Food and wine: How to create a perfect marriage

(ARA) - Weddings are one of life's most celebrated occasions. For brides- and grooms-to-be and their families, an incredible amount of creativity and planning is poured into this all-important day: from the wedding gown to the ceremony, from the invitations and flowers to the wedding cake itself. One of the most-remembered details is what guests are served, so the wedding menu should reflect the couple-to-be's unique style and personality.

Aida Mollenkamp, host of the popular Food Network show "Ask Aida" says, "The food you serve should be like your dress - reflect you and fit you like a glove - so, if you prefer a cupcake tower to a cake, go for it!"

Tips for a memorable wedding menu

* Find your inspiration. Couples should think back on their relationship, and choose a meaningful place or a time that will inspire their food and wine choices.

* Indulge. This is a celebration so forget about calories and choose the food and wine that truly reflects the couple.

* But don't lose yourself. Remember, the wedding day is supposed to reflect who the bride and groom are. If they aren't fans of foie gras and caviar, now is not the time to serve it.

* Personalize. Consider displaying menus at each place setting that describe the couple's food and wine pairings - and include anecdotes for why they were chosen.

* Last all night. It's a marathon to make it from the ceremony to the reception for the bride and groom and their guests. Make sure the food is substantial enough to keep everyone filled, yet light enough that they don't slip into a groggy fog.

* Ah, dessert. It might be your guests' favorite course, and for a wedding, it can truly be a showpiece. Let the dessert reflect the couple's sweet tooth, and remember Riesling is a lovely accompaniment to most wedding desserts.

David Mirassou, sixth-generation of America's oldest winemaking family agrees. "Riesling is a delicious wine pairing option for wedding desserts. It may also help a couple's budget too, because it can be paired with both the first and main courses, as well as dessert."

For more wedding inspiration, as well as video tips, Aida's recipes and David's food and wine pairings, visit Mirassou.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent