Choosing the perfect meal for your big day starts with the right inspiration. These sample wedding menus cover a range of styles, budgets, and themes to help you create a dining experience your guests will remember. Whether you’re looking for wedding menu examples for a rustic backyard celebration, an elegant black-tie affair, or a laid-back brunch wedding, this guide has you covered.
Table of Contents
- Elegant Formal Wedding Menu (Plated)
- More Sample Wedding Menus
- Rustic Backyard Wedding Menu (Buffet)
- Sample Wedding Menus: Beach Wedding Menu
- Sample Wedding Menus: Garden or Boho Wedding Menu
- Winter Wedding Menu
- Fall Wedding Menu
- Budget-Friendly Sample Wedding Menus
- Vegan & Vegetarian Wedding Menu
- Wedding Brunch Menu Sample
- Rehearsal Dinner Menu Sample
- Tips for Customizing Sample Wedding Menus
- FAQ: Sample Wedding Menus
- Final Thoughts on Sample Wedding Menus
Elegant Formal Wedding Menu (Plated)
For a luxurious affair, a plated menu offers elegance and structure. Here’s a sample wedding dinner menu example perfect for formal settings:
- Starter: Butternut squash soup or lobster bisque
- Salad: Arugula with goat cheese, beets, and balsamic glaze
- Entrée: Filet mignon with garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus
- Dessert: Mini crème brûlée and chocolate truffles
- Drinks: Signature cocktails, champagne, and fine wine
- Wedding bar menu example: Full-service bar with spirits, mixers, and non-alcoholic options
More Sample Wedding Menus
Rustic Backyard Wedding Menu (Buffet)
This wedding buffet menu example delivers charm and flavor without the formal structure.
- Salad Bar: Mixed greens, toppings, and dressings
- Main Course: Pulled pork, grilled chicken, mac & cheese
- Sides: Cornbread, roasted vegetables, baked beans
- Dessert: Mini pies (apple, pecan, cherry)
- Drinks: Lemonade, iced tea, beer
- Sample wedding menu wording: “Help yourself to a hearty, home-style buffet full of rustic favorites.”
Sample Wedding Menus: Beach Wedding Menu
A light and refreshing menu with tropical touches is ideal for coastal weddings.
- Starter: Shrimp cocktail or ceviche
- Main: Grilled mahi-mahi with mango salsa or chicken kabobs
- Sides: Coconut rice, tropical fruit salad
- Dessert: Key lime pie or mini cheesecake
- Wedding bar menu example: Rum punch, mojitos, and fresh coconut water
Sample Wedding Menus: Garden or Boho Wedding Menu
Earthy, organic, and perfect for the free-spirited couple.
- Appetizer: Hummus and pita platters, caprese skewers
- Entrée: Stuffed portobello mushrooms, lemon-herb grilled chicken
- Sides: Couscous salad, roasted seasonal vegetables
- Dessert: Naked cake with edible flowers
- Drinks: Herbal iced teas, sangria, sparkling water
Winter Wedding Menu
Warm, hearty dishes are ideal for chilly weather weddings.
- Starter: Roasted tomato soup with basil
- Main Course: Braised short ribs or roasted turkey
- Sides: Truffle mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts with bacon
- Dessert: Bread pudding or hot chocolate bar
- Drinks: Mulled wine, hot cider, red wines
Fall Wedding Menu
Inspired by fall flavors and cozy comfort foods.
- Appetizer: Butternut squash ravioli
- Entrée: Herb-roasted chicken or pork loin with apple glaze
- Sides: Sweet potato mash, harvest salad
- Dessert: Pumpkin cheesecake or caramel apple tartlets
- Drinks: Spiced cider, bourbon cocktails, seasonal beers
Budget-Friendly Sample Wedding Menus
Keep it affordable without sacrificing taste.
- Starter: Caesar salad or soup of the day
- Main Course: Pasta bar (alfredo, marinara, pesto), grilled chicken
- Sides: Garlic bread, steamed vegetables
- Dessert: Cupcakes or sheet cake
- Drinks: Self-serve lemonade, punch, coffee
Sample wedding menus on a budget make it easy to plan without overspending.
Vegan & Vegetarian Wedding Menu
Plant-based menus are flavorful, inclusive, and eco-friendly.
- Starter: Roasted red pepper hummus with pita
- Entrée: Lentil loaf, jackfruit tacos, or mushroom risotto
- Sides: Grilled zucchini, couscous salad
- Dessert: Vegan chocolate cake or fruit sorbet
- Drinks: Sparkling lemonade, vegan wine
Wedding Brunch Menu Sample
For morning or early afternoon weddings, brunch menus delight.
- Brunch Buffet: Waffles, eggs benedict, fresh fruit, pastries
- Savory Options: Bacon, sausage links, hash browns
- Dessert: Mini donuts, yogurt parfaits
- Drinks: Mimosas, coffee, tea
Wedding brunch menu samples offer both elegance and approachability.
Rehearsal Dinner Menu Sample
These options are relaxed and festive, perfect for pre-wedding gatherings.
- Italian: Lasagna, garlic bread, Caesar salad
- BBQ: Brisket, coleslaw, mac & cheese
- Mexican: Tacos, rice & beans, chips & guacamole
- Drinks: Beer, wine, margaritas
Rehearsal dinner menu samples allow for variety and guest enjoyment without the pressure of formal dining.
Tips for Customizing Sample Wedding Menus
- Personalize with local favorites or cultural dishes.
- Offer options for dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, etc.).
- Match the menu to your season and venue for the best experience.
- Consider sample wedding menu wording on your signage to match your wedding theme and tone.
FAQ: Sample Wedding Menus
Can I combine elements from different sample menus?
Absolutely. Mixing styles lets you personalize your menu to your tastes and guests’ preferences.
How do I make my wedding menu budget-friendly?
Stick to seasonal ingredients, buffet-style service, and limit the number of courses.
Should I include a bar menu on my wedding program?
Yes, a wedding bar menu example helps guests know what drinks are available and adds elegance to your reception signage.
Final Thoughts on Sample Wedding Menus
These sample wedding menus are just starting points. Use them to inspire a menu that reflects your unique love story, satisfies your guests, and fits your vision. For more ideas on how to plan a delicious and memorable wedding meal, visit our wedding menu ideas post.
Want more inspiration? Don’t miss these helpful blog posts on wedding menu ideas, fall wedding ideas, and wedding ceremony ideas. Each one is packed with creative tips to help you plan your dream celebration.