{"id":4365,"date":"2015-05-15T16:37:27","date_gmt":"2015-05-15T06:37:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/paperlust.co\/blog\/?p=4365"},"modified":"2026-08-12T15:52:43","modified_gmt":"2026-08-12T05:52:43","slug":"the-menu-card-wording","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/paperlust.co\/blog\/the-menu-card-wording\/","title":{"rendered":"Menu Card Wording: Formal Conventions and 20+ Examples"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>\n#post-4365 .entry-content p,\n#post-4365 .entry-content li { font-size: 20px; line-height: 1.7; margin-bottom: 20px; }\n#post-4365 .entry-content h2 { text-transform: none !important; font-size: 34px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 1.3; margin-top: 56px; margin-bottom: 16px; }\n#post-4365 .entry-content h3 { text-transform: none !important; font-size: 22px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 1.3; font-weight: 600; margin-top: 32px; margin-bottom: 12px; }\n#post-4365 .entry-content table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 18px; margin: 28px 0; }\n#post-4365 .entry-content th { background: #1a1a1a; color: #fff; padding: 11px 16px; text-align: left; border-bottom: 2px solid #ddd; }\n#post-4365 .entry-content td { padding: 11px 16px; border-bottom: 1px solid #eee; }\n#post-4365 .entry-content tr:nth-child(even) td { background: #f9f9f9; }\n#post-4365 .entry-content tr:nth-child(odd) td { background: #fff; }\n<\/style>\n\n<div data-locale-router=\"v1\" style=\"background:#f8f6f3;border-left:4px solid #c9a96e;padding:16px 20px;margin:24px 0;font-size:16px;\">\nBrowse menu cards for your event: <a href=\"\/us\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">United States<\/a> | <a href=\"\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">Australia<\/a> | <a href=\"\/gb\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">United Kingdom<\/a> | <a href=\"\/ca\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">Canada<\/a> | <a href=\"\/nz\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">New Zealand<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\nThere is a little bit of contention when it comes to the <a href=\"\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">wedding menu card<\/a>. In our <a href=\"https:\/\/paperlust.co\/blog\/dos-and-donts-of-wedding-invitations\/\">Wedding Invitation Do&#8217;s and Don&#8217;ts<\/a>, we suggest that you don&#8217;t include a menu with your invitations. Maybe have space to indicate food requirements on the RSVP card, but leave the menu for the day itself. Which leaves the question: what&#8217;s the best menu card wording? It might help to start by <a href=\"https:\/\/paperlust.co\/blog\/wedding-invitation-wording-that-tricky-host-line\/\">Finding Your Wedding Invitation Wording Style the Easy Way<\/a> and matching the menu card wording to your invitation suite.\n\n<div data-canon=\"tldr-v1\" style=\"background:#f8f6f3;border-left:4px solid #c9a96e;padding:24px 28px;margin:32px 0;border-radius:2px;\">\n  <strong style=\"font-size:18px;display:block;margin-bottom:12px;\">At a glance<\/strong>\n  <ul style=\"margin:0;padding-left:20px;\">\n    <li>Match your menu card tone to your invitation style: formal language for black-tie, relaxed for casual events.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Capitalize only proper nouns<\/strong> on menu cards (e.g., &#8220;Caesar salad,&#8221; not &#8220;Caesar Salad&#8221;).<\/li>\n    <li>Plated menus list courses in order of service; buffet menus use station headings or a combined list.<\/li>\n    <li>Use standardized dietary symbols (V, VG, GF, N) with a key at the bottom of each card.<\/li>\n    <li>Non-wedding events (rehearsal dinners, corporate, holiday parties) follow the same core conventions, with tone adjusted to the occasion.<\/li>\n    <li>Browse <a href=\"\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">Paperlust wedding menu cards<\/a> with designer-assigned proofs in 1-2 business days.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2>The Basics<\/h2>\n\nMenu titled: Mr and Mrs (optional)<br>\nDate (optional)<br>\nAppetizers<br>\nEntree<br>\nDessert<br>\nBeverages\n\n<p style=\"text-align:center;margin:32px auto;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/blogcdn.paperlust.co\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/the-menu-card-wording-inl1.jpeg\" alt=\"Close-up of a formal wedding menu card with elegant calligraphy typography laid flat on a table setting\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" style=\"max-width:100%;height:auto;display:inline-block;border-radius:4px;\" \/><\/p>\n\n<h2>Traditional Menu Card Wording<\/h2>\n\nTraditionally a wedding menu card includes a title with the couple&#8217;s names and sometimes the date. What follows is a succinct list of the appetizers, entree, and desserts. At the bottom, a list of refreshments is available in case guests need a reminder of what&#8217;s on offer.