13 Ways to Wow Guests at Your Wedding or Party with 2025 Catering Trends

In our Party and Wedding Trend predictions for 2025, we note the increase in “maximalist tabletops, blending patterns and hues with abandon.” We are delighted that the same is happening on menus as well, with plated meals that feature color and texture galore.

The accomplished team at Marcia Selden Catering & Events took inspiration from the rich art around them for the fare for this colorful opening party at The Bruce Museum. Lucky guests had every sense delighted.

This vibrant affair for event professionals from around the country was an unforgettable evening with an “electric forest” theme.

Biscuits & Berries Catering leaned into creative and colorful presentations with delicious small bites hanging in the neon trees, smoked short ribs “McBiscuit meals” served from a funky food truck, and a burrata and charred venison hanging wall. Then a roaming poke cart hit the scene, followed by a cake pop cart and a dessert claw machine (yes, you read that right).

When it comes to serving delectable food in beautiful ways, CGA Catering (Chef Gaurav Anand) excels. From composed plates to buffets, this team ensures that every diverse offering is as beautiful to behold as it is wonderful to eat.

For this luxury Four Seasons wedding, dessert was elevated by edible sauces, berries, and even gold foil.

The sober curious movement is still going strong and mocktails are getting more complex and curated.

Suzanne Meredith, Vice President of Sales for Laurence Craig Catering, shares, “Couples want options that are just as dynamic, beautiful, and fun without the headaches the next day. We want the guests to say ‘Ooh, no way this doesn’t have booze, it’s amazing!’”

“We’re not only featuring signature mocktails at our bar service but also dedicating entire bars to them at events,” shares The Catered Affair’s Holly Safford, who also serves on the Trends Council of Elite Catering + Event Professionals (ECEP).

She continues, “Bartenders are leveraging a variety of elegant non-alcoholic spirits such as Seedlip Citrus, Ritual Zero-Proof, and Wilderton Bittersweet Aperitivo to craft unique drinks.” 

A “cocktail party wedding reception” is a celebration where guests mingle freely around the venue, enjoying small bites (hors d’oeuvres) and drinks from a bar, rather than sitting at assigned tables for a formal meal. It creates a more relaxed and interactive atmosphere for socializing with everyone present.

Kori Carter Gillespie, Director of Brand Marketing for The Catered Affair, shares of the trend, “An evening filled with endless food, drinks, and revelry is a top priority — with party-centric weddings rising for 2025.”

“Foraged menus highlighting the seasonality of the area and time of year are growing in popularity. Every talented chef I have worked beside always knows to let the food speak for itself,” says Suzanne Meredith of Laurence Craig Catering

Meredith shares a quote from Chef Alice Waters (famous for her philosophy of using locally-grown organic ingredients and her advocacy of sustainable agriculture):”A good tomato is a product of the variety and where it’s grown and how it’s picked.”

Butter and Vine customized their menu to express autumnal vibes at this Chicago wedding in the most beautiful way.

The visionary team brought fall to every plate and every bite, underscoring the freshness of the local fare from curated hors d’oeuvres to a meal that put the gifts of the season front and center.

The Cup Bearer has provided cocktail service for many of PartySlate’s corporate gatherings, and they always wow.

With a focus on fresh, natural ingredients, interesting spirits, and a “show” with each cocktail preparation, this team can execute any theme, palette, or flavor profile you desire. The company’s own 10th anniversary featured crisp colorful cocktails in unique glassware. 

Magdalena’s Catering & Events brought dinner and a show to this Texas wedding with the spectacle of their paella preparation.

The dish, made in a large paellera, is perfect for serving a large number of people in style and we love to see this tradition continue at events.

“In 2025, interactive experiences are still a top choice for our clients at events. Action stations are a big hit, providing a fun way to keep everyone engaged and entertained—like flambé stations, which let guests watch our chefs creating flaming desserts or savory dishes adding a touch of excitement! These stations become like mini events within the greater event,” shares Julie Walter of Paramount Events.

Haute Chefs LA, renowned for their bespoke culinary experiences and exceptional event services, understood the assignment for this camp-themed experience for luxury fashion brand Dior.

In addition to grilling rib-in chops, they added fresh vegetables and tons of herbs to the barbecue for rich flavors at this ranch-set event.

“We’re noticing that food ingredients are serving multiple purposes beyond just being consumed,” says Julie Walter of Paramount Events.

“For example, we love using extra ingredients as food station décor to highlight menu ingredients, but also as creative ways to decorating passing trays such as using the stem of a pineapple as a garnish for a beach-themed soiree or tying an hors d’oeuvre with scallions instead of a toothpick.”

CRATEFUL Catering was selected to cater the book launch of The Kitchen Cookbook, from the restaurant that helped pioneer the farm-to-table movement.

Fittingly, CRATEFUL curated fresh displays that incorporated the beautiful ingredients in each dish, adding color and natural beauty at every turn.

ONTHEMARC Events is known for their deliberate planning, warm service, and consistent culinary excellence.

We love their creativity in marrying form and function by utilizing a Himalayan salt tray for passed service at this tented wedding. The pink-tinged slab offered beauty and extra flavor during cocktail hour.

