[Glennda]

This will be an outdoor wedding and reception and we are planning on serving deli type sandwiches, macaroni and potato salad, etc. At what time of day would this be acceptable?

[Ohio Wedding Planner]

This menu is meant as a casual, picnic lunch type meal and should be served during the early afternoon. One thing to watch for is that any product that include mayonaisse MUST be kept at a certain temperature in order to not go bad, quickly. This is a real concern when doing outdoor events with this type of food, as getting all of your wedding guests sick, is not a memory you want. Also, bugs will be another issue, depending on the time of day, so plan accordingly.
Good luck!

[Etiquette Now]

Great advice! I completely agree.

[Wedding Queen and MOG]

Commercial mayonnaise is among the safest of foods when properly handled. Most harmful bacteria die off within hours in the presence of mayonnaise, largely due to its high acidity.

While mayonnaise has been implicated as the cause of food poisoning, the real culprits in these types of deli salads are the other ingredients such as potatoes, eggs, pasta, and tuna that are often combined with mayonnaise before being thoroughly chilled and then left at room temperature for several hours. Bacteria can be introduced and multiply while ingredients are warm. Thoroughly chill salad ingredients, including mayonnaise, before combining. Even canned tuna needs to be pre-chilled, unless you will be eating it immediately after opening the can.

Transport salads on ice or in a cooler. Display the salads to your guests by nesting each of your salad bowls in a larger bin filled with ice and cover to keep our insects.

I have attached a PDF on mayonnaise safety.