The food at your wedding reception will be one of the most memorable aspects of your special day, so it's important to get it right. What is the secret to knocking your wedding menu out of the park? Finding the perfect person to manage your kitchen. Your wedding caterer will be responsible for hors d'oeuvres, late night snacks, and everything in between, so take the time to search for the right one.

Catering plays an important role in the success of your wedding reception. John from Platters Catering gives us some tips to ensure that you're making the right decision:

ASK THE QUESTIONS:

Ask all the questions that you think of, even the ones you think don't matter! The food for your wedding is one of the most important parts to your wedding, so you need to make sure it's perfect!

RESEARCH THE WEDDING CATERER:

It's not always about the price! For sure price is always a factor for your special day. However, research the caterer as the reviews can speak higher than the price tag. Utilize search engines, wedding directories, and review websites to find caterers in your area. Read reviews, check their websites, and browse through their portfolios to get a sense of their style and expertise. Wedding expos provide an opportunity to meet caterers in person, sample their food, and discuss your requirements. This firsthand experience can assist in finding a caterer that matches your preferences.

FOOD OPTIONS AND FLEXIBILITY:

See if your caterer can customize the menu for you. "At Platters Catering, we have a standard menu. However we welcome out couples to customize their menu so it's exactly what they want for their wedding. Whether it's homestyle comfort food or five star fine dining, nothing is off limits with us!" - J

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS:

Today, many people have dietary restrictions, whether due to health reasons, allergies, or personal choices. Ensure your menu has options for vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free guests, and others with specific dietary needs.

RENTALS, DECOR AND MORE:

Check with the caterer to see if you can rent cutlery, dishware, glassware, tables, chairs, linens etc. It makes everyone's life easier if you can get everything from one company. You'll have less bills, deposits and e-mails to deal with!

BOOKING YOUR CATERER:

It's advisable to book your wedding caterer as early as possible. Ideally 9 to 12 months in advance. Popular caterers tend to have busy schedules, especially during peak wedding seasons. Securing your caterer well in advance ensures their availability and gives you ample time for menu planning and other preparations.

Whether it's a traditional plated dinner, family-style affair, casual buffet or cocktail event with just hors d'oeuvres, the meal service you decide on for your wedding reception will largely influence the overall vibe of the celebration. It's important to know if a caterer can accommodate a meal service style that matches your vision.

Catering is an important part of your wedding and can significantly contribute to the overall experience for you and your guests. By following these tips, conducting thorough research, and carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can find the best wedding caterer who will help create a memorable culinary experience on your special day. Remember to communicate clearly, stay organized, and enjoy the process of selecting the perfect caterer for your wedding.

Featured in the Spring/Summer 2024 issue of The Wedding Ring Magazine

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PLATTERS CATERING | To speak with Platters Catering about your wedding options, you can reach them using the form below.