Types of Catering Styles

• Plated Dinners: This traditional style is often the most formal. Guests are seated, and each course is served directly to them by waitstaff. It typically includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert, along with optional wine pairings. This option provides a seamless experience and allows for more control over portions and pacing, making it ideal for couples who prefer a more refined ambiance.
• Buffet: Buffets are usually more budget-friendly and offer a wide variety of dishes, which can appeal to diverse tastes. With a buffet, guests serve themselves, which promotes a relaxed and casual vibe. It’s great for large weddings but may require extra coordination to manage lines and ensure food stays replenished.
• Family Style: Family-style catering brings a homey feel to weddings, as large platters are placed at each table, allowing guests to help themselves and pass dishes around. This setup encourages interaction and is often chosen for rustic or intimate weddings, where creating a communal, close-knit atmosphere is a priority.
• Food Stations: These interactive stations add an element of excitement as guests can move around and select from various options, like pasta, seafood, or dessert stations. Each station is often attended by a chef or server, making this ideal for adding flair. However, it may require more space and can be a bit more costly due to staffing needs.
• Cocktail Reception: This style focuses on small bites and hors d'oeuvres, served by passing waitstaff or placed at stations. Cocktail receptions are typically more affordable and suited for shorter or informal weddings. They encourage mingling and can add a lively, social feel to the event.

Budget Considerations

• Estimating Per-Person Costs: Typically, caterers will charge per head, with costs varying widely based on menu choices, location, and catering style. For example, plated dinners tend to be pricier than buffets.
• Additional Fees: Most caterers charge extra for services like setup, breakdown, gratuities, and service fees. Couples should be aware of these add-ons, which can be up to 20% of the catering bill.
• Special Dietary Needs and Alcohol: Gluten-free, vegan, or other specific dietary requests may incur additional costs, as can alcohol service, which is often charged separately. Some couples save by having a “bring your own alcohol” option if the venue allows it.

Interactive Stations

• Food Stations: Examples include taco bars, sushi stations, and pasta bars where guests can customize their dishes. They add an element of personalization and engagement, as chefs prepare items to order.
• Dessert Stations: Create a sweet ending with a variety of options, such as donut walls, cupcake towers, or candy buffets. A popular choice for summer weddings is an ice cream sundae station.

Signature Cocktails & Mocktails

• Couples often create a signature cocktail that has personal meaning, like a favorite drink or something themed after their shared interests. The cocktails can be named after the couple or aspects of their story.
• Non-alcoholic mocktails are increasingly popular, especially for day weddings or for guests who prefer not to drink. Flavored sodas, sparkling lemonades, or fruit mocktails make for refreshing options.

Late-Night Snacks

• As the evening progresses, late-night snacks like mini burgers, hot dogs, or sliders give guests a delicious pick-me-up after dancing. Food trucks serving comfort food like pizza or tacos can add a fun, unique twist to the evening.

Presentation & Table Settings

• Plating and Presentation: Discuss how the caterer plans to present each dish, including garnishes and plating style. Presentation often aligns with the overall wedding aesthetic.
• Table Settings: Confirm what’s included in the catering package, such as plates, cutlery, glassware, and linens. Some caterers provide only food, so you may need to rent items separately.

Food Safety & Handling

• Ensuring food safety is crucial. Licensed caterers adhere to local health regulations to ensure food safety. Ask about their protocol for handling allergies and food sensitivities to prevent cross-contamination.