Menus! Yay or Nay, and how to make it work for your event
— the Menu —
Menus are something that I get asked about with every event I design for.
A lot of couples know ahead of time if they *definitely will* have menus, and they just have some questions about style, how many to print, etc. Oftentimes though, couples are unsure whether or not they should create menus, and it’s important to think about!
There are a Few different scenarios:
Plated Meal
The main question mark comes when guests have already selected their meals prior to the wedding. With a plated dinner, the RSVP will have gathered each guest’s meal choice, and that’s what they’ll be served. In theory, guests don’t need a menu because they’ve already chosen. But this isn’t necessarily the way to go. . .Let’s get creative!
Response cards are sent back at least a month before the big day (please), and although they already made their choice, guests likely won’t remember what was written on that card. In fact, you may or may not even have the details of the meal written on your RSVP, as most couples simplify the options to Beef / Chicken / Veg. There’s just something about the anticipation of chimichurri. . .
Providing your guests with a menu is absolutely what I would recommend. Not only does it get them excited about what they’re about to enjoy, but it gives you an opportunity to get fancy with your words and level up your wedding aesthetic.
I do have one word of caution with individual menus for a plated meal: You want to make sure that the wording reminds your guests that they’ve already selected their meal, and that this menu is purely informative. A simple “Selected on RSVP” can do the trick! Another option is to have one or two menus at the table for them to pass around.
*Oh! And Beware of great aunt mildred
She’s going to try and switch her order with the caterers, but don’t let that stress you out! Catering companies are prepared for this situation, and will have extras of each option.
Buffet Style
Although your meal might be more laid back, menus are a great idea for buffet style dinners. Guests will be able to think about what to select when their turn comes, making lines move quicker. It’s also an opportunity for you to give a description of each available item, and make the meal appear more high end! Without a menu, a little 3-worded sign in front of each entrée is the only explanation provided, and stylistically you’re likely relying on the caterer's handwriting. Opt in to the Menu Club! :)
for Kevin and Justin’s wedding, food was provided by food trucks. (SO FUN!) we created acrylic menus for each table that showed the food options provided by each restaurant, prepping guests for what to order when it was their turn! Adding a mini illustration made things feel lighthearted but custom, and tied in the creative vibe of the day.
Plated Meal with guests selecting
If your event is formal, or if guests are making their selections live at the reception, always always always opt for menus. Not only is it necessary, but including menu design in your wedding suite adds cohesion to the branding of your event.
Might I suggest a menu for your wedding reception? Hahaha, I didn’t realize how all in I was until I got my thoughts down here. It’s a good idea, I promise! And we can get pretty funky with them—Menus do not need to be stuffy or traditional. view past menus and other goods here.
a reminder:
Be sure to include a menu in the Wedding Stationery you provide to your photographer as well! It will create more of a narrative for your photos, and you’ll be able to look back on it in 30 years and say “what the heck does Artisanal Heirloom Potatoes mean?”
Cheers!