Handling the Great British Weather: Wedding Catering Tips

The great British weather can be a fickle mistress. One moment you’re basking in the warmth of a summer sun, and the next, you’re caught in an April shower in the height of July or experiencing an unexpected heatwave in October. For wedding caterers, this unpredictability poses unique challenges, from ensuring your wedding cake doesn’t melt in a marquee to preventing your canapés from getting soggy in a sudden downpour.

So, how do we, as experienced wedding caterers, handle the changeable weather? The answer lies in meticulous planning and keeping a close eye on the weather forecast leading up to your special day!

Preparing for Unseasonably Warm Weather

Unseasonably warm weather can be a pleasant surprise, but it requires special considerations to ensure the comfort of your guests and the integrity of your menu. Here’s how we prepare:

Extra Ice and Drinks: Hydration is key in warm weather. We make sure to stock up on plenty of ice, soft drinks, and water. This helps keep your guests cool and refreshed throughout the day.

Lighter Menu Choices: A heavy meal can feel overwhelming in the heat. We adapt your menu to include more light and refreshing options, such as salads, chilled soups, and fresh fruits. Think cucumber canapés, gazpacho shots, and fruit skewers.

Sun Shades: If your wedding is outdoors, providing adequate shade is crucial. We can recommend suppliers who offer stylish sun shades or tents to create comfortable, shaded areas for your guests to relax and enjoy the festivities.

Handling Unexpected Showers

Rain on your wedding day might seem like a disaster, but with the right preparations, it can be just another beautiful element of your celebration:

Brollies and Marquees: Having a supply of umbrellas on hand for guests is a simple yet effective way to deal with a sudden shower. For more comprehensive coverage, setting up a marquee can ensure that everyone stays dry and comfortable. A clear-top marquee can offer protection while still allowing natural light and scenic views.

Weather-Proof Food: We take extra care to protect your canapés and other delicacies from getting soggy. This might involve creative presentation solutions, like covered trays or strategically placed serving stations that shield the food from the elements.

Staying Warm in a Cold Snap

A cold snap in the middle of summer can be unexpected, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. Here’s how we keep your guests cozy:

Patio Heaters and Fire Pits: These are great additions to an outdoor setup, providing warmth and a cozy ambiance. Imagine your guests gathering around a fire pit, toasting marshmallows, and enjoying the evening despite the chill.

Hot Beverages: Offering a selection of hot beverages is a wonderful way to keep your guests warm. A hot chocolate station can be a fun and interactive element, complete with marshmallows, whipped cream, and flavoured syrups. We can also ensure that tea and coffee are readily available throughout the event.

Menu Tweaks: If your original menu was designed for warm weather, we can adjust it to include more hearty and warming dishes. Think along the lines of mini shepherd’s pies, hot soup shooters, or warm bread rolls served with a variety of butters and spreads.

Flexibility is Key

The main thing to remember is to stay flexible and roll with the changes. We’re here to ensure that, regardless of the weather, your wedding day is nothing short of perfect. Our experience allows us to adapt quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your guests are comfortable and your food is served in the best possible condition.

We believe that the unpredictable British weather adds a unique charm to weddings. Embracing it with a well-thought-out plan can lead to some of the most memorable and beautiful moments of your life. From the unexpected beauty of a sun shower to the cozy warmth of a fire-lit evening, the possibilities are endless.

Are You Worried About the Weather on Your Big Day?

Rest assured, with our expertise and planning, we’ve got you covered—rain or shine! Our goal is to make sure that the only thing you have to focus on is celebrating your love and enjoying your special day. So, let the British weather do its thing, and let us handle the rest. Your perfect wedding day awaits, no matter what the forecast says.