Planning a wedding requires preparing months in advance, such as finding professional caterers to accommodate your needs and guest preferences. Skilled caterers can customize a menu that reflects your authentic tastes and budget. Here is a typical timeline for finalizing wedding catering details and menu:
12 to 18 Months Before the Wedding
Several months before the wedding, determine the catering cost, including food, beverage, staff service, and rentals. You could also start researching catering options in your area to understand the price range. Contact multiple caterers to request quotes or attend tastings to assess the quality of their food. Determine how many guests will attend your wedding to know the expected costs.
10 to 12 Months Before the Event
The next step is to work with a wedding catering company to create a preliminary menu based on your preferences, dietary restrictions, and the wedding style. The menu can include tacos, pizza, barbeque, steak, seafood, sweets, and desserts. You could also incorporate wine, beers, signature cocktails, spirits, coffee, tea, lemonade, and sparkling water into the menu. Choose complimentary side dishes, sauces, and accompaniments that pair well with the main courses.
8 to 10 Months Before the Event
Book a tasting session with your caterer to sample the proposed menu items and make necessary adjustments. Check the food presentation, flavor, texture, portion size, and seasoning, and give feedback to your caterer. After that, finalize the contract with your caterer, stipulating all details, including the menu, service staff, equipment, and payment terms.
6 to 8 Months Before the Event
Provide your caterer with the final guest count, as it impacts the quantity of food and beverages needed. During this period, you can discuss the presentation and serving style, such as buffet, plated, and family-style. You could also decide if you want food stations and cocktail reception for your guests. Choose a serving style that aligns with your budget and vision.
4 to 6 Months Before the Event
At this stage, work with your caterer to establish a timeline for the catering setup, service, and cleanup on the wedding day. You can organize a walkthrough of the venue with your caterer to identify designated places for catering setup, food service, and cleanup. Discuss with your caterer when and how long appetizers or cocktails can be served. You can also talk about when the bar opens and closes and when specific drinks could be available.
2 to 4 Months Before the Event
During these months, confirm all details with your caterer, including the menu, serving style, and timeline. You could also confirm and coordinate rentals, such as tables, chairs, linens, and tableware, with your caterer. Experienced caterers can recommend florists and DJs to boost your wedding experience.
1 to 2 Months Before the Event
Some months before the wedding, pay the caterer as outlined in the contract. After making the payment, request a receipt or confirmation from your caterer as proof of payment. This document shows the amount paid, the date of payment, and any remaining balance. Some caterers include gratuity in their service fees, while others don’t.
A Week Before the Event
Reconfirm the number of guests attending, then notify the catering company of any modifications for accurate meal preparation. The discussion could include dietary restrictions, menu adjustments, and timing concerns. Share contact information with your caterer in case of emergencies or last-minute issues.
Wedding Day
The catering team can arrive early to set up the food stations, tables, and other equipment. The catering cook can cook, assemble appetizers, and set up the bar area. You can check if everything is in place and according to plan before the ceremony and reception.
Choose Qualified Wedding Catering Experts
Hire professional caterers who serve delicious and nutritious foods to guests. They can work with you to create a menu with special requests and dietary restrictions. The serving team can restock serving trays and refill drinks to offer guests a pleasant experience.
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