Wedding Catering: What’s a Wedding Breakfast, and How Do You Choose the Right Menu?

When it comes to planning your wedding, there’s one question that often gets asked quietly…
“What exactly is a wedding breakfast?”

Let’s clear it up.

Despite the name, the wedding breakfast has nothing to do with eggs and bacon (unless you want it to!). The term simply means “the first meal you share as a married couple” — traditionally served after the ceremony, when the vows are said, the champagne is popped, and the nerves have (hopefully) settled.

But deciding what to serve at that meal?
That’s where it gets interesting.

At The Sitwell Arms Hotel, our wedding menus are a true celebration of flavour, local produce, and thoughtful presentation — from beautifully crafted canapés to hearty mains and indulgent desserts. And whether you're planning a three-course plated feast, a grazing table, or a relaxed buffet, we're here to help you create something personal, memorable, and absolutely delicious.

Here’s what to think about when planning your wedding catering:

1. Start with the mood of your day

Your food should reflect the kind of wedding you're having. Is it black tie and candlelight? A rustic garden party? A relaxed, joyful knees-up? Each style calls for something a little different.

A formal, sit-down meal might feature beautifully plated courses with classic flavours and rich sauces. A festival-style day might suit sharing boards, grazing tables or an outdoor BBQ. The key is matching your menu to your vibe — and keeping it cohesive throughout the day.

2. Balance tradition with personal taste

Think of your wedding menu as your chance to tell a little story. Maybe you both love seafood (start with king prawns). Maybe you're vegetarian and want your guests to see how good plant-based food can be. Maybe your nan's apple crumble inspired the dessert.

Whatever the details, the best menus feel curated — not generic. At The Sitwell Arms, couples often pick dishes that reflect them — and our chefs are always on hand to help create a menu that brings your favourite flavours to life.

3. Don’t underestimate the humble canapé

Those tiny bites you serve while photos are happening and drinks are flowing? They’re gold dust. A well-chosen canapé menu keeps guests satisfied and stops the prosecco from going straight to their heads.

We’re talking things like Tempura Prawns, Mini Naan with Chicken Tikka, Sun-Blushed Tomato Parmesan Swirls, and even Mini Cheeseburgers on Crostini — elegant, exciting, and just the thing to get everyone smiling (and Instagramming).

4. Keep dietary needs in mind — and taste everything

There’s no such thing as one-size-fits-all when it comes to food. You’ll likely have a few guests who are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergic to nuts — and the last thing you want is someone feeling forgotten.

We’ll walk you through the options so everyone is well looked after — and we always recommend a tasting session, where you can try out a selection of dishes before finalising your menu. It’s not just practical — it’s one of the most fun parts of the planning process.

5. Evening food: Keep the energy going!

After hours of dancing, speeches and a few drinks, your guests will be hungry again. Evening food isn’t just a nice touch — it’s a necessity.

From a lavish carvery with garlic & thyme roasted beef and beer buns, to salads, cheese boards, and bite-sized desserts, your evening buffet is a chance to have a bit more fun. It’s hearty, it’s sociable, and it sends your guests home full, happy, and raving about the day.

In short? Food is a love language.

Whether you’re feeding 40 or 140, your wedding menu tells your guests: we thought about you. It sets the tone, brings people together, and creates shared memories that linger long after the final toast.

At The Sitwell Arms Hotel, we treat catering as one of the most important parts of your day — and one of the most joyful. From your first taste to your last bite, we’ll make sure it’s beautifully prepared, perfectly timed, and deeply satisfying.

Ready to start planning your wedding feast?
Book a wedding show round and let’s talk all things flavours, favourites, and foodie dreams.

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01246 435226

The Sitwell Arms Hotel, 39 Station Road, Renishaw, Derbyshire, S21 3WF

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