Wedding Tips & Advice

Top 5 Reception Menu Trends from Mindy Weiss

Here are five wedding reception predictions that I share with my celebrity clients:

People are eating! With fad diets out, guests are becoming more adventurous. While it is a good idea to offer traditional options, work in something a bit more unexpected such as lamb or veal.
Small is big. Miniature versions of classic foods continue to grow in popularity. Examples include serving mini chicken pot pies, petite salads, or bite-size grilled cheese sandwiches with rich tomato soup in demitasse cups.
Comfort - it's all relative. While comfort food is still popular, choose dishes that reflect your own versions of comfort, based on ethnic backgrounds, fond memories or favorite treats. Guests close to you will appreciate a personalized menu.
Say cheese. Diners are starting to appreciate the variety of artisanal cheeses produced in America, so artful cheese plates featuring local producers are a great way to personalize receptions. Another option is to include a formal cheese course with the meal.
Wine and classic cocktails are back. No more struggling with a cutesy name for a signature colored fruity beverage! But make sure to choose wines that are fruit-forward, such as those from Mirassou Winery. This style tends to be more food-friendly and appeals to a wide array of palates.
While I have to make sure everything I select for my high-profile clients is on the cutting edge, there are a few rules of planning that never go out of style. One such rule is to pay close attention to the menu planning. It is important to marry food and wine beautifully at wedding receptions, and not just go along with the standard suggestions. Make an experience out of the pairings by selecting dishes you truly love and serve a different wine with each course.

Expert Wedding Advice
From celebrity wedding planner Mindy Weiss.

Wedding Tip:
While menu planning, keep in mind complementing aromas, textures and dominant flavors with the wine - it is not just white wine with fish and red wine with meat. If the dish is light or creamy, consider white, if it is robust with mushrooms or other earthy flavors, go with red.

Regardless of whether you are serving just one white and one red or a selection of wines, schedule a tasting of the food with the wines in advance to ensure an experience sure to please everyone.