First and foremost, be sure to determine your wedding menu budget. You're doomed if you meet with the caterer and view succulent options without having a budget in mind. Make sure you mention your budget with your caterer so they can provide appropriate options. Following are some questions to ask your caterer:
- Which are the least expensive entrees?
- Is a buffet cheaper than a seated dinner?
- Can I provide my own liquor?
- Is serving only wine and beer less expensive than offering a full bar?
- Are food and drinks combined on one bill?
Following are tips for planning a wedding menu on a set budget:
- Serve the meals buffet-style. Ask guests to forego wedding gifts in favor of bringing a dish.
- Consider having an open bar during your cocktail hour, then serving an inexpensive wine with dinner.
- Request that guests RSVP beforehand so you can get accurate counts to the caterer.
- Offer vegetable, fruit and meat platters with dips and crackers, or a soup and salad menu instead of formal entrees.
- Offer a limited bar where you offer an open bar only at certain times such as during your cocktail hour, during toasting, etc. and a cash bar for the remaining time.
- Offer "around the world" appetizers instead of a meal. Appetizer examples include coconut shrimp, Asian lettuce wraps, quesadillas, fried plantains, won tons and jerk pork. The world theme is a fun way to provide your guests with a variety of different tastes.
- Ask a few friends or family members to help serve food or act as a bartender as a wedding gift to you so you don't have to pay for servers or bartenders.
- Opt for a casual outdoor reception which provides the freedom to serve anything you want like barbecue or meals buffet-style.
- Trim the guest list if you can't find suitable options within your food budget.
Find a caterer that will help you plan your wedding menu on a set budget. When planning the wedding menu, make sure you accommodate the needs of your guests, especially those on special diets, vegetarians, and food for children.
Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com. At MyGuidesUSA.com (http://www.myguidesusa.com), you will find valuable tips and resources for handling life's major events. Whether you're planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, you'll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com.
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