\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\nMr. &amp; Mrs. Anderson<br>\nJune 14, 2026<br><br>\n<em>Appetizer<\/em><br>\nShaved fig and prosciutto with honey drizzle<br><br>\n<em>Entree<\/em><br>\nPan-seared chicken with lemon caper butter<br>\nor<br>\nSlow-braised beef short rib with truffle jus<br><br>\n<em>Dessert<\/em><br>\nVanilla panna cotta with berry compote<br><br>\n<em>Beverages<\/em><br>\nHouse wines, sparkling water, soft drinks\n<\/div>\n\nWhere there is food, there is someone who wants to know exactly how their meal was prepared and presented. Play with that and use descriptive language you don&#8217;t have much use for on a regular Tuesday. The basics &#8211; appetizers, entree, dessert &#8211; have to be there, but make it a journey from the start of the night to your guest&#8217;s satisfied stomachs at the end of it. You might even dispense with the menu title for a more casual feel.\n\n<h2>Casual Menu Card Wording<\/h2>\n\nHere is where things get fun with your menu card wording. Maybe you don&#8217;t need the full title &#8211; we all know whose wedding we&#8217;re at. Take a little of the descriptive language from a food poetry approach, or keep it simple.\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<em>to start<\/em><br>\nlittle gems with shaved radish and green goddess<br><br>\n<em>the good part<\/em><br>\nbraised lamb shoulder with herbed polenta<br>\nroasted eggplant with whipped feta (V)<br><br>\n<em>sweet things<\/em><br>\nlemon tart, clotted cream, candied lemon zest<br><br>\n<em>drinks all night<\/em><br>\nwines from our cellar, local beers, soft drinks\n<\/div>\n\nWhere there is fun, there is also the chance to get creative with illustrations and personal touches. Who says you can&#8217;t steal the formatting of your favorite neighborhood cafe? Think about the typeface and layout that feels most you, and let your menu card wording match the energy of the evening.\n\n<p style=\"text-align:center;margin:32px auto;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/blogcdn.paperlust.co\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/the-menu-card-wording-inl2.jpeg\" alt=\"Wedding menu cards styled on a rustic tablescape with dried flowers and linen napkins in a warm, earthy palette\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" style=\"max-width:100%;height:auto;display:inline-block;border-radius:4px;\" \/><\/p>\n\n<h2>Formal Menu Card Wording Conventions: Capitalization, Punctuation, and Typography<\/h2>\n\nGetting the small things right on a formal menu card shows attention to detail. These conventions apply whether you&#8217;re writing a wedding menu, rehearsal dinner menu, or gala dinner card.\n\n<h3>Capitalization rules<\/h3>\n\nThe most common mistake couples make is capitalizing every word in a dish name. Correct capitalization on a menu card follows the same rule as a sentence: only capitalize proper nouns and the first word of a line.\n\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;\"><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Correct<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Incorrect<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Why<\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr><td>Caesar salad<\/td><td>Caesar Salad<\/td><td>&#8220;salad&#8221; is a common noun; only &#8220;Caesar&#8221; is a proper noun<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td>Beef stroganoff<\/td><td>Beef Stroganoff<\/td><td>&#8220;stroganoff&#8221; is now treated as a common noun in most style guides<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td>Brussels sprouts<\/td><td>brussels sprouts<\/td><td>Named for the city Brussels; always capitalized<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td>Boeuf bourguignon<\/td><td>Boeuf Bourguignon<\/td><td>French: only capitalize proper geographic names<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td>Fettuccine alfredo<\/td><td>Fettuccine Alfredo<\/td><td>&#8220;alfredo&#8221; is now considered a common noun in American usage<\/td><\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<h3>French course names and italics<\/h3>\n\nOn very formal menus, French course headings are sometimes used and traditionally italicized. Use these only if the overall tone of your event warrants them &#8211; they sit beautifully on letterpress or flat foil menus, less so on casual digital-print cards.