Photo by Jenna Henderson Photography; Menu by Designs in Paper
From a wooden canvas and twine to husky greens and florals, refined rustic romance is quite literally written all over this menu, with an elegant but simplistic hand-written font.
Food & Drink
25 Creative Menu Designs That'll Get Your Guests' Mouths Watering
Updated on July 11, 2017
Make your menu look as good as the food tastes.
Menu designs are arguably one of the more underrated wedding décor details. It seems a trivial aspect in the midst of a beautiful tablescape that is so artfully and painstakingly planned, but it’s really anything but. So much attention goes into what’s on the menu that an equal amount of detail should go into giving guests a sneak preview of what’s in store. Besides, no table setting is really complete without a styled menu to provide a finishing touch to its look.
The ways you can jazz up a traditional paper menu are endless—elegant calligraphy, watercolor hues, gold embossing, and hand-painted illustrations all can add a personal, beautiful touch. You can also play around with shapes to lend it a specific style—geometric triangles or hexagons create a modern vibe, while a round outline isn’t without some whimsy. And don’t feel you have to be confined to paper—acrylics, paper bags, cutting boards, and even the table itself can offer a unique look.
But the table isn’t the only way to display the night’s fare—a large, single sign looks just as great and doubles as an unexpected décor statement. Try a wooden slab for some rustic goodness, a mirror for a regal effect, or a cascading banner topped with florals for a romantic feel. While opting for one menu is the perfect choice for a self-serve dinner—think food bar, food truck, or buffet style—that’s not to say it doesn’t work just as well for a sit-down dinner.
The choice depends on your wedding style and theme. A single black and white typography sign would be ideal for a minimalist wedding, whereas a linen printed menu at each place setting dreams up old world romance. Can’t decide on a style? These unique wedding menu ideas promise to drum up some inspiration.
Photo by Hunter Ryan Photo
A paper bag boasting hand calligraphy and baguette takes on Tuscan inspiration—the perfect way to send guests off to a cheese and wine cocktail hour.
Photo by Michelle Roller
Acrylic dinner menus feature hand-pressed wildflowers for a bit of retro ‘70s inspo with a contemporary twist.
Photo by Jenna Joseph Photography; Calligraphy by Twinkle and Toast; Event Design by Kelsey Rae Designs
This cutting board incorporates one of wedding’s hottest trends right now—marble. Featuring gilded calligraphy, it doubles as both a creative menu and plate charger.
Photo by Hazelwood Photo
Black may not be an immediate choice for paper goods, but when paired with gold scripted lettering, it’s all moody elegance.
Photo by Jose Villa; Design by Amber Moon Design
Square leather laser-cut menus have a masculine edge and rustic charm.
Photo by Jessica Cooper
Copper and rose gold details shine with a metallic finish, but none look quite as pretty as the sleek, modern menu taking center stage on a simple white plate.
Photo by Lilly Red Creative
Eco-friendly and unique, a menu printed directly on a wooden table has bohemian charm.
Photo by The Marions; Design by Kate Mullins Design
An opulent gilded mirror boasting the night’s fare is rich in vintage romance.
Photo by Heather Roth Fine Art Photography
An accordion style shape takes the traditional printed menu for an elegant spin, featuring a course per pleat.
Photo by Jessica Kay Photography
A simple white frame housing a linen board with graceful script makes for a timeless menu design.
Photo by Greg Finck
It’s back to basics with this simple menu design of raw wood, engraving, and angular shape that provides a contemporary edge, complementing the minimalist setting of organics and copper flatware.
Photo by Tiffany Roohani; Florals by The Little Branch; Tabletop Rentals by Casa de Perrin
Plum decadence and grand opulence are written all over this majestic tablescape created by Orange Blossom Special Events. A humble disc-shaped menu clever in messaging adds simplicity without distracting from the contrasting layers of plates and rich tablecloth by Luxe Linens beneath it.
Photo by Laura Murray Photography; Design by Casa de Perrin
Easels are meant for works of art, and this wooden menu sign is just that. A swag of husky hued flora and hand-drawn designs come together for soft elegance.
Photo by Mikaela Marie Photography
Fruits are big for tablescapes right now, so why not use it as menu inspiration? This creative piece takes its cues from a sweet peach, with a round shape, soft pink-orange watercolors, and artfully placed leaves.
Photo by Stephanie Sorensen
A tree stump transforms into a chalkboard for a hand-lettered woodland wedding menu. Paired with a weathered barrel and wild branches, it’s full of rustic charm. And can we just take a moment to revel in the idea that is a wedding taco bar!?
Photo by Sawyer Baird
A linen menu with scrawling calligraphy adds a dreamy touch to this tablescape, where bohemian meets old world romance in organic beauty and brass details.
Photo by Autumn Cutaia Photography; Design by Whimsy Design Studio
A slender banner menu display gracing a wooden door and topped with a rose garland makes for one eye-catching statement piece.
Photo by Heather Roth Fine Art Photography
Geometric shapes always make things more fun. A triangular menu brings a modern touch, complementing polygon plates.
Photo by Anna Kim Photography
This DIY menu of wooden planks and tropical flora has a laidback charm.
Photo by Heather Waraksa
An artisanal style menu of engraved wood is only the perfect choice for an artisanal cheese menu. Did we mention how much we love the idea of a cheese station for a Tuscan-inspired wedding?
Photo by Katie Hoss
A jewel tone print of palm leaves and king protea lends this menu a splash of tropical whimsy and Palm Springs vibes.
Photo by Millie Hollman Photography
Shades of grey have a gorgeous effect in watercolor swirls, splashed with gold metallic for a hint of modern sophistication.
Photo by Madeline Druce
An oversized white menu adorned with driftwood and a scattering of seashells and coral is all coastal elegance.
Photo by Marion Heurteboust
Handwritten on beige cardstock, this café reminiscent menu has an effortless appeal.
Related Video
Ashley & Mike | La Quinta, CA
Studio 205 Films shot Ashley and Mike's formal fall wedding at the La Quinta Resort in La Quinta, California. Watch their beautiful details, including classic pink-and-white roses and peonies, and a glowing reception space, come to life.
Powered by