Divine Decorum: Expert Advice on how to Avoid Celebration Chaos

Q: A lot of my wedding guests have different dietary restrictions. How can I accommodate all of my vegetarian and gluten-free friends and family without spending a fortune on my reception dinner?

-Ami, Wilmette, IL

A: These days it seems as if almost everyone has some kind of allergy or restrictive food preference (e.g. gluten intolerance, vegetarian, vegan, nut allergies—dieting), but it is definitely possible accommodate everyone without burning through your wedding budget. One of the most efficient ways to satisfy your guests is to create one restricted meal that will meet the needs of your entire wedding party. Depending on the food restrictions and preferences present, it may be beneficial to offer the option of a vegetarian dish that is also gluten-free, or vegan dish that is also dairy-free (which already happen to coincide). By combining the restrictions into fewer meals (or just one), you will be able to accommodate everyone without added stress for your chef and your wallet. 

Q: My husband and I are on a tight budget, but we are also planning on hosting a large wedding (300+ people). Would it be appropriate to have a cash bar?

-Erin, Lake Zurich, IL

A: Back in college, dorm and apartment parties labeled “BYOB” may have been the norm, but as marrying adults, it is not usually a good idea to expect your guests to pay for their own refreshments at such a formal event. Instead of a cash bar, consider a “limited” bar, which consists of fewer options such as soda, wine and champagne for the toast. Also, some venues require that you sign a contract prohibiting you from providing your own alcohol, but if permissible, buying your own (wholesale preferably) will cost you less and allow you to supply more personally favorable options.

Q: My boyfriend and I just got engaged! We couldn’t be more utterly excited. Here’s the catch: we have decided we are having a civil union ceremony downtown, but what do we do about placement of the bridesmaids and groomsmen? Should we still have males on one side and females on the other?

-James, Northbrook, IL

A: Of course not! Although customary, there is no rule that states it is absolutely imperative to split up the wedding party by gender (that goes for traditional weddings, too). If you have separate groups of friends, place them on either side accordingly; however, chances are your friends will be mutual, so the placement of where each person stands is ultimately your decision. At the end of the day, they are there to support you both as a couple. When it comes to weddings and partnerships, apply the rules that fit your own lifestyle!

Email Christina@christinacurrieevents.com to have your questions answered!