Catering must-knows for all engaged couples
Good food is a key element of any wedding, so as you prepare for yours, it’s important to get it right. If your chosen venue doesn’t include catering in the package, you’ll need to look elsewhere for services to fuel your guests, or look into alternative wedding meal ideas. Here, we will explore the top catering must-knows for all engaged couples, to help you make the right choice for your big day.
Decide if you want a traditional or alternative meal
Traditionally, weddings are usually bursting with tasty offerings throughout the day and night. You may begin by offering canapés post-ceremony, a three-course wedding breakfast, and then hot evening food alongside desserts and sweet treats. As a tried and tested, age-old tradition, offering a sit-down meal provides a fitting formal feel to your wedding.
Alternatively, many couples look for creative ways to present their delectable offerings, by opting for a barbeque, grazing table, buffet or food trucks. Forgoing the formalities of a sit-down meal can be a fun option; this also allows for a broader range of food options, and may be an easier way to cater for multiple dietary requirements.
Tasting sessions are crucial
Great caterers get booked up well in advance, so be sure to start researching early, as you’ll want to book yours around 9-12 months before your wedding date. In the months leading up to your big day, your caterer will likely invite you to a tasting session. Attending this event is the best way to ensure that you love all of the dishes being served at your wedding, and it’s a great opportunity to tweak the tastes to your preference.
Be sure to keep in regular contact with your caterer to relay any changes or updates to your needs. Asking your guests for any dietary requirements or allergy information when they RSVP also gives your caterer plenty of time to adjust specific options as necessary.
How much does wedding catering cost?
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to catering costs – each wedding will be different, and your total spend will be determined by a number of factors. Most importantly, you’ll have to consider the type of food you ideally want to serve, and the number of guests attending. According to a 2022 survey, the average UK couple spend £70 per head on catering. You can use this figure as a rough guide, but as with any other aspect of your wedding, you may wish to get a little creative and spend more or less, depending on how important the culinary element is to your celebration.
Do it your way
It can be overwhelming trying to think of a meal that every single person at your wedding will adore, so stick to what you and your partner like the best. Whatever style of wedding food you decide upon, be sure to start the conversation with your caterers early to ensure you can realise your dream wedding meal.
