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How to Plan a Wedding Menu That Feels Like You

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Forget cookie-cutter menus, let’s make your menu something special.

Your wedding menu should be more than just a meal. It should be a reflection of you as a couple – your tastes, your story, and the way you love to eat. Whether you envision an elegant plated dinner, a relaxed shared feast, or a roaming cocktail-style affair, your menu should feel personal, effortless, and designed for celebration.

Here’s how to create a menu that actually feels like you.

Start with the way you love to eat

How do you and your partner love to dine? Do you enjoy long, lingering meals filled with conversation, or do you prefer a more relaxed, graze-as-you-go style?

  • If you love family-style dining, a shared feast creates a warm, abundant atmosphere.
  • Prefer a more traditional approach? Plated multi-course menus are elegant and refined.
  • Love to keep things casual? A cocktail-style menu with roaming canapés lets guests mingle and move.

There’s no wrong way to do this, only what feels right for you.

Make it personal

The most memorable wedding menus tell a story. Maybe it’s a dish from your first date, a nod to your heritage, or simply a flavour combination you both can’t get enough of.

  • Love a good late-night snack? Surprise your guests with sliders on the dance floor.
  • Obsessed with a particular cocktail? We can create a signature wedding drink just for you.
  • Want to honour your heritage? A dish inspired by your culture or travels adds a meaningful touch.

We love working with couples to infuse personality into the menu so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Keep it seasonal

Menus that highlight fresh, local ingredients always taste better. They also naturally fit the season, making your menu feel more connected to the time and place of your wedding.

For example, if you love our Tomato ceviche with Clevedon Buffalo mozzarella, sherry dressing & wild rocket, it’s perfect for a summer wedding. But for a winter celebration? We’d suggest Balsamic beetroot with baked ricotta & sorrel, a richer, heartier alternative.

Think about the flow of the day

Your wedding has a rhythm and your menu should fit that.

  • Planning a lively cocktail hour? Opt for a mix of canapés and grazing stations to keep guests mingling.
  • Hosting a long lunch affair? A multi-course menu, either plated or shared-style creates a relaxed, abundant feel.
  • Want to surprise guests later in the evening? Late-night bites like sliders, fries, or dessert bars keep the energy going.

The key is to match your menu to the vibe of your day seamlessly blending into the celebration.

Make it fun

Food is meant to be enjoyed. Food should be more than just something to eat, it should be an experience. Adding a playful or interactive element can make your wedding feel even more special.

  • Love sweets? An interactive ice cream station lets guests create their own perfect dessert.
  • Hosting a summer wedding? A fresh oyster bar or live seafood station is a luxe touch.

Think about what makes food fun for you, and don’t be afraid to weave that into your wedding menu.

Planning for dietary requirements

Your menu should be inclusive, ensuring every guest has something incredible to enjoy. We’ll work with you to accommodate dietary needs, whether that’s:

  • Creating dedicated meals for guests with specific restrictions
  • Crafting a menu that naturally caters to a variety of dietary needs
  • Ensuring plant-based or allergen-friendly options are just as exciting and flavourful

Everyone deserves to enjoy the feast, so we make sure no one feels like an afterthought.

Let’s Create a Menu That Feels Like You

No two weddings are the same, and your menu shouldn’t be either. At LittleWolf, we work closely with couples to design menus that reflect their tastes, their story, and the kind of celebration they want to have.

Start Planning Your Wedding Menu

Planning corporate catering for your mid-winter Christmas party?

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In New Zealand, we cherish our summertime beach Christmas, enjoying the sunshine, firing up barbecues, and jumping in the waves. However, when winter arrives, we’re presented with a unique opportunity to embrace the cosy, traditional essence of a North Pole Christmas. It’s a chance to revel in the warmth and charm of a snowy holiday season, surrounded by hearty feasts, crackling fires, and the joy of indoor gatherings with loved ones. There’s an undeniable magic to a mid-winter Christmas.

As the chill sets in and work fatigue looms, it’s the perfect time to treat your staff to some festive cheer, showing appreciation for all their hard work. This winter season, there’s no better way to foster camaraderie than with a shared table mid-winter feast. Picture everyone gathered around a lavishly set table, adorned with flickering candles and filled with delectable, shared dishes.

