How to plan ahead for guests with dietary restrictions

How to plan ahead for guests with dietary restrictions

Planning a wedding menu that makes everyone happy is no small feat, especially when dietary restrictions come into play. From allergies and intolerances to personal beliefs and medical needs, dietary restrictions at weddings are more common than ever. And while the idea of customizing meals for dozens (or hundreds) of guests might sound overwhelming, it’s totally doable – with a little foresight, some honest communication and a solid plan.

Here’s how to ensure every guest leaves full, happy and grateful for your consideration.

Ask the right questions – early

Your RSVP card is more powerful than you think because it’s not just about chicken or fish anymore. Use it to add a simple prompt like: “Please list any dietary restrictions or allergies” on your response cards or online RSVP form. This one little line can save you major stress down the road – and help you identify dietary restrictions at weddings well in advance.

And yes, some guests will write novels (“no onions, no mushrooms, I once had a bad experience with goat cheese”), but most people will be straightforward: vegetarian, gluten-free, nut allergy, etc. Having this information early means you can pass it on to your caterer without scrambling at the last minute.

Work with a caterer who gets it

Not every wedding catering team has experience with complex dietary needs so during tastings or vendor interviews, ask the right questions. Do they offer gluten-free, vegan or allergy-conscious meals that don’t feel like an afterthought? Can they accommodate cross-contamination concerns for guests with severe allergies?

A great caterer won’t just offer swaps – they’ll have a clear strategy in place. Whether it’s colour-coded plates, kitchen protocols or dedicated prep areas, you want someone who takes dietary restrictions at weddings seriously, not just as a side note.

Keep it inclusive, not isolating

No one wants to feel like the “weird eater” at the table. Instead of crafting separate, sad-looking plates for guests with dietary restrictions, work with your caterer to design a wedding menu that feels naturally inclusive. Think build-your-own stations, family-style platters with variety or complete courses that just happen to be plant-based or gluten-free.

The goal? Guests with dietary needs should feel like they’re getting the same wedding experience as everyone else, not a pared-down version. Inclusive wedding menu planning isn’t about doing more – it’s about doing smarter.

Label with love

Whether you’re serving plated dinners, buffets or food stations, clear labels go a long way. No need for a full ingredient list but a simple “contains nuts” or “vegan-friendly” sign is helpful – and appreciated. 

You could even add a cute icon system or elegant printed menu cards with clear notations. It’s small details like this that show you truly thought about everyone, and that dietary restrictions at weddings don’t have to mean boring food or awkward workarounds.

Don’t forget the drinks and dessert

It’s easy to focus all your energy on dinner but the bar and wedding dessert table deserve the same level of care. Some liqueurs and mixers contain allergens such as dairy or eggs, and vegan or gluten-free guests might be left out of a traditional cake cutting.

Talk to your baker about offering a dessert trio or mini options, like coconut milk panna cotta, flourless chocolate cake or vegan cupcakes. If you’re planning a dessert table, be sure to include allergen-friendly signage, just as you would for dinner.

And when it comes to drinks, consider having a few mocktail options, too – whether for pregnant guests, non-drinkers or anyone avoiding alcohol for health or religious reasons. Wedding menu planning is about the full experience, not just the main course.

Be upfront with guests (and yourself)

There’s no need to take on every restriction and preference like a personal challenge. You’re not running a restaurant – you’re planning a wedding. Communicate with your guests in advance if only certain allergies or needs can be accommodated, and be transparent about what’s possible.

You’re already going above and beyond by even thinking about dietary restrictions at weddings. Most guests will appreciate the effort and understand that you may not be able to tailor the menu to every single preference.

Wedding menu planning that works for everyone

The secret to smart wedding menu planning is striking a balance between variety and simplicity. You don’t need twelve entrée options – you need a menu that offers something safe, satisfying and stylish for everyone. With the right wedding caterer, some creative thinking, and a sprinkle of empathy, you can design a menu that keeps everyone happy.