As you prepare to tie the knot with your beloved, you want every aspect of your wedding day to be perfect – and that includes the food! After all, what’s a wedding without delicious, mouth-watering cuisine? As you begin to plan your menu, you may be curious about the latest wedding catering trends this year.
Don’t fret, we have you covered! We’ve compiled a list of the most unique and trendy ideas to inspire your catering menu and set your wedding apart from the rest. Let’s explore what’s hot in the world of wedding catering this year. You’re sure to find something that will amaze your guests and make your special day even more unforgettable!
Top Wedding Catering Trends in 2023
This year, couples are all about making their wedding day more personal and unforgettable, and that includes the food. Innovative caterers are taking centre stage and bringing new and exciting ways to prepare and present delicious dishes. The following are some of the top wedding catering trends in 2023.
Sustainable Catering
As people become more environmentally conscious, sustainable catering has become a top trend in the wedding industry. Couples are looking for ways to minimise their impact on the environment while still providing a delicious and beautiful dining experience for their guests.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to incorporate eco-friendly practices into your wedding catering plans. For example, some caterers consider using locally sourced ingredients instead of purchasing produce flown in from halfway around the globe. This not only reduces the carbon footprint of your meal but also supports local farmers and businesses.
Another way to reduce your carbon emissions is by serving organic foods at your reception. You can avoid pesticides by buying fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms rather than those grown with harmful chemical fertilizers. Organic foods also taste better, so your guests will appreciate the fresh flavours and wholesome ingredients.
Plant-based and Vegan Menus
There has been a growing interest in plant-based and vegan diets, and this trend continues in 2023. More and more couples are opting for plant-based and vegan menus to accommodate their guests’ dietary preferences and restrictions
Some popular plant-based and vegan options for wedding menus include vegetable-based appetisers, entrees made with tofu, tempeh, or other plant-based proteins, and dairy-free desserts such as sorbets or fruit-based tarts. For example, you can offer plant-based and vegan alternatives to classic dishes, such as a vegan lasagna or plant-based burgers. You can also incorporate international cuisine, such as Indian or Middle Eastern-inspired dishes that naturally feature plant-based ingredients.
If you’re not ready to go fully plant-based or vegan, you can still incorporate these options into your menu. Consider offering a few plant-based or vegan food alongside traditional meat-based dishes to provide a variety of choices for your guests.
Interactive Food Stations
Food stations have long been a hit at cocktail parties and corporate events, but now they’re becoming increasingly popular at weddings too. These fun and trendy stations allow guests to customise their meals and add an element of fun to the dining experience.
One popular option is a make-your-own taco station, where guests can choose from a variety of fillings, salsas, and toppings to create their own perfect taco. Another option would be to serve a selection of different types of breads (such as baguettes, crostini, and flatbread) with various spreads and toppings. Guests could then assemble their own canapes and sandwiches based on the combination of ingredients that appeal to them most.
And let’s not forget about dessert! Interactive dessert stations are a sweet way to end your wedding reception. Set up a donut wall or dessert bar, where guests can choose from a variety of sweet treats and toppings. A build-your-own sundae station is always a hit, with guests piling on their favourite ice cream flavours and toppings.
Buffet-style catering
Buffet-style catering is a popular choice for couples looking to provide their guests with a variety of food options at their wedding reception. Couples can choose from a wide range of food options, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions. This ensures that all guests can find something they enjoy and can accommodate their dietary needs.
Another advantage of buffet catering is its flexibility. Unlike plated dinners, guests can choose when and how much they want to eat. This allows for a more relaxed atmosphere and can help reduce food waste as guests only take what they can eat. In some cases, buffet catering may actually be more expensive than plated dinners or other catering styles. However, couples can still choose to have a buffet if they prioritise variety and flexibility over cost.
Buffet catering also creates a more interactive dining experience for guests. Guests can interact while selecting their food, creating a more social and celebratory atmosphere. This can be particularly advantageous for larger weddings where guests may not have the opportunity to mingle much during the reception.
Sit-down catering service
Sit-down service continues to be a popular and timeless catering option for couples this year. This traditional option involves serving a multi-course meal to guests while they are seated at designated tables. This type of dining experience is often the most formal and sophisticated catering option, offering guests an opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal while being served by waitstaff.
One of the advantages of a sit-down wedding dinner is its formality and sophistication. It can create a refined atmosphere that is ideal for couples who want to create a more upscale dining experience for their guests. They do not have to leave their seats to get their food, which can create a more intimate and cohesive atmosphere.
Instagrammable Wedding Food
These days, it’s not just about the taste of the food – it’s also about the way it looks. Couples are looking for wedding catering that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. With the right design and presentation, your food can become a work of art that will get your guests snapping photos.
