Consideration When Choosing a Wedding Caterer
When it comes to planning the perfect wedding, every detail matters. From asking loved ones to save the date to deciding on a date, you want the nuptials of your dreams. While there are many important things to cover, most would agree the reception menu is a big deal. The reception is one of the things people anticipate most about a wedding, and yours is no exception. Finding the right caterer is a detail that requires your care and consideration. Here are some things engaged Canadian couples should know.
Choosing the Event Type
You know you’re getting married, and you certainly want to have a reception. Have you thought about the type of event you’re having? Will it be a smaller affair with food served family-style per table? Will you have a buffet-style service where guests get their food and return to their seats to eat? Maybe you want to serve a grand meal made of several small courses featuring gourmet dishes and ingredients. Before you can choose a caterer, you need to have an idea of the type of reception you’re envisioning. The right caterer will be able to execute your vision splendidly.
Determining a Budget With A Caterer
Just as casual restaurants are less expensive than fine dining establishments, casual catering is generally less expensive than gourmet or exotic catering. How much can you afford to spend on food? It’s important to have a realistic budget based on what you want. Fancier dishes often require more expensive ingredients and more complicated cooking techniques. Look for a caterer that can provide the menu you want at a price you can afford. A good caterer can also explore cost-saving options.
Prioritizing Based on the Food
Many couples will focus on booking a venue first and then check to see if that venue can accommodate their reception plans. It might be better to start with the caterer. Most professionals will have knowledge about local venues that “cater” best to their food preparation and service. If your caterer and menu require food to be cooked at the venue, you’ll want a place with a full kitchen that can accommodate cooking for a crowd. If not, then you’ll need a provider who can cook at another location and bring equipment to keep dishes at the proper temperature.
Accommodating Special Diets With A Caterer
Between food intolerances, dietary restrictions, and special lifestyles, it’s important to know if the caterer can accommodate special diets. Imagine your bestie has agreed to be a maid of honor or best man, but due to their lactose intolerance, they won’t be able to eat much of what’s served. Think about the people who will be celebrating with you, including vegetarians, vegans, pescatarians, and people who avoid certain foods for health or religious reasons. Many caterers can provide multiple options to make sure everyone enjoys a full meal.
Confirming What Is Covered
It’s important to have a clear understanding of what’s included with a caterer’s services. Some caterers only provide the food, but it’s up to you or the venue to provide servers, bartenders, and other personnel. You may have other wedding vendors such as a planner, a photographer, or DJ working the event. Will the catering include meals for those vendors? Some wedding chefs also provide tools and equipment needed to serve and dispose of food. Don’t assume when it comes to what’s included. Ask lots of questions and get answers before agreeing to a contract.
Your special day is about so much more than the food, but your menu is an important part of the event. Weddings should be joyous affairs, but hiring the wrong caterer or ignoring certain food-related details can negatively impact your special occasion. Consider these important details when planning your wedding eats.
