Planning a wedding is both a daunting undertaking and an exciting creative project. In fact, most couples book their reception venue soon after their engagement — often a year to nine months before the wedding itself.
But what if you need to plan for food sensitivities too? How will that affect the wedding planning process?
The truth is that food sensitivities will affect your wedding planning process. Fortunately, we’ve come up with a few great tips to help you plan for food sensitivities without sacrificing any part of this joyful experience for you and your guests. Let’s get started!
Consider dietary limitations when drafting your guest list.
When you’re drafting your wedding guest list, make note of anyone you know has a dietary restriction or food sensitivity. Even if you’re not sure what that food sensitivity is, making note that some of your guests do, in fact, have food sensitivities is incredibly important. Some common food allergies you might run into include nuts, shellfish, eggs, dairy, gluten, and soy.
Ask about food sensitivities on your RSVP cards.
You may have an idea of someone’s food allergies or dietary restrictions, but you won’t know the specifics until you ask for them. To save you and your guests time and money, it’s a good idea to include this question on your RSVP cards. That way you’ll know without a doubt what your guests can and can’t eat at your wedding. It’s a thoughtful, convenient way to check this item off of your wedding planning list.
Bring all food sensitivity information to your caterer.
Considering 65% of consumers purchased specialty food in 2017, it’s a safe bet to say you’re planning on something special for your wedding. Fortunately, caterers understand how to craft a menu around food sensitivities so everyone can enjoy appetizers, entrees, and desserts on your big day. The information from your RSVP cards is going to be crucial for your caterer here! If it’s important to prevent cross-contamination in your wedding meal, your caterer can help you plan that.
Label your buffet stations.
If you’re planning on a buffet-style wedding, make sure your buffet dishes are all labeled with the appropriate information. For example, if one of your entree selections isn’t dairy-free, make sure to note that on your labels. This can provide important information for guests with dietary restrictions and allow you some peace of mind knowing that all of your guests can enjoy their meals.
Don’t leave dessert out of your food sensitivity planning.
Dessert is often one of the most exciting parts of a wedding reception. What if some of your guests can’t partake due to a gluten or dairy allergy? Investing in some dessert options for your guests with specific food allergies can make a world of difference.
Planning a wedding might not be as easy as getting your teeth cleaned twice a year, but the end result will leave you smiling for years to come. Whether you’re one of the 3% of women who want engagements and other big events to happen in front of a large crowd or not, your loved ones matter! Your guests are a key part of your big day — making sure they feel included and cared for can help you make incredible memories for everyone.
Great article! You really helped a lot in providing tips especially dealing with wedding guests who have food sensitivities. I’m currently helping out an amazing couple with their wedding plans and this post is just in time to save me. Thank you for sharing.