\n\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;\"><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">French Term<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Meaning<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">When to Use<\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr><td><em>Amuse-bouche<\/em><\/td><td>Single-bite appetizer from the kitchen<\/td><td>Black-tie, tasting menus<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><em>Hors d&#8217;oeuvre<\/em><\/td><td>Pre-dinner canapes or cocktail bites<\/td><td>Cocktail hour section<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><em>Entree<\/em><\/td><td>Main course (American usage)<\/td><td>All formality levels<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><em>Plat principal<\/em><\/td><td>Main course (French\/European usage)<\/td><td>Very formal or French-themed events<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><em>Mignardises<\/em><\/td><td>Petit fours or small sweet bites<\/td><td>Upscale tasting-style menus<\/td><\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<h3>Punctuation on menu cards<\/h3>\n\nKeep punctuation minimal and consistent:\n\n<ul>\n<li>No periods at the end of dish names or course headings.<\/li>\n<li>A comma may separate a dish name from its brief description: &#8220;Pan-seared halibut, lemon beurre blanc.&#8221;<\/li>\n<li>Parentheses or small superscript symbols work for dietary notation (see below).<\/li>\n<li>A centered dot or simple line may separate sections, but never overload with ornamental elements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3>Font and print method pairing<\/h3>\n\nYour wording choice should pair naturally with your print method. Highly descriptive, poetic wording reads best in a clean serif or script. Short, precise course listings suit both serif and modern sans-serif.\n\nFor a black-tie or formal affair, letterpress menu cards on 300gsm Wild Cotton or flat foil menus on 380gsm Premium stock bring a tactile quality that digital print alone cannot match. Browse <a href=\"\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\">Paperlust wedding menu cards<\/a> to see how different print methods complement each wording style.\n\n<p style=\"text-align:center;margin:32px auto;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/blogcdn.paperlust.co\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/the-menu-card-wording-inl3.jpeg\" alt=\"Flat lay of letterpress wedding menu cards showing debossed typography on thick cotton paper stock with gold ribbon detail\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" style=\"max-width:100%;height:auto;display:inline-block;border-radius:4px;\" \/><\/p>\n\n<h2>Buffet Station Menu Card Wording vs. Plated Menu Card Wording<\/h2>\n\nThe format of service changes everything about how you write your menu card. Plated and buffet menus have different goals, different placements, and different reading experiences for guests.\n\n<h3>Plated menu card wording<\/h3>\n\nFor a plated sit-down reception, each guest typically has a menu card at their place setting. The card lists courses in the order they will arrive. For pre-selected meals, the card may indicate which option each guest has chosen (often color-coded or marked with a small symbol on the card at the time of seating).\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<strong>Sarah &amp; James<\/strong><br>\nOctober 11, 2026<br><br>\n<em>First course<\/em><br>\nRoasted heirloom tomato soup with basil cream<br><br>\n<em>Main course<\/em><br>\nHerb-crusted lamb rack with rosemary jus <strong>(&#9679;)<\/strong><br>\nor<br>\nSaffron risotto with grilled asparagus and truffle oil (V, GF) <strong>(&#9679;)<\/strong><br><br>\n<em>Dessert<\/em><br>\nDark chocolate torte with vanilla bean ice cream<br>\nor<br>\nSeasonal fruit pavlova with chantilly cream (GF)<br><br>\n<em>Key: V = Vegetarian, GF = Gluten-Free<\/em><br>\n<em>Your entree selection is indicated by the dot on your card.<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<h3>Buffet station menu card wording<\/h3>\n\nFor a buffet, you have two main approaches. The first is a central menu card or printed poster listing all stations and their key dishes. The second is a small card or tent sign at each individual station naming the items on offer.\n\n<strong>Central buffet menu card (one per table):<\/strong>\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<strong>Dinner Buffet<\/strong><br><br>\n<em>Salad station<\/em><br>\nMixed greens with sherry vinaigrette<br>\nCaprese salad with fresh basil (V, GF)<br><br>\n<em>Carving station<\/em><br>\nSlow-roasted prime rib with au jus<br>\nHerb-crusted turkey breast<br><br>\n<em>Mains<\/em><br>\nRoasted salmon with dill and capers (GF)<br>\nThree-cheese tortellini with marinara (V)<br><br>\n<em>Sides<\/em><br>\nRoasted seasonal vegetables (V, GF)<br>\nGarlic mashed potatoes (V, GF)<br><br>\n<em>Dessert table<\/em><br>\nWedding cake, macarons, seasonal fruit platter<br><br>\n<em>V = Vegetarian, GF = Gluten-Free<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<strong>Individual station sign (small tent card):<\/strong>\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<strong>The Pasta Station<\/strong><br><br>\nPenne arrabbiata (V, GF)<br>\nFettuccine carbonara<br>\nRicotta-stuffed shells with roasted tomato sauce (V)<br><br>\n<em>Please let our staff know of any allergies.