How to Budget Wedding Catering

It is wise to have a budget before planning anything for your wedding. But catering costs can easily break the bank if you don't plan ahead. Here is your guide to setting a realistic budget for you wedding catering.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Figure out where the funds for your catering budget will come from. If your family promised to help but are now hesitant to provide a commitment, draft your budget so that it excludes their contributions.

2. Get an accurate head count as far in advance as you can. Most caterers price their services according to the price per person so the more you know about who is arriving, the more accurately you can make an estimate as to how much you will need to set aside.

3. Find out ahead of time what types of ingredients your caterer will need and exactly how they will be obtained. If he or she has to unexpectedly ship in exotic food from outside vendors that could seriously blow your budget.

4. Read over the fine print in all your contracts. Reception venues and wedding caterers will sometimes sneak in charges for things that can escalate your budget like linen rentals, cutlery and cleanup. Go over your contracts carefully and clarify any numbers that seem suspect.

5. Decide on how you would like to serve the food. A seated dinner can run almost twice that of a buffet service. Ask your caterer what the difference per person would be if you opted for the latter.

6. Allow extra room in your budget for alcohol. Your guests may end up consuming more than you expected and leave you scrambling for more, which could put a damper on the celebration. Also inquire if they charge a corkage fee as well as whether or not you will need to hire a licensed bartender for an hourly rate.