Let’s dive into a few ideas to get your corporate catering mid-winter Christmas planning underway:

Select a Venue:

Whether you’re planning your corporate catering at a private home, your office, or a venue, we’ve got you covered. We work with a fabulous range of venues that you can explore here. Plus, we’re mobile and can set up a kitchen at any private space, ensuring your event is seamlessly catered to, no matter the location!

Select Your Menu (with LittleWolf, of course):

Selecting the perfect menu is crucial to creating a memorable mid-winter Christmas. Embrace flavours that evoke warmth and comfort – think roast vegetables and hearty meats. Here’s some menu inspiration from our shared table menu pack:

Red wine-braised beef cheek, onion puree, and roast shallots gf

Homemade porchetta, sage and onion stuffing, and caramelized apples

Hasselback potatoes, onion jus

Roasted brussels sprouts, kale and sautéed leek, seaweed, and lemon butter v gf

Manuka honey-glazed carrots, halloumi, and dukkah v gf

Homemade focaccia with truffle and sea salt butter v

Select Furniture:

For a homely set-up, we love hiring the following tables and chairs from our vendor partners Willow Lane Events and Lucy’s Event Hire:

– Trestle Table – Black

– Bench Seat – Black

– Oak Dining Table

– Walnut Bentwood Chair

Style Your Table:

To truly elevate your mid-winter corporate catering Christmas experience, styling plays a pivotal role. Here are some tips to craft a visually stunning shared table set-up:

  • Select Elegant Tableware and Serving Platters (we recommend Folio Hire tableware)

Choose tableware that complements the winter theme. White and silver dishes, paired with crystal glasses, project elegance and sophistication, elevating the dining experience. Opt for an array of different serving platters and bowls to showcase the feast. Tiered stands add visual interest and dimension to the table.

  • Festive Centerpieces

Infuse seasonal elements such as pinecones, holly, and softly glowing candles to fashion a warm, festive setting. Consider rustic wooden boards or trays as the base for displaying food, adding a touch of homely charm to the ambiance.

Layer the table with linens, such as a tablecloth and napkins in warm shades such as burgundy, forest green, or beige.

  • Lighting

Create a soft, ambient glow with strategically placed string lights, fairy lights, and flickering candles.

Hopefully, this guide helps get your creative juices flowing for your corporate catering mid-winter Christmas soiree. Reach out to us today, and let’s collaborate to make your day truly magical!

Five red flags to look out for when organising your wedding caterer

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Five red flags to look out for when organising your wedding caterer

Planning a wedding involves so many important decisions, and one of the key aspects is selecting the perfect caterer. The right caterer can transform your wedding reception into a culinary delight, leaving a lasting impression on your guests. However, it’s crucial to be aware of potential red flags when choosing a wedding caterer. In this blog, we will discuss five red flags that you should be vigilant about when organising your wedding caterer. By keeping an eye out for these warning signs, you can ensure a smooth and memorable catering experience for your special day.

1 – Lack of Flexibility

A reputable wedding caterer should be willing to accommodate your unique preferences, dietary requirements, and theme. If you encounter a caterer who seems inflexible or unwilling to work within your vision, it may be a red flag. Your caterer should be open to discussing menu options, providing tastings, and adjusting their offerings to suit your needs. A lack of flexibility could indicate potential issues down the line and could hinder the overall success of your wedding reception. 

An important factor to remember here is distinguishing the difference between being inflexible and being realistic about what you’re asking. If you have a tight budget but are asking for something that is out of season or hard to acquire, your caterer should be able to talk you through some alternative solutions. It’s a bright green flag if your caterer is able to digest what you are asking (pun intended) and provide you with options.

2 – Poor Communication

Effective communication is vital during the wedding planning process, as it is essential to ensure that your vision, preferences, and requirements are understood and met. 

If you notice delays in response times, difficulty reaching your caterer, or a lack of clear and concise communication, it could be cause for concern. They should be responsive to your queries, whether it’s through phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings. Timely responses demonstrate their commitment to your wedding and indicate that they value your business. Prompt communication also allows you to address any questions or concerns promptly, minimising potential misunderstandings or errors, but also bear in mind that your caterer is also a human being, so maybe don’t expect an instant reply if you message at 6 am on a Sunday morning! 

