It’s your big day. Your biggest day.
When it comes to a wedding, we all have our vision of what “perfect” looks like. This can be something as simple as ensuring your close friends and family are present, to picking the perfect centrepieces for each table of guests.
The truth is, it’s your big day and it should be exactly how you plan it, no matter how simple or extravagant it might be. While we can certainly point you in the right direction when it comes to choosing florists, venues, or the perfect band or DJ, our specialty however, is food. We’ve been fortunate enough to be catering large and small weddings (and many other events) for over eight years and have learned a lot in the process.
So, we thought it would be helpful for those in the process of planning a wedding to share some insights on what really matters when choosing a catering company for your big day.
Let’s Be Honest About Budget
Budgets are often the primary concern for most couples and with good reason. As with any event, budgets are in place to keep costs on track and should be adhered to without exception. This is specifically important when it comes to food and beverage service.
As one can imagine, a five-course dinner paired with an open bar looks a lot different from a simple spread of canapés with champagne and a cash bar. The point is, you will want to be sure to get everything in terms of food and beverage down on paper and to discuss it in detail with your caterer. This not only informs your caterer of your preferences and expectations but also opens the lines of communication with regards to budget. The sooner you are honest with both your expectations and what is possible within your budget, the sooner you and your catering company can create a plan that works to satisfy all.
Flex Your Creative Muscle(s)
The days of cookie-cutter weddings are becoming more of a thing of the past. While there are traditional elements of some sort incorporated into most weddings, couples, planners, and caterers are constantly innovating. Beyond venue and décor, food and beverage offerings are have benefited immensely from fearless and creative couples and chefs alike.
While we certainly still do a number of multiple-course menus, the offerings have been changing. Rather than simple chicken or fish dishes, main courses have transformed into more inspired creations such as miso-marinated cod or duck confit, while appetizer courses can include pork carnitas tacos, chicken samosas, bison tartare, and lamb lollipops to name a few.
First Impressions Matter
While you might have given your significant other a shot at a second date, you don’t exactly have the option with your wedding caterer. Planning a wedding is not easy and be challenging for couples and their families as they work through the process. When choosing a caterer, be sure to have an in-depth introduction not only to the individuals inside the organization but also with their food.
Many caterers will offer a sample experience, allowing couples to meet the people who will be catering their wedding as well as a sampling of the food they create.
Choosing a caterer for your wedding is not like speed dating. Instead, insist on being wined and dined. Ensure you are swept off your feet (again) and most importantly, enjoy the courtship phase that is the wedding catering process. In doing so, you will undoubtedly ensure the food and beverage portion of your wedding will be as memorable and delicious as you had hoped and planned for.