Selecting your wedding menu can be one of the most fun tasks of all the decisions you have to make while planning. Food, cocktails, desserts, oh my! But before you jump in, select all your favorites and call it a day, consider these important factors.

YOUR BUDGET

Depending on your plans, selecting your wedding menu may not affect your budget at all if you've already opted for a preset plan offered by your venue or caterer. For others, it can be a time that can make or break the bank. Be aware of your budget and comfortable spending ranges. Typically 20-40% off your wedding budget should be for food and drink so keep that in mind while picking out your catering options.

YOUR COCKTAIL HOUR

If you're having a jam-packed cocktail hour with multiple chef stations, passed hors d'oeuvres, and buffets, you're going to be covering a lot of culinary bases. Try not to over-offer, and save the most special items for dinner. For example, if you're having a pasta bar at your cocktail hour, then you don't have to offer pasta again in your main menu, or vice versa. Double-offering similar dishes can sometimes take away from the "wow" factor.

Your cocktail hour can also affect your course offerings. If your cocktail hour is one for the books, then many parts of a five- or six-course meal to follow might just go uneaten, or worse—leave your guests full and sleepy. Keep them partying and on the dance floor by finding the appropriate food options. Conversely, if you're having simpler cocktail hour or are not having one at all, just be certain that you're providing enough food. Having hungry guests is a no-no.

TIME OF YEAR

A great guiding principle while planning your menu is to think locally and seasonally. One of the best ways to have a stand-out dinner or cocktail-hour menu is to celebrate the season and best local finds, and give each a moment to shine. Getting married in the fall? Find ways to incorporate pumpkin, squash, and cinnamon flavors for cozy (and delicious!) vibes. New Jersey wedding? Feature fresh-made mozzarella accompanied with famous Jersey tomatoes as a caprese salad option. The freshest ingredients make for the best meals that stand out to your guests.

HOUSE SPECIALTIES

If your venue is known for a certain dish or menu offerings, you should strongly consider offering those as well. Fan favorites and chef specialties are always delicious additions. Wedding venues are able to give you accurate guidance on what was successful at other weddings. Recommendations are the easiest way to hit it out of the park.

YOUR VISION

Whatever your vision is for your big day, your menu should also support and celebrate the theme. For formal affairs, lobsters and filets are the perfect classic staples. Getting married in New Orleans? You'd be remiss to not offer at least a few Cajun delicacies. Country wedding? At least a few items should be BBQ. While there's tons of room and flexibility to play, be sure as you're selecting your meals and appetizers that they are cohesive and "make sense" according to your big-day plans.

FOOD TRENDS

Food trucks are always to be considered, especially to use as a tool to bring guests to an outside area. Food trucks are a great way to bring your favorite food or restaurant to your guests for an overall fun and personal experience. Having this one option compared to an entire cocktail hour spread could save you money towards other factors of your budget.