What You Should Know About Food for Your Canadian Nuptials

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What You Should Know About Food for Your Canadian Nuptials

A somewhat common joke about weddings refers to choosing chicken or fish as one of the most crucial decisions for a couple to make. While the celebration is about two people declaring their intent to marry in front of witnesses, it would be silly to act as if food isn’t a big deal, especially at a reception. When you consider other events such as engagement celebrations, showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and even a post-wedding brunch, food matters. From the cake to party favors, here’s what you should know about wedding-day eats. 

Understanding Why Food Matters

A marriage ceremony is literally the joining of two families, and when it comes to symbols of family and friendship, a meal around a table is one of the most enduring. The post-ceremony celebration is an opportunity for loved ones to shower you and your new spouse with love. It’s also an event for those you hold dear to meet, greet, and eat! Your guests may be too polite to say so, but they care about the food. Nobody wants to eat bad food at a reception, and you don’t want something bland or unappetizing being one of the things people remember most about your special day.

Planning a Meal Style

While “chicken or fish” remains a big decision, the meal style may be as important. Will you have a more formal plated dinner where guests choose between chicken or fish (or steak) with vegan alternatives? Do you prefer something more laid back, such as food stations or a self-serve buffet? Perhaps you’ll extend the family motif of a reception meal by having family-style service with large platters and dishes to be passed around. Consider the level of formality for your affair, the guest list, and the venue. Some locations are better suited for certain meal styles.

Choosing a Caterer

While you’re contemplating a meal style, you’ll also need to choose a caterer, especially if the venue doesn’t include food service. When looking for a caterer, reputation is key. Ask friends for recommendations. Look for online reviews from previous customers. A wedding planner should be able to recommend caterers. Other vendors such as a photographer or a dressmaker may also have good suggestions. Here are some questions to ask a potential caterer:

  • How many guests can be accommodated?
  • What meal styles does the caterer provide?
  • Can you sample menu items for free or for a small fee?
  • Are servers included in the price?
  • How many meal options are available?
  • Is a deposit required?
  • Is there a separate price for alcohol?
  • Can special dietary requests be accommodated?

Finding a caterer who understands your vision is critical for a successful outcome.

Going Canadian On Food

When you’re tying the knot up in the Great White North, you may think about choosing menu items that are distinctly Canadian:

  • Montreal-style bagels: Smaller, thinner, and sweeter than their New York counterparts, these bagels are great for a wedding breakfast or a brunch the next day. Consider food stations with the usual fixings, such as cream cheese, lox, capers, and flavored spreads.
  • Poutine: This classic Canadian dish of fries, gravy, and cheese curds makes an excellent appetizer or snack at a reception.
  • Tourtiere: This French-Canadian meat pie is hearty and filling, ideal for a buffet or family-style dining. Pre-slice individual portions or serve personal pies for better service.
  • Cedar plank salmon: If you decide to go with fish, you can’t go wrong with a smoky salmon served on cedar planks.

It’s entirely up to you to choose a menu, but contemplate these and others for a Canadian touch.

When it comes to your nuptials, food considerations are an important part of the many decisions you’ll need to make. Whether you go with chicken or fish, think about meal styles, service, and catering options. Start off this new phase of life with friends, family, and great food!

What You Should Know About Food for Your Canadian Nuptials

A somewhat common joke about weddings refers to choosing chicken or fish as one of the most crucial decisions for a couple to make. While the celebration is about two people declaring their intent to marry in front of witnesses, it would be silly to act as if food isn’t a big deal, especially at a reception. When you consider other events such as engagement celebrations, showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and even a post-wedding brunch, food matters. From the cake to party favors, here’s what you should know about wedding-day eats. 

Understanding Why Food Matters

A marriage ceremony is literally the joining of two families, and when it comes to symbols of family and friendship, a meal around a table is one of the most enduring. The post-ceremony celebration is an opportunity for loved ones to shower you and your new spouse with love. It’s also an event for those you hold dear to meet, greet, and eat! Your guests may be too polite to say so, but they care about the food. Nobody wants to eat bad food at a reception, and you don’t want something bland or unappetizing being one of the things people remember most about your special day.

Planning a Meal Style

While “chicken or fish” remains a big decision, the meal style may be as important. Will you have a more formal plated dinner where guests choose between chicken or fish (or steak) with vegan alternatives? Do you prefer something more laid back, such as food stations or a self-serve buffet? Perhaps you’ll extend the family motif of a reception meal by having family-style service with large platters and dishes to be passed around. Consider the level of formality for your affair, the guest list, and the venue. Some locations are better suited for certain meal styles.

Choosing a Caterer

While you’re contemplating a meal style, you’ll also need to choose a caterer, especially if the venue doesn’t include food service. When looking for a caterer, reputation is key. Ask friends for recommendations. Look for online reviews from previous customers. A wedding planner should be able to recommend caterers. Other vendors such as a photographer or a dressmaker may also have good suggestions. Here are some questions to ask a potential caterer:

  • How many guests can be accommodated?
  • What meal styles does the caterer provide?
  • Can you sample menu items for free or for a small fee?
  • Are servers included in the price?
  • How many meal options are available?
  • Is a deposit required?
  • Is there a separate price for alcohol?
  • Can special dietary requests be accommodated?

Finding a caterer who understands your vision is critical for a successful outcome.

Going Canadian On Food

When you’re tying the knot up in the Great White North, you may think about choosing menu items that are distinctly Canadian:

  • Montreal-style bagels: Smaller, thinner, and sweeter than their New York counterparts, these bagels are great for a wedding breakfast or a brunch the next day. Consider food stations with the usual fixings, such as cream cheese, lox, capers, and flavored spreads.
  • Poutine: This classic Canadian dish of fries, gravy, and cheese curds makes an excellent appetizer or snack at a reception.
  • Tourtiere: This French-Canadian meat pie is hearty and filling, ideal for a buffet or family-style dining. Pre-slice individual portions or serve personal pies for better service.
  • Cedar plank salmon: If you decide to go with fish, you can’t go wrong with a smoky salmon served on cedar planks.

It’s entirely up to you to choose a menu, but contemplate these and others for a Canadian touch.

When it comes to your nuptials, food considerations are an important part of the many decisions you’ll need to make. Whether you go with chicken or fish, think about meal styles, service, and catering options. Start off this new phase of life with friends, family, and great food!

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