Wedding Menu Cards
Menu cards 
aren't required and can easily be omitted from casual weddings, tea luncheons, cocktail receptions, and buffets. However, semi-formal and formal weddings usually have them because at sit-down lunches and dinners menu cards give the guests an idea of what is being served and what options are available. Instead of each server having to recite the menu at each table and wasting precious time and money, the menu gives people a chance to mull over the options, whether they want grilled chicken or filet mignon, the soup or the salad. It also lets guests know if there are any special options available, such as a vegetarian entrée.
Menu cards are not only great for starting up conversations, but they are also a way of telling the guests of what is to come. Just imagine that you have arranged for an elaborate dessert spread and you fail to warn the guests. They may stuff themselves on the main course and be unable to try the scrumptious petits fours, éclairs, and chocolate fountain that you arranged for. Likewise, if there will be a particular wine being served, it is good to alert the guests of their options, as it may influence their choice of food.
The Style
Most likely you'll want the menu cards to reflect the style and theme of the wedding, whether it be formal or casual, colorful or monochrome. Heavy cardstock should be used as it feels nicer and holds up better. You don't want a floppy piece of paper as the menu, but rather paper that can stand on its own or folded tent style. White and ecru with black or dark gray ink is traditional, but it's perfectly acceptable, if not recommended, to follow your creative instinct when it comes to colors, patterns, borders, and embellishments. Don't be afraid to make you menu cards unique. They are, after all, part of the table decoration. You may even opt to frame them, making them double as a wedding favor.
When to Order
It's a lovely idea to order all of the stationary for your wedding at one time. However, because most couples haven't even decided on what decorations to order, much less what will be on the menu at the reception, it's not common to order menu cards with your invitations. Nonetheless, you can still order menu cards from the same company as your other printed goods if desired. On the other hand, you may also choose to make your own menu cards (if you have a computer with a word processing or design program and a printer ) or order them from a different company.
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