|
 |
By Lei Lydle
Founder and Editor
Last Updated: 5/16/2007 8:12:10 AM |
Some of the following tips may help you save on your catering costs:
| |
| |
 |
Choose a reception site that allows you to use an outside caterer. Outside caterers are generally less expensive in all areas. |
| |
| |
|
Have your wedding any day other than Saturday. Many wedding professionals (but not all) will give you a lower rate on days other than Saturday. |
| |
| |
|
Buy your own liquor wholesale if possible. It is SO MUCH CHEAPER to bring in your own liquor - just make sure that the bartenders you hire are actually bartenders. |
| |
| |
|
Avoid expensive menu items such as shrimp and beef tenderloin. Or, if you just have to have shrimp, choose shrimp and select additional lower ticket items such as cheese and crackers, fruit and vegetable tray, etc. |
| |
| |
|
Choose fruits and vegetables that are in season. |
| |
| |
|
For a sit down dinner, avoid having too many courses. Salad, the main course and dessert should suffice. |
| |
| |
|
Don't provide a dessert other than the wedding cake. However, if you choose this option, make sure that you purchase enough cake for all of the guests. |
| |
| |
|
Use a freelance bartender if possible. They are often cheaper than the caterer's bartenders. Again, just make sure the freelance bartender is actually a bartender. |
 |
 |
Chelsea from Michigan says... |
 |
|
I have just one question about food. Only about half of the weddings I have been to have been catered. The rest have all been a variation of a pot-luck. Usually, as part of a gift to the Bride and Groom, some of the close relatives/family friends provide a dish or two. I come from a really big family, and if all of my aunts brought a dish, I know we'd have enough food to feed all of our 200 guests. Is this an okay option? All of the brides I've talked to that have had their weddings catered have had nightmareish experiences, besides catered food isn't appetizing to most children, of which there will be many at my reception. I am afraid that some of my college friends who come from a very different background than I do will find this to be poor etiquette. To be honest, not only do I believe that homemade food tastes much better than catered food, it would also save a lot of money. Any input on my situation would be appreciated. |
 |
|
Posted: 3/20/2007 10:45:57 PM |
|
|
|
