Keep the Caterting Simple
The goal is to have a memorable, enjoyable and affordable wedding reception. It can be done and still kept in abudget-friendlymanner. The first thing you should do is determine what the budget really is. It is not worth going into debt for a party. So get a firm number so that you can begin to look at options.~ Decide on food optionsThere are so many options now and the “traditional” is not expected for every couple. You may choose to go traditional and served a three course meal for your guests. You may elect for the more contemporarydessert barinstead of a meal.One very formal wedding offered a very fun reception of a “build your own sundae bar”. The children were not invited to the wedding, but were there for the reception. It was a great reception for that couple. Cake and ice cream seem a fitting celebration.Some couples choose to have a simple cocktail party reception with hors devours, drinks and conversation.~ Shop caters with your food decisions madeIf you are planning a full course meal, it is a good idea to have at least two choices, one being vegetarian. It is less expensive to offer two different main courses, but keep all the sides the same. Remember a reception is not a restaurant where people will order off the menu.Have guests RSVP. It is important to know how many to plan for.Do your homework on costs before asking for bids from caterers.~ Don’t be “shamed” into changing your plansThe job of catering sales person is to make the most money that they can on every event. They will do their best. Stay firm on the decisions that you have made. If the person stoops to phrases like “you don’t want guests to be disappointed”, find a more creative caterer.~ Open barThis is one of the most expensive parts of a reception. There are great ways to make anopen barwork and still not spend a fortune. First, limit the time the bar is open and free. This accomplishes a couple things. People will have time to be prepared to drive if there is a time limit. If they still want drinks it can be changed to a pay by drink, but it must be clearly marked and guests need to know ahead of time. It can also be changed to punch and mocktails after the first hour.An open bar does not have to mean a full bar. You can offer a menu of affordable drinks and two choices of wine, one white, one red. This is perfectly acceptable.~ Limit the reception timeHosting a wedding is extremely emotional and tiring. Often times people plan a long reception and the couple is so exhausted, they do not remember half of it. So keep it short and simple. You’ll be happier.