<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<h3>Quick comparison<\/h3>\n\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;\"><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Format<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Quantity needed<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Best placement<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Wording approach<\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr><td>Plated (per-guest)<\/td><td>1 per guest<\/td><td>Place setting<\/td><td>Courses in service order<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td>Buffet (per-table)<\/td><td>1-2 per table<\/td><td>Center of table<\/td><td>Stations, then items listed<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td>Buffet station sign<\/td><td>1 per station<\/td><td>At each food station<\/td><td>Station name, dish list, dietary symbols<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td>Cocktail hour card<\/td><td>1-2 per high table<\/td><td>Near food displays<\/td><td>Canape names, dietary icons<\/td><\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<h2>Dietary Notation on Menu Cards: V, VG, GF, and Other Options<\/h2>\n\nDietary notation on a menu card is one of the most practical things you can include. Guests with dietary needs will quietly and gratefully scan for these symbols without having to ask. The key is consistency and a clearly printed key.\n\n<h3>Standard dietary symbols<\/h3>\n\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;\"><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Symbol<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Meaning<\/th><th style=\"background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;padding:11px 16px;\">Notes<\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr><td><strong>V<\/strong><\/td><td>Vegetarian<\/td><td>May contain dairy and eggs<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><strong>VG<\/strong><\/td><td>Vegan<\/td><td>No animal products whatsoever<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><strong>GF<\/strong><\/td><td>Gluten-free<\/td><td>Note &#8220;prepared in a gluten-free kitchen&#8221; if applicable<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><strong>N<\/strong><\/td><td>Contains nuts<\/td><td>Important for allergy awareness<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><strong>DF<\/strong><\/td><td>Dairy-free<\/td><td>Useful when VG is not applicable<\/td><\/tr>\n<tr><td><strong>SF<\/strong><\/td><td>Shellfish-free<\/td><td>Use when shellfish dishes are also on the menu<\/td><\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<h3>How to format dietary notation on the card<\/h3>\n\nPlace symbols immediately after the dish name, in parentheses or as a small superscript. Include a key at the bottom of the card, below the final course or in a small-print footnote area.\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\nPan-roasted chicken thigh with herb jus (GF)<br>\nWild mushroom risotto (V, GF)<br>\nGrilled barramundi with lemon salsa verde (GF, DF)<br><br>\n<em>V = Vegetarian | VG = Vegan | GF = Gluten-Free | DF = Dairy-Free<br>\nPlease advise your server of any allergies.<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<h3>Color-coded dietary notation<\/h3>\n\nSome couples prefer color-coded symbols or small icons over letter abbreviations. This works well on digital-print menu cards where color is inexpensive. Use a simple colored dot or leaf icon next to each dish, with a matching color key at the bottom. Keep to a maximum of three or four colors to avoid the card looking too busy.\n\n<h3>Spelled-out notation (formal menus)<\/h3>\n\nFor very formal events where symbols feel too casual, spell out the dietary description in parentheses at the end of the dish description:\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\nSeared duck breast with cherry reduction<br>\nButternut squash ravioli with sage brown butter <em>(vegetarian)<\/em><br>\nChocolate fondant with salted caramel ice cream <em>(contains nuts)<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<p style=\"text-align:center;margin:32px auto;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/blogcdn.paperlust.co\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/the-menu-card-wording-inl4.jpeg\" alt=\"Close-up detail of a wedding menu card showing dietary symbols and elegant typography on premium paper stock\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" style=\"max-width:100%;height:auto;display:inline-block;border-radius:4px;\" \/><\/p>\n\n<h2>Non-Wedding Menu Card Wording: Rehearsal Dinner, Corporate Dinner, Holiday Party<\/h2>\n\nMenu card wording conventions apply well beyond weddings. The same rules of capitalization, dietary notation, and tone-matching hold for any formal dining event.