Choosing The Right Wedding Caterer
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the little details when it comes to wedding planning. Pinterest will have you looking for the perfect accessories or bridal pyjamas from day one… But one element that makes one of the biggest impacts on your day, is the food and drink. I know, rich coming from the event caterer… but hear us out.
Whether you’re hosting an elegant sit-down wedding at a country house or a relaxed sharing style meal at your marquee wedding, the catering you choose will set the tone of your entire event. Not only will the right caterer satisfy your guests appetite, but will elevate the overall experience through taste, dining style and service level.
Chloe Caldwell Photography // Get Wed
Memorable Guest Experience
Food brings people together, and that’s no different on your wedding day. As well as wanting to indulge in food that’s delicious and Guests want to indulge in a meal that reflects the couple’s style, tastes, and values. A skilled caterer can create a memorable dining experience that aligns with your wedding theme and leaves your guests talking about the food long after the event.
For a marquee wedding, where you may have a larger guest list or a more relaxed vibe, working with an experienced caterer ensures that the food complements the overall atmosphere of the day. If you're planning a DIY wedding, you might want a more personalised or creative menu, and the right caterer can help you achieve that.
On the flip side, poor-quality food or service can leave a bad impression and overshadow everything else. A good wedding caterer will ensure that your guests feel pampered and satisfied, providing them with a meal they won’t forget.
Smooth Event Management
The logistics of wedding catering go way beyond food. As part of a catering service, most wedding caterers will provide an event manager who will help liaise with the catering team, your wedding party and other suppliers. Your wedding catering also encompasses table set up and organising an entire team of waiting staff; no mean feat! So, in choosing the right wedding caterer, you’ll ensure the logistics of your day also run smoothly.
Catering event management isn’t limited to the day, either. Behind the scenes, your wedding caterer will assist with the planning of your day. Their past experiences will help them guide you in aspects of wedding planning, including venue sourcing, time management and recommendations of other suppliers.
Wedding Look & Style
Your choice of wedding caterer can also have a direct impact on the look and feel of your special day. It’s important that your chosen caterer suits your chosen wedding theme to avoid your wedding style feeling disjointed. Some caterers are able to adjust their style to suit your theme, but it’s certainly worth asking about visual items such as crockery, cutlery and serviceware. Your DIY style summer marquee wedding lends itself to bright vibrant salads shared across the table, but this style of service may not suit a fine-dining style wedding in a city-centre luxury hotel!
A good wedding catering company will have planners who can help with theming suggestions, and a catalogue of hire options that compliment your chosen look and feel.
Catering For Dietary Requirements
A great wedding caterer will be able to accommodate all your guests’ dietary needs. They should understand the severity of allergies and dietary requirements and respond with knowledge, professionalism and understanding.
Whether it's gluten-free, vegan, kosher, or halal options, your caterer should be flexible and creative in catering to different preferences without affecting quality.
Your Catering Budget
Weddings are expensive, and food makes up a large proportion of your wedding budget. This is one of the reasons why choosing the right caterer is so important; the investment in the right caterer will have you and your guests remembering your day with fondness.
While you shouldn’t compromise on food quality, it's important to find a caterer that can work within your budget. Many caterers offer bespoke packages, which allows you to get exactly what you want without breaking the bank. Be clear about your budget, and a good caterer will be able to guide you in selecting the best options.
A Personal Experience
Finding someone that understands your vision is so important; a good caterer will listen to your personal needs while providing expert advice. Caterers go above and beyond to ensure your day is perfect, and what’s perfect for one person may be different to another. Offering a bespoke service is an important trait of a good wedding caterer. From signature cocktails to a meal that incorporates your favourite family dishes, the personal touch that a quality caterer offers is invaluable and can make your wedding truly unforgettable.
Choosing the right caterer is one of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your special day. It’s more than providing food and drink; it’s creating a memorable experience through food, drink and exceptional service. Whether you’re hosting a traditional reception or a marquee wedding in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, your caterer will be integral to making sure your day runs seamlessly. Take your time to find a caterer who understands your vision, can accommodate your needs, and has the expertise and experience to handle everything from logistics to dietary requirements. Ready to chat with one of our planners? Send us an email!