Your Cheshire and Merseyside Wedding - November/December 2022 (Issue 66)

Love at FIRST BITE Wedding catering ideas to suit your vibe So much of the atmosphere you create for your big day comes from the catering. If you dream of a traditional, elegant and grand affair, then a seated wedding breakfast with three courses (or more) will send you well on your way to setting the right tone. On the other hand, if a relaxed and informal celebration is on the cards, you’ll be looking for something flexible and free-flowing. But when all’s said and done, as long as you ensure loved ones have plenty to indulge in they’ll be well-fuelled with a spring in their step by the time they’re ready to hit the dancefloor. Whatever your vision, we have some food for thought... Don’t know where to start? Ashley Whittington-Orford, events manager at Chester-based Elite Bistro Events has a few pointers... What will guests have eaten already that day? Did they skip breakfast and lunch? Are you serving canapés? What time of day will it be when they sit down? Weddings can be a long day so make sure guests are suitably sustained. If this will be their first meal of the day, you might want to go for something a bit more robust. Alternatively, if they’ve been snacking for most of the day already, something lighter that won’t overwhelm or go to waste might be a good option. Three courses can be a lot to manage after endless canapés and a few glasses of fizz! Dietary requirements It’s never good to feel like an afterthought, so try to incorporate some vegetarian or gluten-free options into your menu naturally, perhaps with the starter or dessert. There are some wonderful gluten-free and vegan desserts that are sure to be crowd-pleasers and impress your guests who are plant-based or have intolerances. Think about how your menu will come together with the other elements of your day The plates, the cutlery and centrepieces can all help to bring your theme together and set the tone. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, then sharing platters served on rustic boards will bring a general air of conviviality. Or if you’re wanting a more traditional affair, you’ll be reaching for the white, pressed table cloths and bringing in traditional elements like a bread course of amuse-bouche. Think about how the menu can complement the mood you’re trying to create and make sure everything is working together in unison. ABOUT ELITE BISTRO EVENTS Since opening neighbourhood bistro Sticky Walnut in Chester, back in 2011, Elite Bistros has gone from strength to strength and now encompasses six bistros throughout the North West. At these eateries the team make everyone who walks through their doors feel special by doing what they do best: fancy food in a relaxed environment with a warm welcome. Having received many an enquiry about helping folk with large events and parties over the years, they decided to expand further to meet this demand and Elite Bistro Events was born. At Elite Bristro Events there’s a dedicated events manager, a development kitchen and an experienced team ready to deliver signature Elite Bistros food and service at your wedding. The team have developed special events menus and have taken their Bistro favourites, such as braised featherblade of beef to pop-up tents and venues across the UK. They’ll work with you to create each menu bespoke, filled with the things you and your guests will love. events@elitebistros.com | www.elitebistros.com/events Images courtesy of Elite Bistro Events © Dan Burns, https://naturalselectiondesign.co.uk CATERING 67

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