Food plays a large part in each event surrounding a wedding, both before and after the big day. Whether it’s a bachelorette or bachelor party, the rehearsal dinner, a lunch with the whole wedding party, or even breakfast the following morning to send off the bride and groom – several meals will need to be planned.

Before beginning the planning process, you need to determine the kind of menu you will want. Will you serve breakfast, lunch or dinner? Will you follow a theme? Are you going to serve a full meal or just hors d’oeuvres? The type of food served and any guests’ dietary restrictions will also become a factor. To accommodate anyone with food allergies or other sensitivities, it’s best to serve a variety of foods everyone can enjoy. 

To help you get started, we have connected with the uber-talented Robin Goldstein. Professionally trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Robin's undeniable talent is displayed in her 4 cookbooks written in our local area, featuring Santa Barbara, Ojai and The Santa Ynez Valley. Consider some of these ideas for brunch, lunch, and dinner; many of the recipes coming from her cookbooks and food she prepares for local clients:

Brunch 

Brunch is a perfect go-to for any smaller, more intimate gathering. It gives off the feeling of casual elegance, and also comes with a smaller price tag when you hire a caterer or private chef, like the talented Chef Robin. Fill your menu with a fun mimosa or Bellini bar, homemade quiche, yogurt with nuts and honey, fresh fruit salad, and breakfast bread or French toast.

Lunch

Looking for more savory options? Lunch is the way to go. Try a theme such as French, and make poached salmon Nicoise salad with assorted bread, and a French cheese board. The great thing about lunch is a lot of preparation can be done beforehand, or you could consider hiring a chef for a special on-site demonstration or hands-on cooking class, perfect for your close group of friends and family.

Dinner

Planning dinner, even for a smaller group, can seem daunting and a bit pricey. Have a set budget for the evening and consider asking everyone to pitch in with cooking and clean up. You could also consider hiring a party helper or private chef to be on-site, especially for a full sit-down dinner experience.

Test out a beach-themed Greek menu with grilled chicken, pita bread or falafel, lamb meatballs, Greek salad with feta, and traditional Greek sweets for something fresh and light. Or offer a selection of filling appetizers such as a grazing board of cheeses, charcuterie, spreads, dips, and tapas for your guests to nibble on.

Also, don’t forget the drinks! Specialty cocktails are all the rage – think seasonal fruits.

Whether you plan to provide a full meal, just snacks, or some delectable desserts, a lot of organization and communication will be involved, even with a smaller amount of guests. So, start planning early and remember to be flexible. Also, be aware of your options and take into consideration hiring a private chef for onsite cooking or a hands-on demonstration for a unique experience perfect for your smaller, more intimate gatherings.

Also, be aware of your options and take into consideration hiring Private Chef Robin for drop off meals, onsite cooking, or hands-on demonstrations for a unique experience perfect for your smaller, more intimate gatherings.