Catering options for the happy couple
A wedding and reception are among the most important days of a couple’s life, and the costs add up quickly. Catering is often one of the biggest items on the budget, which also makes it one of the easiest places to save. Wedding catering ranges from high-end menus to relaxed comfort food, and there is room to save at every level.
Rethink the entrées
Filet mignon, salmon, prime rib and lobster are impressive, but serving them to 100 or more guests is expensive. Swapping in grilled or baked chicken and a good vegetarian dish can cut costs significantly without disappointing anyone.
Choose a caterer who cooks food that both of you and your guests will enjoy, and who is happy to work around your wishes. Some couples even take on part of the catering themselves.
Serving styles that save money
- Build-your-own bar with cured meats, cheeses, fruit and vegetables.
- Simple buffet with several affordable sides and budget-friendly proteins.
- Family-style service, where shared bowls are placed on each table.
Menu ideas
Vegetarian guests will enjoy a vegetable and couscous salad, cucumber rolls filled with fresh greens and peppers, or seasonal salads. For everyone else, try seasonal dishes with flavourful sauces, fried chicken with mac and cheese or mashed potatoes and biscuits, fajitas and tacos, grilled chicken and cherry tomato skewers, or steak with squash and fresh fruit.
Food stations
Food stations are increasingly popular. Tables around the room offer sandwich fixings with salads, fruit and vegetables with dips, or a sushi and Asian food corner, and guests help themselves whenever they like.
Snack stations are a fun twist: a popcorn bar, candy buffet, dessert table, donut wall, pie station with mini pies, or a cookie bar. Adults love them, and children love them even more.
More ways to save
Skip the high-end bakery and buy the cake from a supermarket – Publix cakes are a popular choice – or ask a friend who bakes. Disposable plates, cups and cutlery reduce costs further.
Looking for more business and event ideas? Browse our Business section.