\n\n<h3>Rehearsal dinner menu card wording<\/h3>\n\nA rehearsal dinner menu card is typically warmer and less formal than a wedding menu. It often includes a brief note from the hosts and sets the tone for the evening as a celebration of the people and relationships behind the wedding day. If you are still planning the invitation side of the evening, our <a href=\"https:\/\/paperlust.co\/blog\/rehearsal-dinner-invitations\/\">rehearsal dinner invitation wording guide<\/a> covers templates, etiquette, and timing.\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<strong>The Night Before the Big Day<\/strong><br>\nHosted by the Anderson and Chen Families<br>\nSeptember 5, 2026<br><br>\n<em>To start<\/em><br>\nBurrata with heirloom tomato and basil oil (V, GF)<br>\nTuna tartare with sesame crisp and yuzu<br><br>\n<em>Main<\/em><br>\nBraised short rib with creamy grits and gremolata<br>\nPan-seared salmon with dill cream sauce (GF)<br>\nRoasted cauliflower steak with romesco (V, VG, GF)<br><br>\n<em>Dessert<\/em><br>\nMini pavlovas with fresh strawberries (GF)<br>\nChocolate lava cake with vanilla cream<br><br>\n<em>V = Vegetarian, VG = Vegan, GF = Gluten-Free<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<strong>Welcome to the Family<\/strong><br>\nA rehearsal dinner for Mia &amp; Caleb<br><br>\n<em>Shared to start<\/em><br>\nSelection of charcuterie, olives, and grilled sourdough<br><br>\n<em>Choose your main<\/em><br>\nPan-seared chicken with lemon herb butter<br>\nBarramundi with tomato and caper dressing (GF, DF)<br>\nBeetroot and feta tart (V)<br><br>\n<em>Something sweet to end<\/em><br>\nWarm brownie with caramel gelato<br>\nFresh fruit sorbet (VG, GF)\n<\/div>\n\n<h3>Corporate dinner menu card wording<\/h3>\n\nCorporate dinners call for a clean, professional tone. Keep dish descriptions precise and avoid overly poetic language. Many corporate clients include a company logo or event branding at the top.\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<strong>Annual Leadership Dinner 2026<\/strong><br>\n[Company Name]<br>\nNovember 12, 2026 | The Grand Ballroom<br><br>\n<em>First course<\/em><br>\nSmoked salmon rillette with capers and rye crisp<br>\nSeasonal greens with champagne vinaigrette (V, GF)<br><br>\n<em>Main course<\/em><br>\nPrime beef tenderloin with bordelaise sauce<br>\nPan-roasted chicken supreme with wild mushroom cream<br>\nRoasted pumpkin and spinach gnocchi (V)<br><br>\n<em>Dessert<\/em><br>\nDark chocolate mousse with raspberry coulis<br>\nCheese board with quince paste and crackers<br><br>\n<em>Dietary key: V = Vegetarian, GF = Gluten-Free<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<h3>Holiday party menu card wording<\/h3>\n\nHoliday party menus get to be festive. Warmth and seasonal references are welcome. This is one context where a little alliteration or playful heading (&#8220;Merry Mains&#8221;, &#8220;Sweet Endings&#8221;) works in your favor.\n\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border-left:3px solid #ddd;padding:16px 20px;margin:20px 0;font-style:italic;\">\n<strong>Season&#8217;s Greetings from the Hartley Family<\/strong><br>\nChristmas Eve Dinner, December 24, 2026<br><br>\n<em>Starters<\/em><br>\nPrawn cocktail with cocktail sauce<br>\nBrie en croute with fig jam and walnuts (V)<br><br>\n<em>The main event<\/em><br>\nGlazed honey ham with mustard cream<br>\nHerb-roasted turkey with pan gravy<br>\nLentil Wellington with red wine reduction (V, VG)<br><br>\n<em>Sides to share<\/em><br>\nCrispy roast potatoes (V, GF)<br>\nGreen beans with toasted almonds and butter (V, GF)<br>\nCauliflower gratin (V)<br><br>\n<em>Desserts<\/em><br>\nTraditional plum pudding with brandy butter<br>\nPavlova with cream and summer berries (V, GF)<br>\nMince pies (V)<br><br>\n<em>V = Vegetarian, VG = Vegan, GF = Gluten-Free<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n<p>For more wedding-specific examples, including 20+ templates across cuisine styles and formats, see our companion guide: <a href=\"\/blog\/wedding-menu-card-wording\/\">Wedding Menu Card Wording: 50+ Templates by Cuisine, Style, and Format<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<h2>Menu Card Wording FAQs<\/h2>\n\n<h3>What wording goes on a wedding menu card?<\/h3>\n<p>A wedding menu card typically includes the couple&#8217;s names, the wedding date (optional), course headings, dish names with brief descriptions, and dietary symbols with a key. More formal menus include French course headings in italics; casual menus often skip the couple&#8217;s names and use playful section headings instead.