When it comes to weddings, we often overlook one of the most significant and memorable aspects: the food. On Bridal Musings, we’ve explored popular wedding food trends like hog roasts and pie pops, but a new trend is gaining momentum – the rise of food trucks at nuptials. Street food has been experiencing a global surge in popularity, with each city having its unique specialties. In New York, it’s hot dogs; in LA, taco trucks are all the rage; Hanoi boasts Banh Mi; Amsterdam loves chips and peanut mayo. Londoners enjoy everything from cod ‘n chips to pulled pork or pies. I’ve recently developed a taste for Fish Dogs! These food trucks, typically found at festivals and farmers’ markets, have adapted their skills to cater to weddings too. They offer a unique, laid-back, and budget-friendly way to feed your guests. What better way to personalize the food at your wedding than by incorporating your favorite local Friday night food truck? It’s a quirky, memorable, and personal touch that will make your special day truly unforgettable.
Top Tips for Having a Food Truck At Your Wedding
When planning your wedding menu, don’t forget to consider the logistics of serving street food to your guests. It’s essential to ensure you have enough sustenance for everyone, as people often arrive hungry after skipping lunch or breakfast. Have a plan in place for second helpings and be prepared to accommodate varying appetites. In addition to the main course, think about offering sides and toppings to complement the dishes being served. This will give your guests more options and allow them to customize their meals.When choosing street food vendors, select ones who can deliver on speed and service. While they may be used to serving large groups throughout the day, wedding expectations are slightly different. Be sure to discuss napkins, presentation, and time frames with your vendors upfront. This will help ensure a seamless experience for your guests.Before booking a food truck, verify that your venue allows outside vendors and parking. You’ll also want to confirm if there’s access to electricity and sufficient space for the truck to park and for your guests to queue. Choose vendors you have a rapport with and whose dishes you’ve enjoyed in the past. This will help guarantee an exceptional experience on your special day.To manage expectations, consider letting your closest friends and family know what to expect from the street food offerings. Signage or a mic can be helpful in directing guests to the truck and ensuring everyone knows when and where it’s located.Don’t forget to take advantage of the photo opportunities presented by having a food truck at your wedding. It’s a great chance to capture some candid, quirky shots during the day. Finally, don’t overlook the importance of planning for inclement weather. Consider alternative locations or logistics to ensure that your outdoor dining experience remains enjoyable, regardless of the conditions.
Coffee Stop
Whether you and your partner are fuelled by caffeine or simply appreciate a good cuppa, consider treating your wedding guests to their favorite brew. Many coffee companies offer mobile services that can deliver a cart or truck to your event. Instead of serving traditional cocktails during the reception, why not swap them out for coffee and sweet treats like cake, doughnuts, or cookies? The combination is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Burger Bus
When it comes to street food, the burger is undoubtedly king. Whether you’re craving classic beef, pulled pork, falafel, or chicken, the possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your street food experience. But here’s a key consideration: while larger burgers may be satisfying for a main course, they can be overwhelming as part of a cocktail hour or evening gathering. That’s why opting for bite-sized sliders might be the way to go – they’re perfect for mingling and snacking.
Just Desserts
With the rise of dessert tables as a staple at weddings and events, it’s only natural that the next evolution in this trend would be the introduction of dessert trucks. Imagine the excitement on your guests’ faces when a truck filled with sweet treats such as cupcakes, donuts, or other goodies pulls up to the party! This unique touch not only breaks up the flow of dinner but also provides a fun and playful way to keep things moving without leaving guests feeling lethargic from sitting too long. It’s a thoughtful way to keep your loved ones entertained and satisfied throughout the evening.
Bar on Wheels
The allure of a bar truck at a wedding is undeniable – it’s undeniably cool! As an alternative to a venue-owned bar, a mobile bar can be a game-changer, providing an affordable and logistically simple solution. Plus, it offers a unique feature for guests to enjoy, making the experience even more memorable.
Chip Van
The humble French fry is often touted as a late-night snack that can’t be beat. While it’s hard to argue with the classic appeal of a fish and chip van in the wee hours or chic chip cones at cocktail hour, we have a special spot in our hearts for something a little more elevated: a gravy-laced poutine after a night spent dancing on the floor. There’s just something about the combination of crispy fries, savory gravy, and melted cheese that hits the spot in a way that few other snacks can.
Pizza Party
As we’ve noticed a growing trend of pizzas making their way onto wedding menus, it’s not hard to see why they’re so well-liked. Not only is pizza a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also an affordable and versatile option that can cater to a variety of tastes and dietary requirements. Whether you opt for meat-based options or veggie delights, make sure to include at least one gluten-free and vegan choice to ensure all your guests can enjoy the festivities. Serve slices individually or pass around boxes for sharing – perfect for creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.
Taco Truck
Tacos are a crowd-pleaser, as evident from the many menus we’ve seen at real weddings. While they may not be as ubiquitous on this side of the Atlantic as taco trucks that dot the streets in US cities, their laid-back charm and ease of consumption make them an excellent fit for cocktail hour or a casual buffet spread. With no utensils required, these tasty treats can be enjoyed while standing or mingling with guests.
Doggy Bag
Imagine the delight on your guests’ faces when they’re presented with a surprise hot dog bar at your wedding reception. The idea of a couple exchanging vows and then heading off to grab a quick bite between ceremonies is certainly charming, but why not bring the fun to your guests instead? By setting up a dedicated station with all the fixings – ketchup, onions, mustard, and more – you can create a unique and memorable snack experience that will leave your loved ones feeling full and festive. Who says wedding food has to be stuffy or formal?