Congratulations on your engagement! If you are in the beginning stages of your wedding planning, you are probably interested in having a tasting soon. A tasting can be a fun and memorable part of wedding planning when implemented correctly.

We have anticipated questions you might have about wedding tastings and answered them to help you maximize your time with your caterer. These tips should help you prepare for your upcoming tasting so you can have an enjoyable and stress-free experience— and so the rest of your wedding planning can follow suit!

What’s the point of a wedding tasting? Should I have one?

Yes, you should definitely have a tasting if you are planning on having a caterer at your wedding! A tasting can help you determine exactly what will be on your wedding menu so that your big day can be a little less stressful. The purpose is to not only finalize the menu and iron out any wrinkles with your potential caterer, but a wedding tasting also gives you the opportunity to share your ideas, any dietary needs, and customize all of your dishes to your preference.

When should I book my wedding tasting?

We recommend booking your tasting appointment early in the process. It’s ideal to attend a tasting 6-9 months before your wedding to make sure that the planning process goes as smoothly as possible.

Should I choose my entire menu before the tasting?

You don’t have to choose your entire menu before the tasting, but it is helpful to have your menu somewhat determined. A tasting will help you choose between options A and B, and if you’re trying a ton of dishes, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Plus, there’s a chance you might fall in love with everything and blow your budget. In order to have a successful tasting, you will want to have a rough idea of the wedding theme with your general concept and choices mostly finalized.

How should I handle dietary restrictions?

When working with a caterer, it’s crucial to inform them ahead of time about your dietary restrictions. This will give them the opportunity to plan and make necessary accommodations for you. Most caterers are experienced in dealing with various dietary needs, and they will appreciate the heads up to ensure a smooth dining experience for everyone. If there are specific dishes on the menu that you absolutely love but need modifications, don’t hesitate to ask! Many chefs are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions or make adjustments to dishes to suit your needs.

How do I prepare for my wedding tasting?

Come hungry, ready to eat, and ready to give honest feedback. It’s that simple!

What should I expect at a wedding tasting?

During the tasting, the caterer will present each dish to you, providing a detailed introduction and explanation of the ingredients used. This is an excellent opportunity for you to savor the flavors, evaluate the presentation, and decide if there is anything you would like to change. If there is something about the dish that you don’t love, make sure to speak up! It’s your day, and the caterer is there to adhere to your preferences.

Are wedding tastings free?

Depending on the caterer, your first tasting is usually complimentary. However, because they are quite labor-intensive, an additional tasting will likely come with a hefty fee. This is why it’s best to come prepared and ask many questions at your first tasting to ensure that you don’t need to attend a second one. It’s also recommended to tip your caterer as you would a server since they work hard to provide an excellent culinary experience for you. This custom still applies even if the tasting is complimentary.

Who goes to a wedding tasting?

You will want to avoid having too many cooks in the kitchen (pun intended). Too many people = too many opinions. Remember, the wedding is ultimately about you and your fiance, so you should come prepared to choose the options that will make YOU happy. With that being said, most people should bring their partner and their wedding planner. If you really want another opinion, you can bring one or two trusted friends or family members. But remember— you can always ask loved ones for their input later if you need help deciding!

Don’t forget to make the most of it.

A tasting is an important step in the wedding planning process that allows you to finalize your menu and ensure your caterer can deliver the best culinary experience possible on your big day. By following these tips, your wedding tasting can be an enjoyable and successful part of your planning journey. Tastings are fun, so be excited— and, of course, bring your appetite!

Photos by Sabrina Englehart.