I must share with you that over the past twenty years, nothing seems to strike as much fear in the hearts and minds of couples as when the words–let’s make your menu selection are spoken. My enthusiasm is met with an eerie silence, and I have grown to expect the proverbial “deer in the headlight” reaction. Well, “dears”–relax, because with some guidance it can be FUN and simple!
The venue or caterer you choose will most likely have a “Wedding Package” put together that outlines menu suggestions and pricing estimates. The package basics typically include choices for your butler passed hors d’oeuvres, the dinner service or buffet options, along with information pertaining to the bar and beverage service through the event.
Mandarin Oriental, Miami’s wedding package is the collaborative effort of our Executive Chef, Sous Chef, Banquet Chef, Garde Manger, Pastry Chef and me to present our most successful, innovative and creative menu items. It includes selections that are specific to weddings and social events and includes a fusion of multi-cultures reflective of our Asian heritage and our home in Miami. Rest assured that by listing these items, any and all selections will be received exceedingly well by your guests. This simple premise should be consistent with all wedding packages, no matter the venue or caterer. How will you know? Don’t be afraid to ask your wedding specialist to share with you who has prepared the wedding package. Are the food selections indicative of the properties best received items? Are they serviceable for the size of your wedding? If you are pleased with the overall menu selections within the package, you are then ready to begin the process of decision making.
Selecting your menu:
Although most wedding packages will begin with hors d’oeuvres selections—resist the temptation! I recommend you place these options to the side momentarily and skip directly to your choices for the entrée. Once you have made your choice of entrée, the selections for hors d’oeuvres, your starter course, even your salad—can and should be influenced by the entrée choice, as you need to strike a balance in your overall menu.
Menu selection 101:
When selecting your menu, your personal preferences and who you are should absolutely be present and reflected. However, as the host of the soiree it is your responsibility to ensure your guests’ needs are met based upon the “majority rule.” Simply ask yourself, would my choices be well received (and edible) by the majority of my guests? The bottom line is that you might love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, but you simply cannot serve it as an entrée to 250 guests. Trust me, your guests won’t “get” it anyway. Instead, find a wonderfully fun compromise which may come in the form of PB&Js being butler passed on the dance floor with shot glasses of milk—or served as an “early morning” station with the burgers and hot dogs your fiancé adores. Chic, fashionable and reasonable!
Without having to ponder the diets of each of your guests, we frequently see the creation of a duo entrée. Mandarin Oriental, Miami’s most popular duo is inspired by our Miami and Asian heritage. The presentation consists of Ginger Glazed Beef Tenderloin paired with Miso Marinated Black Cod. Aside from taste alone, the creative presentation appeals to the vast majority of guests.
Once you have chosen your entrée—then move backwards through the dinner service to identify an intermezzo or salad, appetizer and finally the hors d’oeuvres. Your catering specialist will be invaluable with foresight and knowledge on what works best, and assist in keeping your menu balanced. Along the way, there are wonderful opportunities to infuse your personalities into the selections and presentations that will undoubtedly lead to moments of delight.
Happy choosing!
Keep reading–and remember, don’t be afraid to ask!