To create Instagrammable wedding food, caterers focus on presenting food in unique and visually stunning ways. This can include incorporating bold colours, creating playful designs and patterns, and using creative plating techniques. Vibrant fruit platters, mini-cakes, and bite-sized appetisers are just a few examples of options that you can try.
To take it a step further, consider incorporating eye-catching elements into your display, such as edible flowers and creative garnishes. These artistic touches will make your food stand out from the crowd and create a memorable experience for your guests.
Fusion Cuisine
Fusion cuisine has emerged as one of top wedding catering trends in 2023, as more couples seek to add an element of adventure and novelty to their special day. This innovative catering approach involves blending various culinary traditions and flavours to craft unique and enticing menu options that tantalise the taste buds. It also adds a sense of creativity and individuality to the menu.
For your wedding, you can consider infusing Italian pasta dishes with Asian-inspired sauces or spices. Alternatively, you could experiment with combining two distinct cuisines to create a truly memorable and delectable experience. For example, you can consider offering a Mexican-inspired lasagna that features spicy chorizo, chipotle peppers, and cotija cheese, or a sushi burrito that uses nori sheets instead of tortilla wraps.
Grazing tables
Grazing tables have become a trendy option for weddings and events in recent years. They are essentially large tables filled with an abundance of finger foods and snacks, ranging from cheeses, meats, fruits, and vegetables to bread, crackers, and dips. These are typically arranged in an artful and visually appealing way, making them a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
One of the biggest advantages is their interactive nature. They encourage guests to gather around and socialise while grazing on the various snacks and appetisers. This creates a relaxed and convivial atmosphere that is perfect for mingling.
Cocktail or mocktail bar
The bar is often the focal point of a wedding reception, where guests gather to interact, unwind, and raise a glass to celebrate the happy couple. Today, with the surge in craft cocktails and artisanal spirits, the bar has evolved into a place to showcase ingenuity and flair.
A tastefully designed cocktail or mocktail bar can enhance your reception, wowing your guests with vibrant beverages. The drink options are vast, ranging from classic cocktails such as martinis and margaritas to trendy mocktails such as fruit-infused spritzers and herbaceous mock-mojitos. You can tailor the bar to suit your wedding theme by integrating unique signs, lighting, or glassware.
When organising your wedding catering, consider hiring a professional bartender or mixologist to concoct personalised beverages that reflect your preferences. They can help you select the ideal cocktail or mocktail menu to complement your wedding theme and make a lasting impression on your guests. Using their skills and imagination, they can transform even the most basic ingredients into delightful, eye-catching drinks that your guests will savour.
Champagne Towers
One of classic and elegant wedding catering trends that has stood the test of time is the champagne tower. To create this, the champagne is poured into a pyramid of stacked glasses, which overflow from the top and cascade down into the glasses below. It’s a beautiful and dramatic sight that offers a touch of elegance and sophistication to any event, and makes for a stunning photo op.
Other Considerations
Hiring Professional Caterers
While it may be tempting to cut costs and ask a family member or friend to cater your wedding, it’s important to hire professional caterers who have the experience and expertise to handle your big day. Professional caterers have the resources and equipment to ensure that your food is delicious, fresh, and served at the right temperature. Don’t leave the success of your wedding catering to chance – hire professionals who can provide you with peace of mind and exceptional service.
Budget
Wedding catering can be a significant expense, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing your caterer. Be upfront with your caterer about your budget, and they can work with you to create a menu that fits within your price range without sacrificing quality.
Venue Restrictions
Your wedding venue may have specific restrictions on catering, such as the use of certain vendors or restrictions on open flames. Make sure to communicate these restrictions with your caterer to ensure that they can comply with them.
Seasonal Availability
Certain foods may be more expensive or less available depending on the season. Be sure to discuss seasonal availability with your caterer, and they can help you choose menu items that are in season and cost-effective.
Guest Count and RSVPs
Make sure to provide your caterer with an accurate guest count and any dietary restrictions or preferences. Additionally, keep your caterer updated on any changes to your guest count or RSVPs leading up to your wedding day, as this can affect the amount of food and staff needed.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, wedding catering trends continue to evolve and adapt to the changing times. However, one thing remains constant: the importance of creativity in planning and executing an unforgettable wedding. Couples are encouraged to embrace unique and personalised touches in their catering choices to reflect their individuality and create a memorable experience for their guests.
If you’re looking for a catering service that can deliver exceptional food and impeccable service in Melbourne, look no further than Crave Catering, a premier corporate and private event caterer. With a dedication to quality and innovation, they offer a wide range of menu options and customisable packages to suit any wedding style and budget.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Crave Catering’s team of experienced professionals will work closely with you to ensure that every detail is taken care of. From menu selection to presentation and service, they go above and beyond to exceed your expectations and deliver an exceptional culinary experience.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning the wedding of your dreams.