Poor communication can also create additional follow-up tasks and stress for you as the bride- or groom-to-be. Instead of having clear, concise information readily available, you may find yourself having to chase after your caterer for updates or clarification. This additional burden can be overwhelming when you already have a long list of tasks to manage in preparation for your wedding.

3 – Limited Experience or Portfolio

When evaluating potential caterers, their experience and portfolio are crucial indicators of their capabilities. A lack of relevant experience or a limited portfolio might suggest that the caterer is inexperienced in handling large-scale events like weddings. Look for caterers with a proven track record in wedding catering and lots of positive reviews from past clients. A seasoned caterer will be well-equipped to handle any challenges that may arise, ensuring the success of your wedding reception.

4 – Unprofessional Behaviour

Professionalism is paramount when dealing with wedding vendors, including caterers. Pay attention to how the caterer presents themselves, their staff, and their overall conduct. Signs of unprofessionalism can include late arrivals, disorganisation, poorly maintained equipment, or untrained staff. Remember, your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you deserve a caterer who will treat it with the utmost respect and professionalism.

How to pinpoint the underlining signs of unprofessional? After your interaction with your potential caterer, take a moment to assess how you feel after talking with them: Are you left not understanding parts of the process or feel like you were shut down in your ideas? They may not be the right fit for you.

5 – Lack of Reviews or Testimonials

A reputable wedding caterer should have a list of satisfied clients who can vouch for their services. Seek out testimonials and reviews from previous couples who have worked with the caterer. If a caterer is unwilling or unable to provide testimonials, it could be a red flag. Hearing positive feedback from past clients will give you peace of mind and confidence in your decision to choose a particular caterer for your special day. It is also a great way to see what the set-up on the day can look like. 

By being aware of these five red flags you can avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests. Remember to trust your instincts and thoroughly research potential caterers before making a final decision. With a vigilant approach, you’ll be able to find a wedding caterer who exceeds your expectations and helps create cherished memories on your big day.

At LittleWolf, we understand the importance of selecting the perfect caterer for your wedding. Our experienced team is committed to providing exceptional service, personalised menus, and a seamless experience. We pride ourselves on our flexibility, clear communication, and utmost professionalism. Contact us today to discuss your wedding catering needs and let us help you create an unforgettable culinary experience that will delight both you and your guests.

Ten tips for planning your next summer event

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Ten tips for planning your next summer event:
Happy New Year! The weather hasn’t been on our side lately, but here are ten tips to make planning your next summer (and hopefully sunny) event a success. Here’s hoping the weather gods will listen up!

1 – Protect your guests from the elements. Auckland is renowned for its stunning summer days with a touch of thunderstorms. Make sure you arrange plenty of shade if you’re entertaining outside or shelter in the case of rain. Marquees, outdoor umbrellas, and natural shade are all great choices.

2 – Sunscreen and insect repellent are crucial. New Zealand sun is harsh during the days, and our mossies love a feed at dusk. The guests who have forgotten to Slip, Slop, Slap will thank you for this!

3 – Hydration hydration hydration. Play around with fun non-alcoholic beverages to keep your guests well hydrated. Try adding cucumber or citrus to your water or add on one of our LittleWolf homemade lemonade dispensers.

4 – Get inventive. Incorporate floral ice cubes, fun garnishes, and a range of tonics at a gin bar. Provide your guests with some fun, interactive experiences.

5 – Organise plenty of ice. Chill your beverages down in ice bins so that the fridge isn’t open every few minutes (we are yet to meet a person who prefers a warm beer). 

6 – Consider a roaming menu. A casual roaming option is a great way to provide delicious food throughout the event without guests having to be seated in one place.

7 – Plan your playlist. You can’t go wrong with some kiwi summer tunes (or some 80’s hits to finish up the evening).

8 – Think about incorporating lounging furniture. If you are dining outside, avoid metal seating that will absorb heat (and burn). Provide plenty of seating, lounging furniture, picnic rugs, or pillows to allow your guests to relax.

9 – Outdoor games. We are all competitive and kids at heart. Think Pétanque, Giant Jenga, or Kubb.

10 – Don’t sweat the small stuff (the only sweating should be from the heat if this rain passes). An event doesn’t have to be perfect and planned down to the second; have fun with your friends and family, and the rest will fall into place.
Happy entertaining!

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