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When you must use an in house caterer, there is not much you will be able to do to save money other than choosing less expensive food items. A buffet tends to be cheaper than a sit down dinner, and a soda only reception is cheaper than a reception with a full bar.
Discuss your options with the venue’s caterer prior to finalizing your menu details. Many caterers offer a wide variety of services, ranging from hot and cold appetizers, to buffet or served dinners, your choice of bars and some caterers will even include the cake.
The actual food served can save you money as well. Cheaper dishes such as pasta or chicken can be just as lovely, but less expensive than pricey cuts of meat or expensive seafood dishes.
If you want some of the expensive meat or seafood dishes, work with your caterer to see if they can do a seafood appetizer instead of the main course. Your guests will enjoy mini-crab cakes rather than having them as a meal and you will save money.
Being able to hire an outside caterer will give you a lot of room to compare services and prices. Research caterers in your area; the reception venue should be able to recommend caterers that other brides have used, or you can search on the internet or specialized wedding websites.
Word of mouth is also a great resource – talk to people you know who are newly married, or who have attended weddings recently. Make a list of caterers that you are interested in, and ask them the following:
Price per Person– get an idea of their price per head for a buffet dinner, a served dinner, including/excluding appetizers, with/without a full bar, etc. You want to get a price quote for every scenario to really compare prices to other caterers. Many caterers will supply you with a printout listing of their prices.
Staff – find out how many staff will be in attendance on the wedding date. This is usually dependant upon if your dinner is seated or buffet, if you will need a bartender, and how many guests you are having.
Cake – find out if cake is included with the catering services. If cake is not included, find out if your caterer will charge a fee to cut and serve an outside cake.
Bar – find out if the caterer can provide a bar and alcohol (if desired) and if they will be providing their own bartender(s).
Centerpieces – sometimes a caterer will provide their own centerpieces at no extra charge
Alternative meals – instead of a buffet or seated dinner, are they willing to accommodate a cake and champagne brunch, or an appetizer only event?
When researching your catering options, also take into account if you will be serving alcohol.Once you have narrowed down your choice of caterers, set up a time with each to see them at an event and to taste their food. Bring your fiancéor another person close to you while tasting, and take notes while you are there.
Choose the caterer that best fits your needs and budget.