Organizing a wedding is no easy feat. Among the seemingly endless decisions that need to be made, deciding on the menu may be the most difficult task of all. Fortunately, the stress of figuring out what to serve on your big day can be greatly alleviated with the help of an expert, so we turned to Lauren Chambers, founder and owner of Direct My Day. Of the many tips and tricks that can make menu planning easier, Chambers’ most important advice is to consider the time of year your wedding will be held in and take inspiration from that.

“Seasonal ingredients not only taste better, but can also be more cost-effective,” explains Chambers. Since harvests peak at different times of the year, matching your wedding menu to the season ensures that ingredients are at their most vibrant. It also guarantees the feasibility of certain dishes, since certain ingredients are easier to source. Creating a menu focused on seasonality can even be an environmentally friendly choice, since ingredients can be sourced locally.

Because seasonal produce is only available for a limited time, presenting it in a seasonally inspired menu increases its novelty. It also enhances its appeal, which is especially true when ingredients are used in a cohesive way that reflects the season. Chambers explains, “A summer wedding might focus on fresh berries and light, refreshing dishes, while a fall wedding might focus on root vegetables and savory flavors.”

Creating a memorable wedding menu is all about letting fresh and flavoursome ingredients speak for themselves and thinking about which dishes suit the season – warm soups and decadent roasts may not be as popular in the sweltering summer as they are in the frosty winter. Likewise, it’s worth thinking about colours and symbols (flowers, leaves, icicles etc.) associated with the season, as these elements can enhance the aesthetic and enhance the dining experience even further.

Additionally, Lauren Chambers stresses the importance of variety. A wide selection of seasonal dishes makes for an exciting menu, as there is the opportunity to try different dishes. Additionally, a rich wedding menu allows guests with special diets or allergies to easily participate in the celebration. In addition to offering vegetarian options, Chambers explains, “A balanced menu with chicken, seafood and red meat ensures there is something for everyone.”

Finally, remember that luxury ingredients have no place in your main course. Showcasing seasonal bounty is enough to impress guests, as long as there are enough options to accommodate preferences and dietary restrictions. There’s no doubt about it: when it comes to simplifying menu planning without compromising on quality, follow Chambers’ advice and remember that a seasonal menu is best!