Questions to Ask Your Wedding Caterer at Your Menu Tasting
When planning your wedding, asking the right questions at the right time can make all the difference. Each vendor plays a key role, and being informed helps avoid confusion, last-minute surprises, or mismatched expectations. One of the most important partners in your celebration? Your wedding caterer. The food sets the tone for your reception, and your menu tasting is your chance to dive deeper. Below, I’m sharing a few questions I always recommend couples ask during their tasting to ensure a smooth, delicious dinner service on wedding day—and to get the most from your wedding caterer.
1. Where Do You Source Your Ingredients?
This is a must-ask, especially if you and your partner consider yourselves foodies or want to prioritize sustainability. Sourcing speaks volumes about the quality of ingredients and the caterer's culinary values. Local and organic sourcing often results in fresher, more flavorful dishes—and supports small farms and producers in your community.
Some of my favorite wedding caterers in Northern Virginia who prioritize farm-to-table menus and seasonal offerings include:
Bluewater Kitchen: A full-service true farm-to-table catering and event planning company serving Loudoun County and the greater Washington DC area. They create customized menus for each event, working hand in hand with farmers and ranchers.
Root & Stem Catering: Based in Falls Church, VA, they offer fresh, modern, farm-to-table catering with a focus on sustainable and local food sourcing. Their chefs collaborate with clients to create memorable dining experiences.
Catering by Seasons: Serving the DC, MD, and VA areas, they provide farm-to-table menus with locally sourced food and exceptional service. They are the only 4-Star green caterer on the East Coast.
Asking this question can also open the door to unique, locally inspired dishes that elevate your wedding menu.
2. Will the Food Be Prepared as It Has Been Today?
Your menu tasting experience is often more curated and intimate than wedding-day service. It’s important to understand if what you’re tasting will be replicated exactly, or if the method changes when cooking for 100+ guests. This helps set realistic expectations and invites a conversation about how dishes will scale.
Couples should also ask how flexible the menu is when it comes to dietary restrictions or allergies. Can the caterer offer a vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free option that still fits the theme of the meal? Understanding these details early helps your guests feel included and cared for.
3. What Wine Do You Recommend for the Menu, and Will It Be Available Tableside?
Food and wine pairing can take your reception meal from good to unforgettable. Whether your wedding caterer provides the wine or works with a separate bar service, it’s worth asking what pairings they recommend—and how that wine will be served.
If wine isn't available tableside, guests may need to leave their seats during dinner to visit the bar, which can interrupt the dining experience. Tableside service elevates the event and contributes to a more seamless, luxurious feel.
Final Thoughts
Your menu tasting is more than just a delicious preview—it’s your opportunity to build trust and clarity with your wedding caterer. With the right questions, you can walk into your wedding day knowing your meal will delight your guests and reflect your taste and style.
Need more tips on planning your Virginia wedding? Explore our full-service planning offerings or check out our blog post on designing your wedding menu with intention.
