If you’ve been to a wedding before, chances are that you’ve had a wedding breakfast.
And if you’re now racking your brain trying to remember which morning wedding you attended, or the one where you were served granola, yoghurt and a builder’s tea — let us stop you right there.
A wedding breakfast isn’t actually a breakfast meal, nor is it served in the morning. So what is it, and why does it matter? We’ve explained everything below.
Contents
What is a wedding breakfast?
Why is it called a wedding breakfast?
What’s the difference between a wedding breakfast and reception?
What food is served at a wedding breakfast?
What time is a wedding breakfast?
How long does a wedding breakfast last?
Wedding breakfast ideas
Your wedding breakfast
What is a wedding breakfast?
The wedding breakfast is the meal you and your guests enjoy after the ceremony is finished.
And despite its name, classic breakfast fare isn’t typically served (unless you and your partner specifically request a full English).
Whatever you choose to serve, the meal itself is your wedding breakfast. It can be a three-course meal while speeches are happening, a selection of street food trucks, a long table full of different pizzas, or anything else you want.
Why is it called a wedding breakfast?
The term is thought to date back to the pre-reformation era (16th century-ish). Back then, weddings were all officiated by priests as part of a Christian mass. The couple getting married would actually fast before the ceremony so that they could receive the holy communion.
After they’d tied the knot, the priest would then bless some food — which was usually cakes and wine — for everyone to enjoy. The newlyweds would literally be breaking their fast with this meal: hence the term, “wedding breakfast”.
Even though weddings have changed a lot since the 16th century, some people still like to use the term. And it does still kind of make sense: your wedding breakfast is the first meal you and your partner will eat together as a married couple.
What’s the difference between a wedding breakfast and reception?
Your wedding breakfast is the meal you eat with your guests right after your wedding ceremony. Whereas the reception is the entire celebration that follows the ceremony: it includes the meal, entertainment, dancing, cocktails, late-night snacks, and anything else you have planned.
What food is served at a wedding breakfast?
Whatever you like! A seated, three-course meal is probably the most popular choice, but it’s your day so anything goes. If you want to have food trucks, sharing boards, British classics, comfort food, or even an actual breakfast—it’s totally up to you and your partner.
What time is a wedding breakfast?
It’s typically held after your ceremony is finished. Usually, there will be a short break between the ceremony and the meal, where your guests can have a drink and enjoy some canapés. This is also a great opportunity for a costume change, if you’re so inclined.
To give you an example: a ceremony starting at 2pm might have a wedding breakfast begin at around 6pm. Your schedule will also depend on how the day is structured. If you’ve got a band booked for 8pm, you’ll probably want to have people fed and ready to dance by then.
How long does a wedding breakfast last?
Again, that’s entirely up to you. But to give you an idea: a three-course meal might take around two and a half hours, including time for speeches.
Wedding breakfast ideas
But perhaps more importantly: what should your wedding breakfast look like? Again, it’s completely your choice. Your day is as unique as you are, and you should go for something that captures your tastes as well as the style and vibe of your celebration.
We host a lovely wedding here at Bradmore House and we’ve helped plenty of couples put together their perfect wedding menu. To help get you inspired, here are the most popular options.
Plated three-course menu
The wedding breakfast is a main feature of most celebrations. After all, who doesn’t love sharing a delicious meal with their new spouse and loved ones?
And to really make it an event, many people opt for a three-course menu. Speeches will often happen between courses as well. Some couples also have games throughout the meal: for example, you might play the famous wedding shoe game, where you and your partner sit back-to-back while holding a shoe in each hand. You’ll be asked questions about your relationship and each other and will lift a shoe to indicate your answer. It can be a lot of fun!
Now, on to the food. At Kindred, you have the option to create a menu with two starters, three mains, and two desserts for your guests to choose from. And, of course, we can cater to dietary requirements for individual guests. Learn more about our wedding menu options.
Family-style feasting
Or you could go family style, where big plates of food are put onto the tables and your guests can serve themselves. This way, guests can choose exactly what, and how much, they want to eat.
We offer the option to choose one meat and one vegetarian main, which are served with sides to share. Both starters and desserts are served on big sharing boards, so your guests can try a bit of everything.
A family-style service can be a lovely way to bring guests together while setting a relaxed, warm, and communal atmosphere.
Your wedding breakfast
Choosing your wedding menu is an important decision. But have you thought about the venue where it will be served?
Kindred is a Grade II listed building right in the heart of West London, full of charming spaces to suit any style of celebration. Our warm and sophisticated top floor is perfect for close gatherings, while our grand and airy Hall is a brilliant spot for a bigger party.
We believe that wedding planning is supposed to be fun and joyful—and we’re here to handle the stress so you can enjoy the moment.
Take a look at our wedding brochure to learn about how we could bring your dream day to life, or get in touch with our friendly team
