Wedding Catering Tips
Your significant other popped the question and now you’re checking out Dayton wedding venues. As you learn about the cost to host a wedding you may go into sticker shock.
In 2021, there were 2,771,474 weddings held at an average cost of $21,680. The main expenses are a photographer ($2,000), flowers ($1,500), the wedding dress ($1,000), wedding cake ($500), and hair and makeup ($300).
The venue is the most expensive item on the list, averaging $6,000, and costs are going up. Estimates are that by 2024 the average wedding will cost $24,749.
One of the most important areas of wedding planning is choosing a caterer for the reception. Average prices for a buffet are $27 per person. A sit-down dinner cost is $40-$70 per person.
How do you go about selecting the best wedding catering company? Keep reading for tips on selecting a venue, questions to ask the best caterers, and more.
Does Your Reception Venue Cater Food?
Some venues allow you to bring in your caterers, others request you use their food services. If you have concerns about the quality of the wedding food, request a tasting appointment. There may be a charge for this service.
A tasting allows you to select menu items you may want to serve your guests and determine if the quality satisfies your pallet.
Know What You Want
When you consult with a caterer be able to answer the following questions. The more information you provide, the more accurate your quote will be.
- What is the date and time of the wedding and/or reception?
- Where is the event being held?
- How many guests do you anticipate?
- What style of service do you want—buffet or sit-down?
- What is your food budget?
- Do you have any particular foods you want to include?
- Does the caterer include dinnerware and utensils?
- Does the caterer provide staff to service the buffet and/or tables?
- Will you be offering alcoholic beverages, and if so will it be an open bar or cash bar?
- Will your servers help cut and serve the wedding cake?
If the quote comes in higher than your budget, ask where you can reduce costs. Ask the caterer if they have any menu suggestions. They do this for a living and may suggest something you never thought of.
Extra Considerations
When providing a final headcount, add in those who are part of your wedding but not guests. It is considerate to offer a meal to your photographer, band/deejay, wedding day coordinator, and any others helping you put on a successful event.
If you have guests with special dietary considerations, ask if this is a problem. Make sure any special meals are part of your contract.
If your rehearsal is at an all-inclusive venue, ask about a discount if they host the rehearsal dinner and reception. Make sure different selections are available than those being served at the wedding.
One-Stop Shopping
Cut costs and stress by having the ceremony and reception in one location. Golf course weddings provide a beautiful setting and excellent food service.
This open, spacious venue provides plenty of elbow room if you have a large gathering of guests. For a small ceremony, tenting and other accommodations can be adjusted so it looks cozy.
With everything in one location, you have dressing rooms, beautiful settings for your ceremony and photographs, and a catered meal.
While the wedding party is taking photos, arrange for your guests to relax and socialize with a cocktail party on a patio. Everyone can then gather for a beautiful dinner inside the club or under the sun and stars.
The Best Dayton Wedding Venues
When you seek the best Dayton wedding venues look no further than Pipestone Golf Course We can host your ceremony and/or reception. When you plan a wedding with us, every detail of your event will meet your taste.
Start planning your wedding and reception today by filling out our request for wedding information form. You are also welcome to call Pipestone Golf Course at (937) 866-4653 with any questions.