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Culinary
Trends and Customizing Menus for Ethnic Weddings
You've
planned your wedding to reflect the heritage of your two families, from
the music to the marriage ceremony itself. Don't forget one more
detail: the menus. Your reception cuisine can set the stage for the remainder
of this important event, showcasing your heritage from appetizers all
the way through to the wedding cake.
To learn more about culinary
trends and ethnic weddings, we talked with Diana
Shapiro, Event Coordinator for the New
York Marriott at Brooklyn Bridge for her suggestions about how you
can customize your reception menu.
What
exciting trends are you seeing in terms of reception cuisine?
Asian-fusion stations are still in demand as well as themed receptions.
Stations are always very popular. As much as clients feel a sit-down dinner
is more elegant than a buffet, the guests tend to enjoy the variety of
a buffet more.
Has the low-carb trend influenced menu offerings
at many wedding receptions?
I have not seen an influx of low-carb influenced menus for our weddings
or social events. Low-carb or Atkins-friendly menus are very popular with
our corporate clients and are frequently requested. With regard to the
weddings, I feel our clients may have spent a lot of time and effort to
get in shape for the big day itself that when the day finally arrives,
it is time to truly enjoy!
For couples adding ethnic or multicultural touches to their wedding ceremony,
what culinary touches can be added to the reception?
Our
culinary staff is very diverse. Our chefs are international and they can
create a menu that reflects our clients ethnicity. Our West Indian/Caribbean
menus can consist of Jerk Chicken, Rice and Beans, Oxtail, Fried Plantains
and Collard Greens. These menus are very popular. We have also created
multi-cultural menus offering both American and Indian cuisine. Sushi
is always popular and we can provide a sushi station with an attendant
to prepare the sushi to order.
What tips do you have for couples with an eye
on the budget?
Be true to your needs and your vision for the day. Your wedding should
be a reflection of both your personalities and your styles.
People will always give advice on what they think you need or should have
as far as flowers, decorations, etc. Unfortunately, this can do more harm
than good to a couple who may not have the budget to support it. If large
floral centerpieces are not fitting into the budget, cover the tables
in rose petals and assorted pillar candles. This is both cost effective
and romantic.
Should a friend or family
member ask if they can help, say "yes!" There are favors and
place cards that they can help with, and this could end up saving the
bride and groom a lot of money. Also, the personal touch of their loved
ones will help make the day even more special. In the end it's Joy...your
dream wedding!
Click
here for
an interview with Diana about planning a wedding at the New York Marriott
at Brooklyn Bridge
To plan a Marriott
wedding, call the Marriott of your choice and ask to consult with
the hotel's wedding event planner. For more information on Marriott Hotels,
Resorts, and Suites, call 1-800-228-9290 or see www.marriott.com.
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