How Much Should You Spend on Catering a Wedding Reception?

Have a food budget in mind before meeting with the caterer.

Buffet Lines are Less Expensive

Buffet lines are typically less expensive than plated meals, and are catered by the same staff. Prices for a buffet meal may range from $20 to $45 a plate, based upon the menu selection.

Plated Dinners Look Nicer

Plated diners served by wait-staff look nicer and help lend a sophisticated feel to a wedding. Plated dinners may start as low as $40 and go up, based upon a menu selection. Additional services such as adding chargers and placing the silverware may be optional, but help the table look prettier.

Bottom Line

Have a spending budget in mind before you meet with the caterer or wedding venue. Keep in mind that menu prices may range greatly based upon the seasonal ingredients and the number of guests on your list. Look to cut costs by adding less-expensive foods, such as pastas or meats such as ham. Avoid menus with labor intensive foods which are difficult to prepare for such a large group.

References

• Catering Services Directory: How to Cut Your Wedding Catering Bill Costs
• Meeting House: Menu Prices