A Foodie’s Guide To Wedding Catering
Treat your guests to a meal that you feel proud to serve, says Payal Catering
The first test your wedding caterer needs to pass is simple: would you eat their food? If it doesn’t tantalise your tastebuds, you shouldn’t serve it to anyone else. That’s why choosing your wedding caterer shouldn’t be based on recommendations alone; you should attend tastings, explore different menus and make sure the food genuinely excites you. Payal Caterers agree. Headed up by DJ Fritz, who has worked in the Asian wedding industry for over 35 years, primarily on the entertainment side and now in food, he’s eaten at thousands of functions. This gives him a unique understanding of what makes Asian and Indian wedding feasts memorable. Most importantly, he knows first-hand why tasting the menu is so important. Here, he shares his advice on choosing what’s served on your Big Day.
Integrating food service into the order of the day
Your wedding schedule will influence when and what guests want to eat. At a daytime ceremony they may prefer lighter dishes and refreshing drinks, particularly if it’s warm, while an evening reception requires something more substantial and indulgent.
Think about the natural flow of the day. If there’s a long gap between the ceremony and reception, canapés or a grazing station can keep hunger at bay. When there are several events taking place across the day, consider each meal so guests aren’t served similar dishes. Your caterer should be able to advise on timings, portion sizes and the best way to stagger courses, ensuring everyone is well fed.
Presentation is powerful
We eat with our eyes first, so how your food looks is as important as how it tastes. Beautiful presentation instantly elevates a dining experience and can turn familiar dishes into something that feels extra special. Ask your caterer how they present their dishes and ideally, look at photographs for examples of their previous events.
There are plenty of ways to make food look more refined, from elegant serving platters and carefully arranged buffets to decorative garnishes and food stations.
Reflect both partners’ cultural traditions and favourites
Rather than choosing a menu based on what’s expected, consider the dishes that have personal significance to you and your families.
Perhaps there’s a regional specialty one of you grew up eating, a favourite family recipe or a dish that reminds you of home? You could create a menu that brings different traditions together, allowing both partners to see elements of their heritage represented.
Ensure everyone can tuck in
A memorable wedding feast should be one that everyone can enjoy. With your guests ranging from young children to grandparents, it’s important to consider their different tastes, appetites and dietary requirements. Make sure your caterer can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergy-friendly options.
Age matters too. Children may prefer familiar, less spicy dishes, while older guests might appreciate food that is easier to eat. An experienced caterer should be able to guide you on the best approach, helping you create a menu that’s varied, inclusive and delicious. When every guest can sit down, tuck in and enjoy the feast, it makes your celebration feel even more special.
Designing the perfect wedding menu
Your wedding meal should be flavoursome, with textures and layers that complement each other while satisfying your guest’s tastebuds. Get inspired by Payal’s recommended suggestions:
Canapés
• Chicken lollipops
• Mumbai fishcakes
• Mini idli with chutney
Chicken dishes
• Chicken dhaba
• Chicken makhani
Lamb dishes
• Lamb rogan josh
• Lamb achari
Fish dishes
• Goan fish curry
• King prawn masala
Vegetarian dishes
• Paneer
• Sweet potato and chickpea curry
Desserts
• Assorted cheesecakes
• Choice of chocolate treats
• Fruit tart and macarons
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