Going Off Menu Couples look outside the box to create a unique and personal dining experience. By Amy Zimmerman
C
hicken, beef, or fi sh? How about sliders,
INSPIR ED BY LOCATION
barbecue, and tacos? Couples are serving
It could be the place you met, your first date, where you got
wedding reception menus that create a unique
engaged, or a combination of several significant locations that
experience for their guests with an emphasis on foods that are inspired by their relationship.
inspire your wedding menu. “We just had a couple that traveled to Hawaii a few
“Buck tradition. Forget about what you’re expected to
times. They were engaged in Hawaii, they are taking their
do and focus on what you want to do. A three-course meal
honeymoon to Hawaii. We talked with them about what
with passed appetizers is no longer the go-to menu for every
foods and meals they enjoy while they are visiting Hawaii
wedding. Couples are looking for ideas outside of the box
and we brought those types of items into their wedding
for their menu,” says Cassy Vires, Director of Culinary
menu,” says Kelly Spencer, Founder of The Social Affair.
Development for The Fifth Wheel Catering. Brad Bardon, Executive Chef for The Social Affair, agrees, “Their party should feel like their party instead of feeling like dinner is just checked off the to-do list.”
Spencer says meeting with couples and building a relationship with them helps the catering team create a menu that truly represents the couple. “We have a conversation with them and ask what they like, what are their favorite cuisines. Tell us about a meal that
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BRIDESTL.COM • FALL/WINTER 2022
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTOPHER MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY
FOOD BY: 612 NORTH