“Branding continues to be crucial, with companies seeking new ways to weave their brand identities and tone into food and beverage offerings. For example, we’ve created custom cocktails that reflect a company’s color palette or themed dishes that resonate with their mission statement. It really adds a personal touch!” shares, Julie Walter, Sales Manager for Paramount Events

The talented team at Gourmet Caterers Boston is celebrated for their commitment to excellence, versatility, and ability to create memorable experiences through outstanding food and service.

Here, they prepared for Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations with “Year of the Wood Dragon” custom-designed, printed cookies.

Rachel Heuermann, Director of Full-Service Catering with Paramount Events, says, “Sustainability is becoming more important for couples planning their big day. They want their values reflected in their events, which is why they enjoy working with us. We offer on-site composting and food donation. We help them share their efforts with guests—like highlighting local farms for ingredients or letting everyone know that leftover food will be donated to nonprofits. Couples love showing how their celebrations can make a positive impact.

“Looking ahead to 2025, it’s exciting to see that some trends from 2024 are sticking around—especially sustainability! It’s great to see more clients becoming environmentally conscious and wanting eco-friendly options.”

“Sustainability is a growing priority for clients, leading to increased demand for green practices, such as sourcing local ingredients and reducing food waste. At M Culinary, we’re actively addressing this by partnering with Waste Not, a nonprofit food rescue organization. We collect leftover, unserved food post-event, and Waste Not distributes it to shelters helping those facing food insecurity. In 2024, we’re on track to rescue over 50,000 pounds of food, which equates to feeding more than 75,000 Arizonans,” says Michael Stavros, VP of Business Development with M Culinary Concepts.

“Vegan and inclusive menus are still super popular, which ensures everyone can enjoy the food. These menus not only taste amazing but also align with our clients’ values,” says Sales Manager Grace Malafronte of Paramount Events.

Michael Stavros with M Culinary Concepts, says, “A key trend shaping the future of event catering is the rise of health-conscious menus. Plant-based, gluten-free, and low-calorie options are increasingly in demand, with a growing interest in sustainable seafood alternatives and plant-based charcuterie.”

“Caterers are focusing on inclusivity, designing menus that accommodate diverse dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and allergen-friendly options,” says Stavros of M Culinary Concepts.

“Beyond dietary considerations, accessibility is a growing focus, ensuring that events are inclusive for guests with disabilities or special needs. This shift toward inclusivity is driving innovation in both menu design and service offerings, ensuring that all guests feel welcome and catered to,” he says.

“We believe that sharable plates and fusion foods will be a growing trend in event catering. As people become more eager to explore global flavors, fusion cuisine offers a way to connect different cultures and create memorable dining experiences!” shares Madhoo Seth, Chef and Owner of Italic Catering.

“For those who have traveled or dream of traveling, food is often tied to personal memories and emotions, and fusion dishes allow guests to revisit or discover new cultural connections, all while enjoying the communal aspect of shared plates! For over 20 years our motto has been: We Cook in Your Language!”

Stavros with M Culinary Concepts, says, “In the Southwest, there is a noticeable trend toward incorporating indigenous and heritage ingredients. Heirloom grains, squashes, and root vegetables are gaining popularity as clients look for authentic regional flavors.

“Locally-inspired dishes, such as those made with masa, gourds, fry bread, chile-based sauces, and smoked meats, are trending as guests seek more culturally significant and locally sourced meals.”

There are many ways to serve meals en masse at events, from buffets to fully-plated dishes, but none are as warm or evoke togetherness like family-style service.

Peppers Artful Events shows that beautiful and creative plating still has a place on passed-dish tabletops at this whimsical wedding.

Catering by Design brought their creativity to this non-profit gala, with a chef making fresh ravioli onsite and their signature “smoke station” presented upon a rotating table.

We were wowed at how they captured the galactic theming of the event with serving vessels that looked futuristic and the modern lettering on their trays. It’s no wonder that the Denver-based catering and décor company that has won numerous awards and garnered international recognition.

“Gone are the days of the traditional wedding cake,” says Suzanne Meredith of Laurence Craig Catering. “From millefoglie to mini Creamsicles with Fruity Pebbles, it’s personal. Couples no longer feel the need to follow the traditional of century past. That is true from the dress, to the menu, and most recently the cake cutting tradition.”

“Bold and colorful wedding cakes are on a rise! After going through a period where wedding cakes became an afterthought, they are coming back with a vengeance. Be on the lookout for bright architectural wedding cakes in 2025,” says Bobby Perino, Vice President, MAX Ultimate Food.

This vision in gold from the team at Foodstuffs Events & Catering features loads of texture, adding glamour to this Chicago wedding.

The caterer didn’t stop there, they also curated an epic dessert display featuring towers of sweet treats.

This birthday party captured the charm of Parisian couture, with nods to fashion galore, including issuing “Coco Bucks” to guests to buy luxe goodies.

Brightside Coffee Bar‘s charming coffee cart, inspired by Ralph’s Coffee, featured custom-printed teddy bears which added a touch of warmth and whimsy to the festivities. Plus, each child leaving with a cuddly companion.

Dolce & Gelato Catering Inc. boast a fleet of espresso trucks, imported directly from Italy, to provide full-service espresso and cappuccino bars.

Their versatile trucks can be customized to offer a variety of culinary delights, including fresh-made mozzarella stations, prosciutto slicing stations or, like at this wedding, coffee and gelato service.