Sharing a feast with your family and friends at the reception is a significant aspect of the wedding celebration. Amidst all the other planning, catering can quickly become an afterthought. Don't let this happen!
People adore good food and drink, so instead plan the best meal possible for your nuptials. There are several things to consider. Let's have a look at what you need to think about.
As always, knowing what you can spend on your catering before starting the process is crucial. Quality cuisine can cost, so be strict about keeping to your financial plan.
When you start getting quotes from caterers, make sure you know what they'll include. Will it be just the main meal, or will it have, for example, welcome champagne and canapes as well?
Don't be shy to negotiate with caterers to get the best deal. This is standard practice in the industry.
This brings us to the kind of reception you'd like. You need to decide this so you can pick the appropriate caterer and type of food. The standard options are:
1. Sit down three-course plated lunch/dinner
2. Sit down buffet
3. Standing or grazing tables
4. Casual mingle-orientated dining
The type of food you choose often depends on what your caterer typically has on their menus. Discuss with them what they can offer, what they recommend, what you prefer, and what menu option is best for the season you're getting married in.
Consider if anyone has any special dietary requirements. For example, determine whether anyone is vegetarian, vegan, gluten intolerant, etc. It's a nice touch to attend to these guests' needs.
Top Tip
Don't let other suppliers at the wedding go hungry! Ensure people such as the photographer, the DJ or musicians, and anyone else working at the wedding for a significant period are on the catering list.
There are no rules surrounding reception or dining style. Intimate and personalised dining is becoming more and more popular. It's a relaxed and warm way for guests to interact with each other.
Here are some ideas:
1. Invite a small number of guests and put together an informal supper where everyone can mingle in a garden setting.
2. Hire a corner of your best-loved restaurant. With this option, you could arrange a set menu, or let each guest order what they would like.
3. A chef's table is also an excellent fine dining option for small receptions. If your family are real 'foodies', this could be a hit. Just be aware that this specialised experience could be more expensive.
4. You could also use the family's general favourite food as a meal theme. Pasta, pizza, burgers, sushi, roast lamb – whatever is a ‘thing’ in your family. This way, you can't go wrong!
Many wedding venues have their caterers or dining contractors, so this can make things simpler. If your venue does not have catering, i.e. if you're having a garden wedding at home, you will need to find the right service provider.
It's best to look for caterers that come highly recommended. Also, look for those that specialise in the type of food you'd prefer. Ask your wedding planner for some tips. You can also browse HAPPLY's directory to find the best caterers in the business.
Even if a supplier comes with an excellent report card, it's best to ask to see a portfolio of their wedding cuisine and book a tasting. If you can, try more than one caterer, so you have more context.
Also, make sure the caterer will have all the necessary equipment to prepare food freshly at your venue. Talk this through in detail. Ask them precisely what they will be providing – does their service include cutlery, crockery, and glassware? What about wait staff?
Just like sourcing your other wedding suppliers, selecting catering is a process. Be sure to start your research and try out a few caterers at least 4 – 6 months before the wedding. When you begin contacting candidates, the first thing you should ask is if they're available on your wedding date. Otherwise, you may be wasting time.
Once you've found the right person, book them by paying a deposit. You should book your caterer 2 – 4 months before the wedding day.
Once you have all your final RSVPs, be sure to inform your caterer of the final guest headcount. Do this at least 2 – 4 weeks before the big day – the earlier, the better.
Lastly, remember to have fun! You'll be planning a delicious banquet for your nearest and dearest. What's not to love about that?
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