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Going to my first Wedding and there's not Vegetarian or Vegan option!!!
Started
by Amber
on March 7, 2013
My cousin is getting married in a few months and I just received the invitation, but there's no vegetarian option nevermind a vegan one! Not going is not an option, we are close and I wouldn't dream of missing his wedding but I don' know how to stay true to my beliefs and still eat! I don't know what to do. I'm wondering if I should bring my own food, eat before or just suck it up and eat all the food (except the meat). I really need some advice!
I almost had the same issue at a friends wedding my best advice is to request something vegan at the wedding. If it is being catered or in a hall usually they have veggie sides they are serving with the main dishes and can generally make a plate up on the spot. If you feel this may be awkward for your cousin ask for the vendors info and negotiate with them to see if they can acomidate your dietary needs. Ultimately i am always weary of food in unfailiar situations so i always bring food to formal events and eat somethimg substantial before. Bring a power bar to hold you over. Ultimatly dont stress too much a few larabars can go a long way and it's only one meal. Good luck!
I hear you, Amber! I agree with the ideas you've been given so far: Eat prior, bring something to tide you over during the reception (be discreet, you are a guest, after all, at an important event), see if there is a way for your needs to be met through a) your cousin, or b) the reception location (keep in mind that doing so might incur charges that your cousin will need to pay. That's kinda yucky, right?). Here's another thought. It's based on manymanymany years of being vegetarian and then vegan and balancing my needs and beliefs with those of the people I love. This issue doesn't force you to abandon your beliefs. Even if you were to eat every darn thing served at that wedding your beliefs would remain intact, yes? Sometimes our beliefs meet realities--in this case the love you obviously have for your cousin and the happiness you want to share with him. When I think of leading a "kind life" I include ensuring that those I love feel valued (your question indicates you do too!). So, don't over think it. We can't always have our cashew cream and our tempah, etc. This doesn't mean we're doing any worse in leading a kind life, it just means we're assessing the bigger picture--the goal being to do as little harm as possible to our world. In this case, your cousin may trump some other things. Now, this doesn't mean you need to eat any animal products at the wedding--it just means you may not need to worry so much. Eat the veggies (even if they're made with butter), rave over the cake (even if you only take one tiny bite). You get my point. Enjoy! is the bottom line.
Make sure you eat well before going, and take a vegan protein bar with you in your bag. If they are serving dinner instead of a buffet, just say that you are not hungry. If anyone at the table gives you grief, just tell them the truth that you ate beforehand and have learned to not overeat. Or, if you do not mind controversy, tell them the truth that you are vegan and you ate before arriving.
PS: I do disagree with what Donna Miller said regarding just eat the veggies even if they are covered in butter and just take a bite of the cake. It is the same as saying just take one bite of the steak or just one bite of the chicken. As a vegan, it is the same. Celebrating one's marriage has nothing to do with weather you take a bite of the celebratory food it has to do with your presence and the love your are showing to the couple that are getting married.
Secret stash of nuts w/some dried fruits in a zippy bag slipped into my purse has held me over a while @ social/eating-centered celebrations. The fats and proteins from almonds and walnuts digest slowly which helps you not get hungry too soon. Apples and bananas travel well. And many shindigs like that have salads! Hooray! Have fun & Dance the night away...
I think Donna said it perfectly. I would also like to add...o.k we are vegans. Do we need to be so rigid? This is what turns people off to veganism. Eat the cake have some veggies. Most likely people won't be focusing on what you are eating. Good luck and have fun!
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