The New York Institute of Art and Design offers online wedding planner courses and because we do, we like to provide free tips for wedding planners. Enjoy!
When planning the perfect menu for a wedding reception, it’s important to consider the time of day when selecting food options for your guests. Getting started, here’s a simple guide you can use to help you make appropriate choices:
| Time of Day | Type of Reception | Appropriate Food Options |
|---|---|---|
| Morning 10 a.m.–1 p.m. |
Champagne breakfast (sit-down or buffet) | Coffee, teas, sweet rolls, muffins, buns, croissants, crépes, quiche, berries, fruit with custard or fresh cream. |
| Midday Noon |
Brunch or lunch (sit-down or buffet) | Same as above, plus salads, pasta, cold poached salmon, chicken, turkey, light sorbet and sparkling wines. |
| Mid-afternoon 2 p.m.–5 p.m. |
Tea or buffet | Light buffet with champagne punch, teas and coffees, miniature sandwiches, assorted fruits and cheeses, pastries, nuts and mints. |
| Early Evening 4 p.m.–7 p.m. |
Cocktail party or food stations | Seafood and pasta, breads, carving stations, cheese, fruit, wine and champagne. |
| Evening 6 p.m.–on |
Traditional sit-down dinner | Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a 3 or 4 course dinner including soup or salad, poultry, fish, meat entrée with vegetables, and dessert. |
| Late Evening 8 p.m. |
Sit-down dinner or food station buffet | Hearty hors d’oeuvres or a light supper of fish or chicken, vegetables, and pasta. |
Want to learn more? The New York Institute of Art and Design offers online wedding planning courses that can teach you how to plan and execute the perfect wedding. Request your free course catalog today!
