How many dietary options should a wedding menu have?
There is no single correct number. The practical goal is to identify the dietary needs you know about and make sure the caterer has a clear plan for appropriate alternatives, preparation, labeling, and service.
How the checker works
The tool reviews five broad planning areas: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-aware, allergy-process readiness, and menu breadth. The allergy count is intentionally just a count; it does not collect medical details and does not determine whether any meal is safe.
Methodology
| Area | Marked covered when |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian | An intentional vegetarian option is selected |
| Vegan | An intentional vegan option is selected |
| Gluten-aware | A caterer-identified gluten-aware option is selected |
| Declared allergies | No declared allergies, or separate preparation is selected |
| Menu breadth | Shown as context, not treated as a safety guarantee |
Examples
Limited menu
A limited menu can still work when the caterer intentionally provides alternatives and explains its preparation process.
Mixed menu
A mixed menu with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-aware choices gives broader flexibility but still needs verification.
Broad menu
A broad menu offers more choice, but a large menu is not automatically safer for allergy-sensitive guests.
Common mistakes
- Calling a dish safe without asking about preparation and cross-contact.
- Confusing vegetarian with vegan.
- Assuming gluten-aware means suitable for every person with an allergy or medical condition.
- Collecting unnecessary medical information in the wedding planning process.
FAQs
How many dietary options should a wedding menu have?
Enough to address the needs you know about, with caterer verification for ingredients and preparation.
Should a wedding have vegan options?
When guests need them, an intentional vegan option is a practical choice.
What about gluten-free wedding food?
Ask how the caterer defines and prepares gluten-aware food rather than relying only on menu labels.
How do I handle allergies at a wedding?
Use the caterer's established process and ask how meals are prepared, labeled, and served.
Can a caterer guarantee allergy safety?
Do not assume a guarantee. Ask what controls are actually used and follow the caterer's instructions.