[hmaki1234]

I don't want my wedding to seem cheap or like I cut costs on my guests at all. I want it to be elegant but fit my strict budget. The reception will most likely be in the afternoon so a meal will most likely be served, but are there any pointers you have for cutting the costs when it comes to caterers and serving meals? I don't want to serve heavy appetizers or serve hot dogs/hamburgerers either. We won't be having a cocktail hour--we'll most likely have some snacky foods (nice ones) and then serve a meal either plated or buffet style (also--which one do you think is more cost effective--plated or buffet?)
Thanks! [:)]

This post has been edited by TWQadmin: 05 January 2026 - 07:00 AM

[Etiquette Now]

Dear Heather,

This really isn't my department, but I know a bit about what is reasonable here in my neck of the woods.

We have some restaurants who cater who don't charge much. This seems to be a very inexpensive way to go. It appears as if the buffet is the least expensive here. The cost rise significantly with hiring help.

I recently attended a reception where the food came from a well known family restaurant, which specializes in great ham. It was good and I wouldn't have known where it came from. The one drawback for the family was that they had to rent everything to serve their guests. Plus, they had to set it up and hire someone to maintain it. But, we guests never knew.

So, it will take some research on your end to find out who is catering and serving in your area and how much work you wish to do.

Best wishes,

[The Video Pros]

Depending on the venue, such as hotels, quite often they require you to utilize their staff, equipment, and food for meal prep. You can save money by renting a venue that does not have this requirement. Many Inns will allow you to bring your own caterer.

Regarding the catering situation, be sure and interview several. Check the local phone book and see who is "new" in the area. Meet with the start up companies as well. Just because they are new in business doesn't mean they are not experienced. Quite often, new small start up catering companies received their training from large venue hotel chains, and are quite familiar with handling very large events.

See if you can negotiate with the caterer a reduced price by allowing them to directly mail to your guest list a letter of introduction and survey card to provide feedback on the service, taste, and presentation of the meal. Seldom is this opportunity provided to caterers, and gathering this helpful information allows them to improve their business.

Since the caterer would be sending the information with your permission, you might also suggest that they provide a referral discount to your guests as an incentive and in exchange for them taking the time to answer the survey. In other words, have them include something like "Completing this survey entitles you to receive a 10% discount for our services. Offer good until......."