It is completely understandable that there are tons of things to worry about when planning a wedding. But don’t forget about the food! Blow your guests’ minds away with a fantastic reception dinner that will leave a lasting impression.

Don’t fret, if you don’t know where to start. Here’s an article that will cover the essentials on wedding planning and halal wedding catering services in Singapore.

Find a Caterer and Suitable Venue Around The Same Time 

Search for a caterer around the same time when you’re looking for venues (about 12 months before your wedding date). It is advisable to make these two decisions together as many venues have their own catering vendors and may require you to use them.

Be sure to check with the venue beforehand if they have a preferred list of vendors or if you are allowed to bring in an outside caterer.

Review the menu options with the caterer, especially if you have particular dishes in mind as they might be difficult to execute, depending on the kitchen space or equipment.

Consider The Dining Experience  

• Sit-down Dinner

If you want the meal to be the focus of the night, a sit-down dinner with multiple courses might be the most suitable option.

This is the most traditional style of dinner for couples who want an elegant and neat wedding reception. A seated dinner gives more time for your guests to mingle and with the exact number of guests in mind, you can determine your budget and quantity of food you will need to prepare, and have lesser food waste.

However, you will need to spend more time paying close attention to the table setting and plan the stationery you might need. You will also need to plan an appropriate seating chart so that there will be no potential squabbles at any of the tables.

• Buffet and Standing Party

If music is the main point, then a less formal dining style and menu such as appetisers or finger foods might be a better option for guests before they hit the dance floor.

Buffets let you mix and match more varying dishes, ensuring enough quantity and variety. Unlike sit-down dinners with packaged menus, you have more flexibility in deciding every dish.

This style also creates more space for a larger number of guests and more food stalls in the same venue. The party will feel livelier as guests can mingle and go looking around for different food.

• Casual Dining

As it is more informal, you can decide to have a potluck gathering and assign entrees and desserts to your guests to ensure there is a sufficient variety for everyone. 

Introduce a New Menu  

You get to choose every dish you’ll serve at your wedding reception so you can make use of the opportunity to make an impression with a menu that includes unexpected twists to classic dishes. You can brainstorm for some ideas and bring them up with your caterer to see if it’s feasible.

You can also experiment with different serving styles and offer your guests different ways to enjoy their meal. 

Check for Dietary Restrictions  

It appears obvious but ensures that the caterer is certified for halal catering in Singapore and is able to provide a large variety of cuisine for your guests.

For caterers that are more experienced, they can cater a wider selection of choices, and ensure that every guest will be able to find something that they can enjoy.

Tie in a Theme  

Picking a theme will help you ensure that the dishes you choose will compliment each other and set the tone for the entire evening.

Pay tribute to your heritage with ethnic choices like traditional Malay food or Peranakan. Another idea is to add a personal touch by creating a menu filled with your childhood favourites or dishes that were previously served at your parents’ weddings, or dishes from memorable moments throughout your relationship.

You may bring up the themes you’re considering to prospective caterers and pick a chef who specialises in the type of cuisine you want. 

Entertain Your Guests  

The way your food is served can make a difference in creating a favourable impression among guests! Have a live station where chefs prepare the food in front of you and serve it to you fresh.

It gives guests a conversation starter and also piques their interest to witness how the food is being prepared.

Remember that it is ultimately your wedding and it’s up to you and your partner to make the best decisions for your special night.

As such, it is important to find a caterer which is understanding and willing to provide personalised services to ensure that you and your guests will have a night to remember.

How’s Catering has been a Halal-certified caterer since 2005 and are more than qualified to prepare amazing dishes that are appropriate for everyone to enjoy.

This includes a wide range of services including preparing catering menus for corporate events, weddings, festive occasions, buffets, high tea, and kids/thematic.

If you’re keen on finding out more about our menu or customisation options, feel free to contact us at +65 6852 2852 or email sales@howscatering.com.sg today