So, after extending your engagement celebrations for as long as possible, you’ve finally plucked up the courage to sit down and start planning the big day. If you and your partner are big foodies like us, finding the right caterer is just as important as saying yes to the dress. The decision requires careful consideration and planning to ensure an exceptional culinary experience that perfectly complements a day filled with love, laughter and memorable moments.
In this blog, we offer everything you need to know when it comes to choosing the right wedding caterer, from ensuring they provide extensive experience and expertise to offering a professional, cost-effective service. We’ll also talk you through what to ask your caterer, from the possibility of creating bespoke menus to ensuring they can meet a strict timeframe.
At Eat Catering, we know that planning a wedding is never a simple affair. Our bespoke wedding catering services can ensure your wedding day is faultless, providing unique menus that are both seasonal and sustainable. Click here to contact our team today.
How to Choose a Wedding Caterer
A large portion of your wedding budget will go to your venue and catering. The more guests you’re planning to invite, the more money you’ll be spending on food. Through thorough research and open communication, you can find a caterer who can transform your culinary dreams into a reality.
Some of the most important things to consider when choosing a wedding caterer include:
Start Early
As nerve-induing as it can be to finally start planning your big day, beginning your search for a caterer well in advance can avoid a last-minute rush and limited availability.
Start by researching caterers in your local area or those who partner with your chosen venue. Read online reviews, browse their website and gather recommendations from friends and family who have recently tied the knot. This initial research will help you create a shortlist of potential caterers to consider.
Define Your Budget
Before you can start reaching out to caterers, you’ll need to have a clear vision of both your budget and the type of dining experience you want to provide for your guests.
Whether you’re opting for a formal dinner, a casual buffet or trendy food trucks, knowing your preferred style ahead of time will help your caterer tailor their ideas to your requirements.
While catering is a significant expense, it’s an investment in creating a memorable, enjoyable experience for both you and your guests.
Schedule Tastings
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential options, now is a good time to schedule some tastings. This is an excellent opportunity to assess the caterer’s expertise, flexibility and responsiveness to your needs.
During the tasting, pay close attention to the taste of the dishes, the presentation and the number of options offered. A skilled wedding caterer will be able to customise their menus to accommodate any dietary restrictions or cultural preferences.
Evaluate Their Experience
When it comes to choosing a wedding caterer, experience is an incredibly important consideration. After all, a caterer who knows their stuff will be able to handle any challenges that arise during your big day in a swift, efficient manner.
When meeting with caterers, inquire about their history, whether they’ve accommodated your chosen theme before, and if they’ve ever catered a wedding at your chosen venue.
Service & Staffing
While the food is undoubtedly the star of the show, the level of service and staff are just as important. Inquire about the caterer’s service-to-guest ratio to ensure your entire party is taken care of.
Professional and attentive staff can enhance the overall dining experience, leaving a positive impression on your guests.
Seek Flexibility & a Bespoke Service
Your wedding day should be a reflection of your and your partner’s personalities. Therefore, your catering choice should perfectly align with your unique style.
A first-rate wedding caterer will be able and willing to customise their menus to suit your preferences. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free or have specific cultural preferences, a flexible caterer can make adjustments to accommodate your desires.
Trust Your Instincts
Beyond the logistics and finer details, trust your instincts when it comes to choosing a wedding caterer for your big day. Opt for a provider that you feel comfortable with, one that listens to your ideas and concerns and is genuinely excited to be a part of the celebration.
Secure Early
Once you’ve found the perfect wedding caterer that aligns with your vision, budget and requirements, don’t delay in securing their services!
Catering companies often fill their calendars quickly, particularly during peak wedding seasons. Making a deposit and signing the contract early will ensure your chosen caterer is secured for your wedding date.
What to Ask | Catering For a Wedding
Now that you’ve whittled down your options, it’s important to ask your caterer the right questions to ensure you’re both on the same page. At Eat Catering, we’ve spoken to many nearly-weds over the years, offering tailored advice and guidance for their big day.
Below, we’ve narrowed down the top 5 questions you should be asking your wedding caterer to ensure a faultless wedding day.
- Are You Available on Our Wedding Date? – The most obvious question to ask any potential caterer, ensuring they’re guaranteed to be available on your chosen date will avoid disappointment later down the line.
- Will You Be Catering Any Other Weddings on the Day? – Ideally, you’ll be the only wedding being catered for on your big day, however, if you opt for a bigger catering company, that might not be the case. Make sure you know who will be present on the day so you’re all aware of what’s expected.
- Have You Worked at Our Chosen Venue Before? – Ask if they’re familiar with the layout and kitchen facilities so you’re both aware of how much prep needs to be done before the big day.
- Can You Accommodate Specific Dietary Requirements? – Whether you’re vegan, gluten or dairy-free, outlining your dietary needs as early as possible is incredibly important.
- Do You Offer Alcohol and Beverage Services? – Many wedding catering companies will provide alcohol services, however, the extent of their offerings will differ. Gaining an understanding of their alcohol service options will help ensure your chosen company can provide a service that aligns with your vision.
Choose Our Expert Wedding Catering Services
When it comes to choosing a wedding caterer, we know that our clients are looking for nothing short of perfection. At Eat Catering, we’re more than just exceptional caterers, we provide full event planning services, designed to help coordinate the finer details.
We create all our dishes using local ingredients, award-winning meats, fresh fish and vegetables from our local suppliers.
To learn more about our professional, trusted wedding catering services, please get in touch. You can reach Frankie on 07766 732564, or at info@eatthestreet.co.uk.
