How to Cater for Dietary Requirements at Weddings and Parties
How to Cater for Dietary Requirements at Weddings and Parties
Planning food for your wedding, work shout, or special celebration is exciting—but it can also feel a little daunting when you think about dietary requirements. Whether it’s allergies, intolerances, or lifestyle choices, the goal is the same: you want everyone to feel included and well-fed. The good news? With a little planning (and the right caterers), it’s totally manageable.
Build in Variety
A great event menu naturally includes variety. Think grazing tables with colourful spreads, plenty of veggie options, and dishes that suit both meat-eaters and plant-based guests. With our catering options—breakfast, antipasto, high tea, hot finger food, dinner, desserts, or a mix of everything—there’s something for everyone. And because we don’t have minimum quantities, you can order for 1 person or 100 people. The flexibility means every guest gets something that feels special, while you can relax knowing there’s a balance of flavours to please every palate.
Keep Communication Open
If you’ve got guests with specific needs—like coeliac, nut allergies, or vegan diets—chat with us about how to keep things safe and delicious. We’ll guide you on cross-contamination, alternative ingredients, and clear labelling so guests know exactly what’s available without needing to ask. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference, helping guests feel thought of and valued rather than singled out.
Work with What’s Local (and Personalised)
Otago and Southland are full of fresh, local produce that naturally fits many dietary needs. From seasonal fruit and veggies to gluten-free baking and dairy alternatives, we’ve got plenty of options right on our doorstep. And if you’ve got a theme in mind? We love creating menus that match—whether it’s a rustic picnic, elegant high tea, or a colourful birthday spread. Food should feel like part of the story of your day, not just what’s on the plate.
The Bottom Line
Catering for dietary requirements doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. By asking early, building variety, and working closely with your caterer, you can create a menu that’s thoughtful, inclusive, and memorable. At Lemon Pie, we love making sure every guest—no matter their needs—feels looked after and part of the celebration. With the right mix of creativity and care, the food becomes more than just a meal—it becomes a memory.
FAQs about dietary requirements at weddings and parties
Q: What if I don’t know all my guests’ dietary needs yet?
A: That’s totally fine. We can help you plan a balanced, flexible menu that naturally covers most common requirements—then fine-tune closer to the date.
Q: Do you charge extra for dietary-specific dishes?
A: Not necessarily. It depends on ingredients, but most of the time we can accommodate dietary needs within your existing menu and budget.
Q: How early should I let my caterer know about dietary requirements?
A: As soon as possible! Ideally when confirming numbers, so we can plan the best mix of dishes and ingredients.