2026 Wedding Catering Trends
As we step into 2026, weddings are continuing to evolve in exciting and meaningful ways. Couples are prioritising personal expression, sustainability and unforgettable guest experiences which of course, includes the food. At Cambridge Dining Co. we’re always staying ahead of the curve so your special day feels both timeless and trend-forward. Here’s a look at the biggest wedding trends of 2026 and how catering can play a delicious role in bringing your vision to life.
Immersive, Multi-Sensory Guest Experiences
Weddings are no longer one-size-fits-all. Couples in 2026 are crafting entire experiences from soundscapes and scent stations to interactive food presentations. Think creative dishes being finished off tableside, staff shaking up personalised cocktails or even theatrical chef led food stations.
How can we bring it to life? Our customisable live food bars allow guests to engage directly with the culinary experience, making your reception feel like a five-star event.
Global Flavors with Local Sourcing
Cultural fusion is in and it’s delicious. Couples are blending their heritage, travels, and personal tastes into menus that tell a story. But with an eye toward sustainability, they’re also asking for ingredients that are fresh and locally sourced.
Our approach? We craft globally inspired menus with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring both authenticity and sustainability. From Vietnamese sandwiches to Mexican Beef Shin Tacos, we’ll bring your favourite flavours to life, whether you want a formal sit-down meal or evening street food station.
The Rise of Elevated Brunch Weddings
Forget the evening affair. In 2026, daytime weddings, especially brunch weddings are surging in popularity. They’re chic, cheerful, and often a bit more budget-friendly. Plus, who doesn’t love a mimosa bar and gourmet waffles?
What we can offer? Artisanal pastries, a full fry up, build-your-own crepe stations and chef-crafted egg dishes that will turn your morning celebration into a standout event.
Plant-Forward Menus (That Meat-Eaters Love Too)
Plant-based eating isn’t a trend anymore, it’s a movement but in 2026, the focus is less about restriction and more about showcasing vibrant, creative vegetable-forward dishes that impress every guest.
Signature dishes: From Salt Baked Celeriac, Burnt Pear, Hazelnut & Apple Caramel (pictured) to Squash, Pine Nut & Quince Pithivier, Mushroom Marmalade & Mushroom Bisque, our innovative plant-forward options are designed to delight guests of all dietary preferences without sacrificing flavour or flair.
Intimate Celebrations with Luxurious Touches
Micro-weddings and elopements are still going strong, but with a twist, thanks to fewer guests and more indulgence. Couples are investing in high-quality catering, curated wine pairings, and plated multi-course meals to create unforgettable memories for a smaller crowd.
Luxury in every bite. Our bespoke tasting menus and wine pairings are perfect for smaller celebrations that deserve a big impression.
Zero-Waste & Eco-Conscious Catering
Just like this year, couples are getting serious about sustainability in 2026 and that means reducing food waste, using compostable or reusable tableware, and working with vendors who share their values.
Our promise? We offer sustainable catering practices including compostable packaging, donation of leftovers to local shelters, and waste-minimising kitchen operations so you can celebrate responsibly.
Please take a look at what else we are doing as a company to help the environment by visiting our Sustainability page; https://www.cdc.events/sustainability/
