One of the main parts of your wedding day is the catering. Whether you choose to have a formal sit-down meal or you go for an informal selection, you will find that catering will be one of your biggest concerns. If you are looking for an outside caterer, then you can be left feeling overwhelmed with choice, especially if you are just narrowing down your options. Now, to make getting a caterer a little bit easier, here are things you must consider:
Thinking About the Menu
Firstly, start to think about the menu you want to create. For example, are you looking at a menu that is suitable for a spring wedding or one that is for vegetarians? Or are you looking for one that is perfect for winter? It is important to know what you want regarding the menu, as your ideas (and the caterers) will have to mesh effortlessly. If you do not have any ideas about what kind of menu you would like, then start thinking back to previous weddings you have attended. What have they featured on the menu that was successful and well-spoken about? Once you have some of your ideas together, you can then start reaching out to caterers.
Reaching Out to Trusted Caterers
Now that you have put together some ideas for your menu, it is time to start contacting caterers. When you are searching for wedding caterers, you need to be realistic, as good caterers get booked up months in advance. You also need to be open and honest about what you want. Caterers will not have time to keep going back and forth making menu alterations simply because you changed your mind. So, think about this when you are contacting caterers. Build a clear and honest relationship from the start, and you will find you will get professional results and fantastic food in return.
Seeing Previous Work and Events
As you begin to reach out to caterers, it is important to discuss the type of work they have produced before. A caterer that has an excellent reputation will be willing to share photos and testimonials with you from previous clients. When you get to see what previous dishes and menus have been created by a caterer you are interested in, you can see if you are on the same page. If your expectations at this stage are not being met, then move on to another company.
Being Realistic About Your Budget
When it comes to budgeting and spending on caterers, you must be realistic about how much you want to spend (and what you hope to get for this spending). Good caterers do not come cheap, and they usually have a minimum figure per head (or guest) that they work on. Looking in your local area and speaking to previous customers will allow you to see if your budget is realistic or not. Your level of satisfaction at your wedding reception is important. So, always be prepared to pay for high-quality catering, menus, and ingredients, as this will keep you (and guests) happy and content. Do not try and scrimp on the catering, as this will be noticed by all who attend your wedding.
