Most couples spend 30 percent of their wedding budget on food—which can mean thousands and thousands of dollars, all spent in just one day. When money is tight, what should you do? Don’t worry—there are ways to cut your wedding caterer expenses. Here are some ideas:
- Assemble a cheap, but filling buffet spread - Having a buffet means hiring wait staff and servers, and buying more food than what you need to spend for a plated meal. This is why buffets can end up costing more. However, you can save money by tweaking your buffet spread. Instead of expensive dishes, serve home-style barbecues, salads, and filling pastas.
- Avoid full meals - Full meals can be expensive. Late afternoon weddings often end up becoming very expensive because of dinner, so consider having your reception at a different time. Try a morning wedding ceremony so you can serve champagne, coffee, and cake afterward. If you want a more formal event, try a mid-afternoon wedding that will serve cakes, hors d'oeuvres, and cocktails. Try a dessert buffet for a hip or funky wedding that is held later in the evening.
- Go for lunch - Dinners are often expensive because of full-course meals, so consider a late morning wedding or an early afternoon wedding that is followed by a luncheon. Brunches and lunches are often cheaper, as you can serve lighter food like salads and quiches (compared to expensive chicken and steaks that are typically served for dinner).