<\/p>\n\n<h3>Should dish names be capitalized on a menu card?<\/h3>\n<p>Capitalize only proper nouns &#8211; named dishes, city names, or names derived from a person (Caesar salad, Brussels sprouts). Common nouns like &#8220;chicken,&#8221; &#8220;salad,&#8221; or &#8220;soup&#8221; should not be capitalized mid-sentence. Capitalizing every word makes a menu harder to read and looks informal despite its intention.<\/p>\n\n<h3>How do you indicate dietary options on a menu card?<\/h3>\n<p>Place standard symbols (V for vegetarian, VG for vegan, GF for gluten-free, N for nuts, DF for dairy-free) directly after the dish name in parentheses. Add a key at the bottom of the card. For very formal events, spell out the dietary description in full (e.g., &#8220;vegetarian&#8221; in parentheses) rather than using abbreviations.<\/p>\n\n<h3>What is the difference between plated and buffet menu card wording?<\/h3>\n<p>Plated menu cards list courses in the order they will be served, one card per guest at their place setting. Buffet menu cards are placed on tables (one to two per table) and list stations or categories of dishes. Individual buffet station signs use a simple heading with a brief list of items and dietary symbols.<\/p>\n\n<h3>Do you need a menu card at a buffet?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes &#8211; even for a buffet, a menu card helps guests plan their plates, identify dietary-friendly options, and understand what&#8217;s available before they approach the buffet line. One per table is standard. Station signs at each food station are an additional option, not a replacement for a central menu card.<\/p>\n\n<h3>What should a rehearsal dinner menu card include?<\/h3>\n<p>A rehearsal dinner menu card typically includes the event name or a warm greeting, the hosts&#8217; names, the date, course listings with brief descriptions, and dietary symbols with a key. The tone is warmer and less formal than a wedding menu &#8211; a brief note of welcome from the hosts is a thoughtful addition.<\/p>\n\n<h3>Do French terms need to be italicized on a menu card?<\/h3>\n<p>Traditional typographic convention italicizes foreign-language words when used in an English text, so yes &#8211; French course headings like <em>hors d&#8217;oeuvre<\/em>, <em>amuse-bouche<\/em>, or <em>entremets<\/em> are italicized on formal menus. Whether you include them at all depends on the formality level of your event and the cuisine being served.<\/p>\n\n<h3>What is the correct format for a wedding buffet menu card?<\/h3>\n<p>List stations as bold or italicized headings, then list the dishes under each station with dietary symbols. Include a key at the bottom. For very casual buffets, a single combined list with a &#8220;buffet dinner&#8221; heading works well. One menu card per table is standard; for smaller or more intimate receptions, one per two guests is also acceptable.<\/p>\n\n<h3>How long should menu card descriptions be?<\/h3>\n<p>Keep descriptions concise &#8211; usually one short phrase after the dish name is sufficient (e.g., &#8220;pan-seared halibut, lemon beurre blanc&#8221;). Overly long descriptions crowd the card and are hard to read at a table setting. For cocktail hour cards and casual buffets, even the dish name alone with a dietary symbol is enough.<\/p>\n\n<h3>Can I use a menu card for a corporate event or holiday party?<\/h3>\n<p>Absolutely. Menu cards are a polished touch at any sit-down dinner. For corporate events, use a clean professional tone with precise dish names. For holiday parties, a warmer, festive tone with seasonal section headings is appropriate. The same core rules apply: capitalize only proper nouns, note dietary options, and keep descriptions brief and accurate.<\/p>\n\n\n<div data-canon=\"cta-v1-w4bodyfix\" style=\"background:#f8f6f3;border:1px solid #e5dccf;border-left:4px solid #c9a96e;padding:28px 32px;margin:40px 0 32px;border-radius:2px;\"><strong style=\"font-size:13px;letter-spacing:.08em;text-transform:uppercase;color:#7a5c2e;display:block;margin-bottom:12px;\">DESIGN YOUR MENU CARDS<\/strong><p style=\"margin:0 0 18px;line-height:1.6;font-size:15px;color:#2a2a2a;\">Found your wording? See how it looks on a real menu card. Browse our designs, or order a $5 sample pack to feel the paper and foil before you commit.<\/p><a href=\"\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#c9a96e;color:#fff;padding:13px 24px;text-decoration:none;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:.06em;text-transform:uppercase;font-size:12px;margin:0 8px 8px 0;\">Browse Menu Cards<\/a><a href=\"\/get-samples\/\" style=\"display:inline-block;border:1px solid #c9a96e;color:#7a5c2e;padding:12px 23px;text-decoration:none;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:.06em;text-transform:uppercase;font-size:12px;background:#fff;\">Order $5 Sample Pack<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What wording goes on a wedding menu card?