Your wedding catering may be provided by your wedding venue, or you may want or need to hire an outside caterer. Reading a wedding catering contract can be a bit confusing, but in general, your wedding catering cost will be priced on a “per person” basis. A standard wedding catering package includes the following:
Food: The wedding food cost is the most obvious part of a wedding catering package. You’re paying for the actual food that your guests will eat during cocktail hour and the main meal. Whether it’s served plated or buffet style is up to you and your caterer.
Beverages: Your caterer will likely provide beverages, both alcoholic and not, for your big day.
Staffing: From your event manager to cooks, servers, bartenders, and more, there are lots of staffers that will go into making your wedding day a success. It’s important to work with your caterer to make sure that you have enough people on hand to ensure a smooth reception.
Rentals: Your caterer may also provide rentals, from tables to chairs, dishes to glassware, utensils, and more. Some venues provide these rentals, or you may need to hire a separate rentals company.
Additional fees: Caterers may charge additional costs and fees, including cake cutting fees, corkage fees, and more. Be sure to read your contract carefully—and ask questions—to make sure you understand your wedding catering cost.