Gluten is a general name for the proteins found in wheat, rye, barley and triticale. Gluten helps foods maintain their shape, acting as a glue that holds food together, and can be found in many types of foods, even unexpected ones.

Many people strive to avoid gluten in their diets. Whether it's a dietary restriction such as Celiac's or gluten intolerance, or simply a preference in order to avoid starchy foods, you're likely to have at least one gluten free person attend your wedding.

It is always important to be aware of your guests’ dietary needs. Offering gluten free options can be a nice gesture for the people attending your wedding. 

Make sure you inform your caterer of any dietary needs you will be offering, as well as the severity. Catering for a person with Celiac's is very different from catering for someone who chooses to eat gluten free as a preference. These needs should be something you bring up in your first meeting with the vendor who is providing your food items (including dessert!). At your food tasting, the chef should be able to provide a few different gluten free options for appetizers, entrees, side dishes, and desserts.

If you’re getting your wedding cake from an outside vendor, the same rules apply. Start early by stating that you would like to offer some gluten free desserts. Your vendor can provide a mini dessert option for those with dietary restrictions. If your guest's dietary restriction is severe, you may want to seek a specifically gluten free bakery to craft a few treats in order to ensure there was no cross-contamination.

A polite gesture for any guests with severe restrictions would be to ensure they have their own specific everything (dishware, plate of food, etc.). Treat severe gluten intolerance the same as a peanut allergy - you would not want to risk your guest coming in contact with the thing that could make them very ill!

To summarize: 

- Ask your caterer and baker about gluten free options EARLY during the planning process

- Ensure you treat the catering situation with the appropriate level of seriousness (severe intolerance vs. preference)

- Have a few options for gluten free desserts, not just dinners!