Engaged couples want their weddings to be three things: safe, eco-friendly, and considerate of their guests’ diets. Couples have been taking these ideas and coming up with creative ways to integrate them into their wedding. Some of these concepts will be popular for years to come. We have compiled a list of the top 2022 wedding trends so that you can consider implementing them into your wedding catering packages.
1. Sustainable Tablescapes
It’s no secret that weddings are expensive, and couples are always looking for ways to cut down on costs. These days, couples are looking for greener options. A great way to do this is by including sustainable tableware and decor in your wedding packages.
Tableware
Reusable tableware is the best way to cut costs because you won’t have to constantly purchase wasteful, disposable items. Replace paper napkins with cloth napkins, foam plates with ceramic bowls, and plastic straws with stainless steel straws. They require more cleanup, but the money you save and the environmental benefits will be well worth it.
If you have clients that prefer disposable products, you can offer them compostable and biodegradable tableware. These products are made from materials such as bioplastic and sugarcane that can break down in the right environment and reduce pollution. Before purchasing compostable forks or knives, be sure there are composting facilities in your area.
On the other hand, if you cannot invest in reusable or biodegradable tableware at this time, consider sturdy, plastic tableware. Yes, they are disposable and can harm the earth if not recycled, but sturdy plastic can last you two to three uses. Simply wash them when the reception’s over, and don’t forget to recycle after they can no longer be used.
Decor
When it comes to floral decorations, brides prefer to buy organic, farm-fresh bouquets because most cut flowers are grown outside the U.S. Many foreign flower companies are known to use harmful pesticides and have questionable labor practices. Using locally grown flowers allows couples to show their support for local businesses and the environment. Some couples even use flowers and branches from their own gardens to create elaborate table decor.
Reusing decor or upcycling items is also growing in popularity. For example, instead of buying expensive vases, couples are doing things like decorating wine bottles and using them instead. So, think twice before throwing away your waste, and get creative with your selection of wedding decor!
2. Food Trucks
Couples that want to give their guests a unique experience are now hiring food trucks to cater their weddings. Food trucks typically serve one-of-a-kind dishes which means they can give guests a chance to taste something new. They’re a great option if a venue does not have a kitchen or if the reception takes place in an outdoor area. Food trucks are also practical for social distancing and reducing contact surfaces at receptions.
3. Cakes
Due to social distancing, couples are throwing smaller, more intimate weddings to avoid spreading the coronavirus. A shorter guest list means a smaller everything, including cakes or perhaps other alternatives.
Small Cakes, Big Flavor
With a smaller reception, couples have realized that they don’t need large, multi-tiered cakes to feed a whole ballroom of guests. Now they can save money and buy small but charming cakes that only have one or two tiers. A small cake also allows couples to have a cake cutting moment and not skip the tradition.
Just because a cake is small doesn’t mean it can’t leave a big impression. Couples are making up for the size by choosing unique and meaningful flavors. For example, they might pick a key lime cake because it’s what they had for dessert on their first date or it’s their favorite flavor. It can also be a combination of unique flavors to simply impress guests.
Cake Alternatives
Other wedding dessert trends on the rise are alternatives to cakes such as macarons, doughnuts, cupcakes, and croquembouches. Having a cake on display can be unsanitary, but alternatives like the ones previously mentioned can be prepackaged and individually served. This is also more convenient for guests because they are able to take their desserts home.
4. Eco-Friendly Foods
In the last few years, restaurants and people have been switching to more healthy and eco-friendly foods. Restaurants that serve locally sourced, and zero-waste food are becoming more popular and allow patrons to taste fresh ingredients. Couples are also catering to individuals who have adopted healthier diets such as veganism and vegetarianism. Including food items in your catering menu that are inclusive to all diets allows you to attract more clients and ensures all wedding guests have something to enjoy.
5. Dry Bars
A few years before the COVID-19 lockdown, the health-conscious movement was on the rise. It gained lots of momentum due to the majority of people staying at home. You might think the lockdown would have increased sales of alcoholic beverages, and it initially did. However, as time went on, many people became concerned about weight gain, which led them to become more health-conscious and reduce alcohol intake or quit drinking altogether.
Including a dry bar at reception gives teetotalers more beverage options, but it also helps women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Plus, your beverage options don’t only have to consist of fruit juices or soft drinks. Take advantage of this opportunity to serve mocktails. Guests will love the taste of unique, flavorful concoctions they’ve never tried before.
Do What’s Best For Your Clients
When it comes to including trends in a wedding, remember that you don’t have to follow them to a T. Keep your budget and other limitations in mind so you don’t stress over them. You can still cater a trendy wedding as long as you can make it eco-friendly, safe, and fulfill the bride and groom’s requests.
