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A helpful guide
Not only do you get to explore a Grade I listed stately home, you also sample a bespoke delicious menu; it’s practically the perfect date night! Brides and Grooms often ask "why do we need to do a tasting?" and "what are we tasting it for?". Here is a helpful guide for couples on this special part of their wedding journey.
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Balance is key
A successful wedding has balance and the same rule applies for your first meal as a married couple. When choosing your options for your wedding breakfast, the key points are that you of course enjoy them and that the courses compliment each other. You may be reading this unsure of what starter will compliment your main course, this is where your coordinator can guide you through the menu to help you find the best options for your special day. If you have questions regarding your menu, which could be anything from garnishes to dietary requirements, your wedding coordinator will discuss your menu with the chefs who will be able to offer great expertise and advice.
Make the most of the day
We allow approximately two hours for a menu tasting, however there is nothing stopping you from taking a day and spending it at Ashridge House. I usually recommend for couples to make themselves comfortable in the Wyatt Lounge and meet all their suppliers on their menu tasting day. This is an effective way to introduce your florist, photographer/videographers, DJ etc to the venue and discuss all your ideas about set-up and timings. Your coordinator will be close by if you have any questions.
What should I taste and why
A menu tasting is to ensure that your seal of approval is given across all courses. At an Ashridge House menu tasting we provide two options per course, therefore you may not want to use an option for a dish you won’t be eating. Our recommendation is to try whatever you will want on your wedding day. After all, the first meal as an officially married couple needs to be one that is remembered well!
Cutlery, glassware, and china
A beautiful way to weave your theme into your wedding is by bringing in different styles of plates, cutlery, glassware, and napkins! Your menu tasting is the perfect time to trial run what your wedding breakfast tables will look like and if they work with the type of service Ashridge House delivers. In order to make this happen, the items just need to be with your coordinator one week prior to your menu tasting.