Planning a wedding menu is a massive undertaking for even the most experienced event planner. Selecting menu items that please all your guests can get hectic, especially if you have some who follow a vegetarian diet. Fortunately, catering your wedding will help minimize some of the stress. Here are some ways you can ensure the wedding catering suits all the guests on your big day.

How to Account for Vegetarians in Wedding Catering

1. Get a Headcount

Find out in advance how many guests will require vegetarian menu options. There are several types of vegetarian diets: some may choose to eat dairy, eggs, or fish, while vegans don’t eat any animal byproducts.

Include a card with your wedding invitation on which attendees can notate any restrictions or allergies they may have in their RSVPs. Once you know what types of food restrictions your guests have, you can plan a menu that will meet everyone’s needs.

2. Choose the Right Caterer

Once you have an idea of what your dream menu looks like, you can start contacting local catering services to find out their menu options, prices, and amenities. Choose a caterer who has experience with different vegetarian diets and food allergies. Rather than having to start from scratch, a caterer with established vegetarian dishes will make your menu planning easier.

3. Have a Variety of Options

Providing a variety of creative and delicious menu items for different dietary needs will ensure all your wedding guests are satisfied. Veggie and meat-eating guests alike will love dishes like vegetable tempura, eggplant Parmesan, namasu, and namul.

4. Minimize Cross-Contamination

Have a kitchen protocol in place to minimize the chances of any potential cross-contamination, especially if any of your guests are allergic to foods such as dairy, eggs, or fish.

If food is served buffet-style, clearly label all dishes. Separate dishes containing known allergens from those that are vegetarian. Allow those with allergies to go to the buffet first to minimize the chances of their food being contaminated through misplaced serving utensils.

If food is being served individually, place markers at vegetarian guests’ seats, and serve their courses at different times from non-vegetarian dishes to avoid any mix-ups.

If you're looking for a catering company for your wedding, turn to Marians Catering in Wahiawa, HI. They’ve served the island of Oahu for over 60 years. Their local and international dishes are available for catering or in boxed meals. Visit their website to view their menus, or call (808) 621-6758 to start planning your wedding today.