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I am slowing getting brain fried over this situation. You go to a bridal show, find a caterer that you like, but you can't find a reception site that allows outside caterers! We want to have a BBQ menu for our reception. We found a great caterer under budget, but I am having the hardest time finding a site that will allow an outside caterer. Can anyone help me on this?
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Open Catered Receptions Sites
#1
dameailean 
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Posted 30 January 2026 - 06:46 PM
#2 Guest_expertplanner_*
Posted 31 January 2026 - 03:20 PM
You are right in that it is difficult to find a site that permits outside catering. That is mainly because catering is a huge revenue generator for many venues. Not to mention, venue owners are looking to protect their interest so even when outside caterers are allowed, there is certain criteria said providers must meet.
What I recommend is this. Your local city should have regional/local bridal sites. It shouldn't be hard to find. Like if you were living in Atlanta, where I am from, you would search for Atlanta wedding reception sites. Then, start going through the bridal listings that come up.
Or, you can go to your local book store and pick up a regional bridal book. They too will have reception sites advertising in them and usually it is clearly stated who permits offsite catering, in addition to how much rental may be.
Once you find wedding reception sites that offer outside catering, when you call be sure to ask these questions.
1. Does the caterer have to have insurance? If so, what kind and how much?
2. Is there a kitchen? (You would be surprised.) If so, is there a kitchen usage fee?
3. Is there a cleaning fee?
4. Will you be able to have a planning session with the venue and your caterer? This is important because all parties need to be in agreement with what will take place on the day.
5. How early can the caterer get in to set up? Caterers need a little longer than other vendors when they are working offsite.
I hope this helps you.
What I recommend is this. Your local city should have regional/local bridal sites. It shouldn't be hard to find. Like if you were living in Atlanta, where I am from, you would search for Atlanta wedding reception sites. Then, start going through the bridal listings that come up.
Or, you can go to your local book store and pick up a regional bridal book. They too will have reception sites advertising in them and usually it is clearly stated who permits offsite catering, in addition to how much rental may be.
Once you find wedding reception sites that offer outside catering, when you call be sure to ask these questions.
1. Does the caterer have to have insurance? If so, what kind and how much?
2. Is there a kitchen? (You would be surprised.) If so, is there a kitchen usage fee?
3. Is there a cleaning fee?
4. Will you be able to have a planning session with the venue and your caterer? This is important because all parties need to be in agreement with what will take place on the day.
5. How early can the caterer get in to set up? Caterers need a little longer than other vendors when they are working offsite.
I hope this helps you.
#3
Nancy Tucker
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Posted 31 January 2026 - 03:42 PM
Rhonda is absolutely correct and may I add that you'll need to know if the kitchen is a cooking kitchen or a warming kitchen. You don't want a caterer showing up ready to cook food with only a microwave or warming oven.
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