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Guest love attending wedding receptions filled with good food, drink
and fun. While the majority of receptions are held in the evening, not all
have to be. Anyone working on a tight
budget could consider
arranging a morning, brunch, lunch, or cocktail reception at a
fraction of the cost. To set the tone simply select a location with
a pleasant daytime view. Those that prefer an evening reception will
find that a buffet dinner will cost less than a formal dinner as
will a paid bar versus and open bar.
Wedding food and drinks need to be planned 6 -12 months before the
wedding day (wedding
planning timeline). Often reception locations are selected because
food and non-alcoholic drinks are offered as part of the package
price. While these venues may not create the cake, they will often
suggest a wedding cake specialist. Most will offer cake
cutting/serving services.
There are also reception locations that will require the services of
a caterer. Be certain to find out what cooking cooling facilities are available at the location to allow the caterer
to plan accordingly. Remember that if a caterer must bring extensive
equipment to the event, the cost will be passed on to you. Many couples forget to deal with the logistical end of
catering including servers. Neglecting these important details can
lead to problems and additional costs. A good caterer will help with
the details, but it is important to know what to ask as well.
Most couples will break the food
budget down into a cost per person
basis. The goal is obviously to get as much quality food as possible
while spending the least amount of money. Options are plentiful and
if the reception and food are planned at the same time options as
the ones mentioned above will be available and can lower the cost of
food significantly.
Non alcoholic beverages are the least expensive option for weddings.
Champagne or sparkling cider should be available for the toast even
with non alcoholic receptions. Often these are included with the
price of the wedding food. If alcohol will be served there will be
more decisions including: open or paid bar,
wine and beer or full
liquor service.
The cost for the cake is also generally determined on a per head
basis. In former years couples ordered a multi tier cake with only
one flavor from the baker. Now the cake can me custom created by a
cake designer. This is just one more thing to plan for when
considering the budget.
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