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"A wedding menu card typically includes the couple's names, the wedding date (optional), course headings, dish names with brief descriptions, and dietary symbols with a key. More formal menus include French course headings in italics; casual menus often skip the couple's names and use playful section headings instead.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Should dish names be capitalized on a menu card?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Capitalize only proper nouns - named dishes, city names, or names derived from a person (Caesar salad, Brussels sprouts). Common nouns like chicken, salad, or soup should not be capitalized mid-sentence. Capitalizing every word makes a menu harder to read and looks informal despite its intention.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How do you indicate dietary options on a menu card?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Place standard symbols (V for vegetarian, VG for vegan, GF for gluten-free, N for nuts, DF for dairy-free) directly after the dish name in parentheses. Add a key at the bottom of the card. For very formal events, spell out the dietary description in full rather than using abbreviations.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What is the difference between plated and buffet menu card wording?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Plated menu cards list courses in the order they will be served, one card per guest at their place setting. Buffet menu cards are placed on tables (one to two per table) and list stations or categories of dishes. Individual buffet station signs use a simple heading with a brief list of items and dietary symbols.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Do you need a menu card at a buffet?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Yes - even for a buffet, a menu card helps guests plan their plates, identify dietary-friendly options, and understand what's available before they approach the buffet line. One per table is standard. Station signs at each food station are an additional option, not a replacement for a central menu card.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What should a rehearsal dinner menu card include?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"A rehearsal dinner menu card typically includes the event name or a warm greeting, the hosts' names, the date, course listings with brief descriptions, and dietary symbols with a key. The tone is warmer and less formal than a wedding menu - a brief note of welcome from the hosts is a thoughtful addition.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Do French terms need to be italicized on a menu card?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Traditional typographic convention italicizes foreign-language words when used in an English text, so yes - French course headings like hors d'oeuvre, amuse-bouche, or entremets are italicized on formal menus. Whether you include them at all depends on the formality level of your event and the cuisine being served.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What is the correct format for a wedding buffet menu card?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"List stations as bold or italicized headings, then list the dishes under each station with dietary symbols. Include a key at the bottom. For very casual buffets, a single combined list with a buffet dinner heading works well. One menu card per table is standard; for smaller or more intimate receptions, one per two guests is also acceptable.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How long should menu card descriptions be?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Keep descriptions concise - usually one short phrase after the dish name is sufficient (e.g., pan-seared halibut, lemon beurre blanc). Overly long descriptions crowd the card and are hard to read at a table setting. For cocktail hour cards and casual buffets, even the dish name alone with a dietary symbol is enough.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Can I use a menu card for a corporate event or holiday party?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Absolutely. Menu cards are a polished touch at any sit-down dinner. For corporate events, use a clean professional tone with precise dish names. For holiday parties, a warmer, festive tone with seasonal section headings is appropriate. The same core rules apply: capitalize only proper nouns, note dietary options, and keep descriptions brief and accurate.