I just can’t believe how much couples spend on their weddings. So, today, we’re going to look at 10 ways you can save money on your wedding catering.
Weddings are becoming so expensive, I thought I’d give a heads-up so some more economic ways to organize your wedding catering.
Oh, if you haven’t already read my other article on how to save money on your wedding then you can take a look at that too.
I was so surprised (shocked, actually!) to discover just how much weddings cost these days.
So I started to research ways to save you money on your wedding catering, too.
It seems the wedding venue and the wedding catering will be the most expensive part of your wedding costs.
So, we’re going to concentrate on those areas and provide you with some really good tips to save money on your wedding day.
I’ve gathered together 10 essential ways to save money on your wedding catering that I think you’ll find useful. Hope so! 
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure page for more info.
10 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding Catering
TABLE OF CONTENTS ->>
1. Always work out a realistic budget
This is the most important way to save money on your wedding catering.
One of the main reasons couples end up overspending on their wedding reception is not having an accurate guest count.
By over-ordering and having too much food they’ve ended up with a huge catering bill.
Caterers are experts so have a meeting with them and let them know your budget and how many guests you want to invite.
You’ll find they can often work out a menu that suits your needs.
2. Use local restaurant catering to save money
Remember, you don’t have to book an expensive venue to cater for your wedding guests. Many small restaurants also cater to weddings and events.
They may not actively advertise this service, but it can pay to ask them. A great way to save money on your wedding catering.
3. Hospitality program
If you’re a member of a large church, they may have what’s known as a ‘hospitality program’. This is where volunteers come in and cook meals for parties and events like weddings.
They sometimes even donate their own food instead of charging. Alternatively, if you’re REALLY on a tight budget just ask each guest to bring a pot of food.
4. Brunch time
Here’s another great way to save money on your wedding catering. If you’re planning a morning wedding (which is the least expensive) then brunch is a great way to save money.
The reason being, the ingredients are less expensive than the 3-course wedding meal.
5. Bake your own wedding cake
If you’re a dab hand at baking (or know someone who is) then why not create your own lovely wedding cake.
Take a look at Wedding Cakes by Lorelie Step by Step and get some inspiration.
Lorelie Carvey shows you how to make and decorate the perfect wedding cake.
The award-winning pastry chef has spent over thirty years perfecting her techniques. Check out the reviews and price here…
6. But, if you can’t bake a cake…
Even if you don’t bake your wedding cake yourself you can still save money by choosing a simple design.
The average wedding cake costs almost $500 nowadays, so there’s a lot of savings to be made.
Make sure the slices are cut to the right serving sizes or use cupcakes.
Don’t forget to check out your local bakery as their prices are often less expensive than exclusive wedding cake designers.
7. Limit free alcohol to save money on your wedding catering
Another way to save money on your wedding catering is to save on your alcohol bill, especially if you’re offering it for free.
You can do this in a couple of ways, reduce the cocktail hour or eliminate it completely from your wedding.
Some venues even allow your guests to bring their own wine or sparkling beverage to share with their table.
8. Offer plated meals
Instead of having a buffet consider giving your wedding guests a plated meal. This can consist of a meat or a fish portion, a salad, or vegetables and bread.
Offer water, tea or fruit juice (some wine can also be included).
You may also like:
10 Super Ways to Save a Fortune on Your Wedding Day
9. Send hors d’oeuvres out s-l-o-w-l-y
As everyone is always starving at wedding receptions, here’s a great way to save money. Don’t put the hors-d’oeuvres out on a table, they will be devoured in no time.
Instead, have the staff or your volunteers walk around and offer them on trays.
You’ll see how much they will last longer and your guests will feel a little special.
10. Buffet or food bars
If you’d prefer to have a food bar or buffet instead of plated food, then there are still ways to save money.
You can always be a bit quirky and consider a potato bar, a taco bar, or another theme bar that has inexpensive food.
If you choose inexpensive food like potatoes or pasta you’ll find your guests will feel full quickly!
Hopefully, you’ve found some of the 10 essential ways to save money on your wedding catering will help you keep the costs down on your special day.
Here’s the plan:
- Start with a budget
- Know how many guests you need to feed
- Consider the time of day
- How you want people to FEEL.
Good luck!
