Quick Answer

Start your wedding menu card wording with a warm welcome line, list each course with its dish name and key ingredients, and end with a note about dietary needs or the bar service. Keep it concise and match the tone of your wedding stationery suite.

Why Wording Matters for Your Menu Card

Your wedding menu card does more than list food. It sets the tone for the meal and reinforces your wedding style. For a modern, minimal wedding, short descriptions and clean typography work best. For a formal affair, you might include full course names and wine pairings.

One common mistake is overcrowding the card. Guests only need to know what each course is and any major allergens. Save the chef's backstory for a separate card or sign.

When to Keep It Simple

If you're serving a plated dinner with limited choices, a simple list of courses is enough. For example: "First Course: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup" followed by the entrée and dessert. This keeps the card readable and elegant.

For buffet or family-style meals, consider grouping dishes by station or category (e.g., "Salads," "Mains," "Sides") rather than listing every single item. Guests appreciate clarity over detail.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Menu Card Wording

What should I include on a wedding menu card?

Include a welcome line (e.g., "Tonight's Dinner" or "Reception Menu"), each course name, a brief description of the dish (protein, sauce, key side), and a note about dietary restrictions or bar service if space allows. Skip lengthy backstories or chef bios.

How do I word a menu for a plated dinner?

List courses in the order they are served: Appetizer, Soup/Salad, Entrée, Dessert. For each course, write the dish name and a short description. Example: "Pan-Seared Salmon with lemon butter sauce, asparagus, and roasted potatoes." If guests choose between options at the table, note the choice on the card (e.g., "Choice of Salmon or Filet Mignon").

Should I include prices on a wedding menu card?

No. Wedding menu cards are for guests, not for billing. Leave prices off entirely. If you have a cash bar, include a separate sign at the bar or a note at the bottom of the menu such as "Bar available for individual purchases."

How do I indicate dietary restrictions?

Use small icons or abbreviations next to each dish (GF for gluten-free, V for vegetarian, VG for vegan). Alternatively, include a line at the bottom: "Please inform your server of any allergies." Avoid listing every ingredient. If you have many guests with allergies, consider a separate dietary card at each place setting.

What is the best font size for a menu card?

Use at least 10-12 point for the main text so guests can read it easily in dim reception lighting. Headings can be larger (14-18 point). Avoid script fonts for the dish descriptions; reserve them for the header or couple's names.

Menu Card Design Options

  • Modern Wedding Menus | The Hannah: Modern wedding menus designed for the bride who wants elegant touches throughout. If your wedding has a modern, cohesive look, pairing your menu card with the full Hannah Stationery Suite creates a polished, unified feel for guests.

    Modern Wedding Menus | The Hannah

    Modern Wedding Menus | The Hannah