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script>\n\n<div style=\"background:#f8f6f3;border:1px solid #e8e0d5;border-radius:4px;padding:32px 36px;margin:48px 0;text-align:center;\">\n  <p style=\"font-size:22px;font-weight:600;margin-bottom:8px;\">Ready to design your menu cards?<\/p>\n  <p style=\"color:#666;margin-bottom:24px;\">Browse hundreds of designer menu card styles &#8211; digital print, letterpress, and flat foil. Proofs delivered in 1-2 business days.<\/p>\n  <a href=\"\/browse\/wedding-menu\/\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#c9a96e;color:#fff;padding:14px 32px;border-radius:3px;text-decoration:none;font-weight:600;font-size:17px;margin-right:12px;\">Browse Menu Cards<\/a><a href=\"\/blog\/wedding-menu-card-wording\/\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#fff;color:#c9a96e;padding:14px 32px;border-radius:3px;text-decoration:none;font-weight:600;font-size:17px;border:2px solid #c9a96e;\">50+ Wording Templates<\/a>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Master menu card wording with formal typography rules, buffet vs plated examples, dietary notation, and 20+ templates for weddings and events.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":16440,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[131],"tags":[146,147,141,145,139,105,137,148],"class_list":["post-4365","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wedding-ideas","tag-fonts-and-lettering","tag-menu-card","tag-paper","tag-style-setters","tag-wedding","tag-wedding-details","tag-wedding-ideas","tag-wedding-menu"],"yoast_metadesc":"What\u2019s the best menu card wording? It might help to start by Finding Your Wedding Invitation Wording Style the Easy Way and matching the menu card wording.","yoast_title":"","yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Menu Card Wording: Formal Conventions and 20+ Examples - Paperlust<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What\u2019s the best menu card wording? It might help to start by Finding Your Wedding Invitation Wording Style the Easy Way and matching the menu card wording.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/paperlust.co\/blog\/the-menu-card-wording\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Menu Card Wording: Formal Conventions and 20+ Examples - Paperlust\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What\u2019s the best menu card wording? It might help to start by Finding Your Wedding Invitation Wording Style the Easy Way and matching the menu card wording.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/paperlust.co\/blog\/the-menu-card-wording\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Paperlust\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/paperlust.co\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2015-05-15T06:37:27+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-12T05:52:43+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/blogcdn.paperlust.co\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/the-menu-card-wording-hero.jpeg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"811\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Maddison Wallace\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@https:\/\/twitter.com\/wordsbreedbooks\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Maddison Wallace\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Maddison Wallace\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/4046e4353f370e5bc347e41680dd5e89\"},\"headline\":\"Menu Card Wording: Formal Conventions and 20+ Examples\",\"datePublished\":\"2015-05-15T06:37:27+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-12T05:52:43+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2779,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogcdn.paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/the-menu-card-wording-hero.jpeg\",\"keywords\":[\"fonts and lettering\",\"menu card\",\"Paper\",\"style setters\",\"wedding\",\"wedding details\",\"wedding ideas\",\"wedding menu\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Wedding Ideas\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-AU\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/\",\"name\":\"Menu Card Wording: Formal Conventions and 20+ Examples - Paperlust\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/the-menu-card-wording\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogcdn.paperlust.co\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/the-menu-card-wording-hero.jpeg\",\"datePublished\":\"2015-05-15T06:37:27+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-12T05:52:43+00:00\",\"description\":\"What\u2019s the best menu card wording? 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