to your guests, especially if you are opting for an alternative to the traditional reception dinner.
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Alcohol: serving food with an open bar
When it comes to serving food with an open bar at your wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your guests. Here are some instructive tips to help you plan and execute the perfect evening wedding with food and an open bar:
Timing is Everything
It is important to consider the timing of the food service in relation to the bar opening times. If you plan to serve dinner, it is typical for the entree course to be served around 8 pm, sometimes even 9 pm. This allows guests to enjoy cocktails and appetizers beforehand. A cocktail hour can be a great way to keep your guests entertained and well-fed while they wait for dinner.
Choose the Right Food
The food you choose to serve can have a significant impact on the overall flow of the evening. Consider options that are easy to eat and won't create a messy or uncomfortable experience for your guests. Finger foods, such as mini grilled cheese sandwiches, pretzels, or bao buns, are excellent choices. You can even set up food bars, such as a charcuterie board or a build-your-own burger bar, to give your guests variety and the ability to customise their meal.
Keep a Steady Pace
No one wants their wedding to feel rushed or have awkward gaps between events. Space out the plated courses based on how long it takes guests to eat. Generally, a typical dinner service for 150 individuals will be around an hour and a half. If you opt for a buffet-style meal, be prepared for a slightly longer service time.
Vendors Need to Eat Too
Don't forget about your vendors! They are also part of your special day. Provide them with a timeline and meals so they can be energised and ready for any toasts or special moments that may occur throughout the evening. It is considerate to serve them while you and your guests are eating, and it ensures they are available when needed.
Cake Cutting Ceremony
The wedding cake is a central part of the reception, and it's best not to leave it out for too long. Cut the cake following introductions or early in the evening so that guests can admire it and perhaps even take photos. This will also help you manage expectations regarding dessert.
Manage Guest Expectations
Evening weddings that occur during dinner time typically come with the expectation of a full meal. It is essential to communicate this clearly to your guests, either through your invitations or by ensuring there is enough food to satisfy everyone. If you opt for only appetizers, consider starting your ceremony later, so guests know to eat beforehand.
Alcohol and Food Pairing
When serving alcohol with food, consider offering options that complement each other. For example, if you're having a summer wedding, a refreshing cocktail paired with chilled gazpacho or miniature ice cream cones could be a delightful combination. Alternatively, a heartier meal, such as comfort food or a raw bar, might be better suited to a winter wedding, with warmer cocktails or a selection of wines.
Planning food and an open bar for your evening wedding can be a fun and creative process. Keep in mind the overall guest experience, from the timing of the food service to the ease of eating, and don't forget to manage expectations clearly. With these tips, your wedding is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable celebration for everyone!
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Frequently asked questions
The timing of your wedding food will depend on a few factors, such as the type of food service, the number of guests, and how long it takes your guests to eat. Typically, the entree course doesn't come out until around 8 pm, sometimes even 9 pm. If your ceremony starts at 6 pm, you can expect to serve food around 7:30 pm-8 pm.
No, you don't have to serve a full meal, but it is customary to serve your guests something to eat. You can serve heavy hors d'oeuvres like shrimp cocktail, steak kebabs, or chicken wings. If you are serving alcohol, it is important to serve enough food so your guests don't get too drunk.
You can indicate this by adding a line at the bottom of your invitation, such as "Dinner and dancing to follow" or "Cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and dancing to follow."
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