LOVE AT FIRST BITE

FOOD glorious FOOD

The ultimate A to Z guide to wedding catering

Finding the perfect catering company is essential to creating wow factor weddings. Food brings people together and it’s something your loved ones will remember long after the special day. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide from sweet treats, traditional delights and alternative options – thank us later!

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IS FOR AFTERNOON TEA

IS FOR BARBECUE Sure to please, a barbecue is the ideal fit for a summer wedding. It’s simple to cater for all tastes and dietary needs, plus the theatre of the food cooking amongst you creates a wonderful atmosphere. IS FOR DOUGHNUTS There’s a reason doughnut walls have been so popular over the last few years. The wall not only looks great but will be a hit with adults and kids alike. B D C Serving up an afternoon tea after the ceremony is the perfect addition to weddings. There’s something for everyone from sandwiches, scones, cakes and other sweet treats.

IS FOR COMMUNITY

IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT Combine catering and entertainment for the ultimate wow factor wedding. Molecular Magic Creative Catering Ltd is a family-run business that started trading in 2015. The team works hard to create bespoke packages for weddings; they can offer a traditional service or a more theatrical style for memorable experiences. Using the finest and locally sourced produce from the team’s tried and tested local suppliers, the multi-awardwinning company offers exceptional quality food that’s expertly prepared. All members are highly trained, professional with a friendly approach and love bringing the magic to events.

Check out: https://molecularmagic.co.uk F IS FOR FAVOURS With many options available for favours, we’ve found that some of the most popular options incorporate treats. Why not opt for personalised sweets, biscuits, chocolate or perhaps mini bottles of your favourite tipple.

IS FOR GRAZING One trend that has kicked off over the last year is grazing platters. Based in the heart of Southampton, Gilberts is a bespoke catering company that provides quality catering for special occasions. The team specialises in bespoke grazing tables and afternoon teas that will wow guests. With more than 12 years’ experience working in prestigious hotels, Gilberts is based on quality produce and sourcing the best ingredients to create delicious feasts tailored to suit your requirements. Check out: www.gilbertsfood.co.uk Why not book a company that gives back to the community? Munch is a family firm with five decades of experience running events. The company uses 100 per cent of profits to fund workshops to teach kids how to cook. The team specialises in building a food offering around your day. They’ve made E classical fine dining wedding breakfasts with three courses, amuse-bouche and burritos served from a van. The team will always be transparent about their costs and will work hard to ensure your wedding is extra special. Check out: www.munchcic.co.uk www.adamlynk.com G IS FOR HOT CHOCOLATE H Why not warm up your guests with a hot chocolate station for those colder months? Take it to the next level with marshmallows, chocolate flakes, whipped cream and different flavoured syrups.

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Add an element of fun to your wedding with a sweet cart, which is perfect for those with a sweet tooth and will provide snacks throughout the reception! The station is perfect, especially if you have little ones on the day. I

Van, bike or trike: ice cream can be served at your wedding in a variety of quirky ways and will be most welcome on a hot day.

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IS FOR KNOWLEDGE

When it comes to picking the right suppliers for your day, it’s important to do your research once you’ve settled on a budget. Search for local companies while viewing both their website and social media pages, where you will be able to read reviews from newlyweds. Once you have narrowed down your search, contact the companies to arrange a phone call or in person meetings where you can discuss options for your day and any concerns. L

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IS FOR LATE

The wedding breakfast can end up being served quite late in the day by the time you’ve said “I do,” and popped off for your photographs. To prevent your loved ones flagging, ensure there are plenty of delicious canapés on hand for the drinks reception. A selection of five to six is a good guide and we love the idea of mini fish ‘n’ chip cones or warming bitesize pies for the winter.

IS FOR MOBILE BAR

The choices at weddings are practically endless, with more fun and fab ideas always cropping up. We love bars that serve speciality tipples for your post-vow reception. The Saddle Stop offers different packages to suit every couple as the team can offer a traditional bar or an alternative option like a gin or prosecco bar. Not only do the team offer services for weddings, but hen parties, afternoon teas and other special events in Dorset too!

Check out: www.instagram.com/the_saddle_stop_weymouth

IS FOR NO WASTAGE Food wastage at weddings is a huge issue, check if your venue is signed up to a scheme such as Too Good To Go (https://toogoodtogo.org) that connects its app users to businesses that have surplus food, allowing it to be enjoyed rather than wasted. If not, you could consider donating any leftovers to the local food bank.

IS FOR ORIGIN Some venues grow their own herbs and vegetables and many caterers will support local farmers by using their produce. Serving locally-sourced food at your wedding not only adds to the ambience, but also supports the community, ensures quality and offers sustainability by reducing the miles it’s had to travel. IS FOR PIZZA IS FOR QUICHE Adults and children alike will love Not everyone likes the same food and if you’re watching their food being prepared worried about guests disliking the menu options, why right before their eyes. A pizza truck is not opt for a modern buffet to allow everyone to pick a perfect addition to evening receptions their favourite dishes? Think street food stations, tapas, and stops guests from going hungry. sausage sarnies and mini sliders. Plus, who doesn’t love pizza?

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IS FOR RAISE A GLASS Ensure guests have a glass in hand to toast your nuptials. Try some local flavour by checking out your local vineyard, and who doesn’t love a pimp your prosecco station?

RIS FOR SEASONAL If you’re stuck for what to serve, tailoring your menu according to the season is always a lovely way to go. Think fresh flavours in the summer or warming comfort food for the winter. You could even offer Christmas pudding for dessert with gingerbread favours at your festive nuptials. IS FOR TRADITIONAL There’s a reason the classic three-course dining experience has been popular for decades, it not only sets an elegant feel but allows guests to mingle as they’re served all sorts of dishes and keeps everything on schedule. S T

www.instagram.com/robvoo IS FOR UNDERNEATH THE ARCHES

Whatever food option you go for, make it beautiful! Ceremony arches can be moved and utilised in your reception space – they provide a stylish backdrop for any food, dessert or cake table for example.

IS FOR VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN

The days of bland and uninspiring vegetarian and vegan food are long gone, thanks to fantastic companies like Vegan Magda. The team offers bespoke menus designed especially for your big day. From abundant sharing-style tables and canapés at drinks receptions to elegantly plated dishes, owner Magda Zuber can provide a style of food that will match your venue and personality. Creative and beautifully prepared vegetables will steal the hearts of your guests, and no one will realise that there was no meat at the tables. Book a free tasting session and experience food with genuine soul and heart, cooked by real hands with love.

Check out: https://veganmagda.com IS FOR WORLD CUISINE

Spice up your life with an exciting international menu. If you love overseas travel and want the all-important meal to reflect this, talk to your caterer about serving your favourite world cuisine. Your wedding will be the talk of the town!

IS X MARKS THE SPOT

Don’t forget to incorporate catering options into your RSVPs. Your caterer will need to know of any food intolerances or dietary requirements ahead of time when tailoring your menu.

IS YORKSHIRE PUDDING The idea of a wedding carvery fills us with joy! Everyone will be delighted by a roast dinner and you also have that added element of interaction and entertainment as designated guests carve at the table in chef’s hat and pinny. Y Z

IS FOR ZOOM

It’s important to meet with your wedding caterer ahead of time and work together to plan the perfect feast. Face-to-face meetings are great but if distance is an issue, most will offer a virtual catch up, so there’s no excuse!