When do you plan to have your reception?
Will you have a summer meal at 2 PM or an elegant winter dinner at 8 PM? This will be one of the most important decisions you will make. This will be dependent on the availability of your venue.

Is cost an issue?
Review your wedding budget. If you're cost-cutting, filet mignon is not be an option. Keep it simple. The more options you offer, the more your expensive your meal will be. If your budget is tight, consider a cocktail reception, afternoon tea, or dessert reception.

What does your caterer recommend?
Are there particular dishes that they're known for, or that they recommend? Make your caterer aware of your budget. If you're catering your own wedding, what recipes are always a crowd-pleaser?

Offer variety
Offer both stationery and passed hors d'oeuvres, along with hot and cold ones. Your guests will always be able to go to a station, but guests in conversation will still have a chance to nibble.