The menu is one of the most important aspects of a wedding reception. But a lot of essential catering details can get overlooked in the bustle of wedding planning. Don’t leave a bad taste in your guest’s mouth. Take a crash course with our Catering 101!
The Search
If you’re lucky, your reception site has an excellent, reasonably priced, in-house caterer. But most likely you’ll need to track down an independent service. Before you start looking, find out if your reception site provides linens, dinnerware, tables, chairs, waiters, etc. If you have a space that includes these dining extras, you only need a bare-bones caterer to provide the food. Full-service caterers, on the other hand, include food, beverages, waiters, and bartenders, as well as linens and dinnerware options.
Don’t book a caterer blindly. Read reviews online, check the caterers’ websites for local awards, and ask for references. Also ask your other vendors if they have any recommendations. They’re experienced professionals in the business, and some might offer discounts if you book with a preferred vendor.
Meeting Caterers
Once you’ve narrowed down your search, prepare an essential list of questions: Does the caterer provide sit-down meals, buffets, or stations? What kind of menu options can you and your guests choose from? Does the catering include a wedding cake? Make sure you know exactly what you’re getting for your money.
Speaking of costs, keep in mind that caterers’ initial estimates are based on current food prices. Find out what price differences you should expect at the time of your wedding. Also ask about price guarantees and refund policies. And when you give the caterer your guest list number, don’t forget to set aside meals for your DJ, wedding planner, and photographer!
Before you leave, make sure you get every part of your agreement in writing, down to the tiniest detail. You don’t want any unpleasant surprises on your wedding day.
Choosing the Menu
You’ll never please everyone, so select a menu that you think your guests will enjoy but that also appeals to you and your fiancé. The best option is options; if possible let your guests choose between fish, chicken, beef, or other entrees.
Sit-down meals are usually the most expensive, but are well suited for formal weddings. Food stations manned by wait staff are popular alternatives. Stations provide variety for guests, plus you can choose dishes that match your personal tastes and the wedding’s theme. Stations can include just about anything: pasta, sushi, carved turkey, spicy kabobs, desserts, and more.
Buffets are the most cost effective option and are a nice choice for casual weddings. But they can also cause major traffic jams. Make sure you have two buffet lines to keep the dinner flowing smoothly, and consider using a wait staff to clear the tables and serve drinks. Also ensure that there’s plenty of food. You don’t want the last guest in line to go hungry.
Weddings are expensive, and it might seem like a good idea to cut costs on catering. But trust us, guests will appreciate the extra thought that goes into their meals. Ensure your menu contains a variety of high quality options.
Bon appetit!
All images courtesy of WolgangPuck.com.
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