Just because you’re planning a wedding doesn’t mean you have to stick to a traditional menu… you know, with steak, potatoes, and a side of steamed veggies. Maybe you love sweet, tangy St. Louis style ribs, cooked over an open flame. Or maybe Carolina style pulled pork is more your thing, with the vinegary sauce poured all over the sandwich. No matter where your loyalties lie, you can definitely serve your favorite barbecue at your wedding! (Trust us — guests will love the change of pace!) There are plenty of barbecue places that will cater your wedding. Check to see whether your neighborhood can serve the number of guests you’ll have. We’ve rounded up some of the most awesome barbecue ideas we’ve seen at weddings so far, but no matter how you slice it, the smoky meats and flavorful sauces will always be a hit! And don’t forget the sweet tea!
Pulled Pork Sliders
Megan Clouse PhotographyThese pulled pork sliders were a staple at Terri and Michael’s old-world themed wedding; They were served as a tribute to the Terri’s North Carolina roots!
From the album: An Old World Romantic Wedding at The Jacuzzi Family Vineyards in Sonoma, California
Kettle Cooked Chips in Decorative Paper
Justin Hackworth PhotographyThe perfect side for casual pork sliders? Kettle cooked chips (with signature seasoning) like Nathan and Jillian served at their chilled-out reception. They added seasonal summer fruit skewers for an extra summery touch.
From the album: A Country Casual Wedding in Kemmerer, WY
Choose Your Own Barbecue Sauce Bar
Alisandra PhotographySignature cocktails? Not for Jen and Greg. The couple decided to make their own custom barbecue sauces for guests to drizzle on their dinner instead.
From the album: An Elegant Rustic Wedding at Fat Cat Farm in Charlottesville, Virginia
Mini Hot Dogs
K. Thomson Photography, LLCSave your wedding dress from rogue mustard stains by serving one-bite mini hot dogs!
From the album: A Sunny Summer Wedding in Washington, DC
Barbecue Sauce Wedding Favors
CarolynMarie PhotographyWhen you’re from North Carolina, it’s only right that you incorporate barbecue into your wedding. But when your grandfather makes and sells his own barbecue sauce (like Elizabeth’s does) it’s only right that you give it away as favors at your backyard wedding!
From the album: A Southern-Chic Backyard Wedding in Wilson, North Carolina
Freshly Grilled Hamburgers
Nick RadfordThough Heidi and Ryan wanted a Gatsby-esque reception, that didn’t stop them from making sure the day had a casual vibe. For starters, guests enjoyed freshly grilled hamburgers at their garden reception.
From The Knot Regional New York Magazine Spring/Summer 2015
Barbecue Rub
Priscilla Thomas PhotographyFor the ultimate wedding favor, capitalize on your wedding menu; send guests home with the perfect combination of salts and spices for them to use on their own grills at home.
From the album: A Simple and Elegant Wedding at Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton, Virginia
Southern Sweet Tea
Anne Marie PhotographyYou really can’t go wrong serving sweet tea and barbecue at your reception (especially if you’re from Texas, like Randi and Jeff)…it’s pretty much the only drink you need at a backyard barbecue!
From the album: A Regal Wedding in Kerrville, TX