How to plan for dietary requirements when catering your wedding
No matter the size of your wedding (or other catered event for that matter) it is extremely likely that at least one guest will have a dietary requirement, food allergy or intolerance that you’ll need to consider. So whether you have a grazing table, buffet, canapés or a lavish sit-down meal planned for your big day - there are two important things to remember when catering to requirements:
1. provide food that meets these requirements, plus,
2. offer enough of this food to keep your guests full and able to celebrate through your wedding day.
When catering for dietary requirements, start with the wedding RSVP card
To begin with, one of the easiest ways to begin the process of wedding guest dietary requirements is to include an RSVP food allergies and dietary requirements area on your wedding response card. There are a variety of ways this can be achieved and make your guests feel catered for. We suggest either:
A line at the bottom of the RSVP card that reads something like “Please advise of guest dietary requirements”. This is the simplest option. However, this method can result in very vague responses from attendees that may be more of a dietary preference than requirement.
A section of checkboxes that guests can select from. Within the checkboxes include the most common options. Such as: gluten-free / vegetarian / lactose free / other. This layout provides a more restrictive design where guests can only select pre-determined requirements that you plan to cater for at your wedding. While the final ‘other’ checkbox allows guest to indicate if a serious requirement has not been listed.
Wedding guests appreciate their dietary requirements being considered
Accommodating for guest food allergies and dietary requirements can feel overwhelming. But it does not mean that you need to build your whole wedding menu around them. Having possible food options allows everyone to enjoy the day to the fullest. Once guests have RSVP’d with any requirements it is much easier to create a list that you will need to cater for and it will allow for easy finalisation of your wedding menu.
Just remember, your guests will be understanding in regards to their dietary requirements. Eating out is often a challenge for them with limited options a regular occurrence. As long as a substantial meal is provided that caters to their dietary needs, they will be appreciative and ready to enjoy the days festivities.
Select a wedding caterer who can meet guest dietary requirements
When choosing your venue and caterer, be mindful that they have the capacity to meet your guests needs. A great first question for any potential caterer is “What options can you offer for guests with food allergies, intolerances and dietary requirements?” This question opens up dialogue and can allow for flow-on discussion about the main guest offering.
At Fed by Jed we are proud to offer a range of finger food, main meal and grazing options that will meet the needs of your event guests. Consider a grazing table showcasing food that meets dietary requirements marked with identifying tags. Or canapés that feature handmade rice paper rolls (vegan, vegetarian and gluten free variations), mushroom arancini balls (vegetarian) and Thai fish cakes (gluten free). And then for sweets offer a varied dessert table featuring mini lemon meringues (vegan and gluten free) and choc fudge brownies (gluten free).
The options are endless when catering your wedding or event with Fed by Jed and we are always happy to work with you to create a unique menu for your needs. We love our region and catering events in our community. So if you are planning a wedding in Geelong, Lethbridge, Bannockburn, Meredith, or even Colac - let’s chat. Fed by Jed will customise a menu package designed just for you and your guests needs.