Delicious Details: Catering for Your Big Day
As you plan your wedding, food and drink are an essential part of setting the tone for the entire celebration. From the hors d’oeuvres and drinks served during your cocktail hour to the choices of main courses and dietary options you provide to your guests, your catering choices will help make your day unforgettable. Here are some key questions to consider:
Menu Options and Flexibility
- What types of cuisine does the hotel offer?
- Can the menu be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free, or cultural cuisines)?
- Are there children’s meal options available?
- Do they offer wedding cake design services or would they allow a wedding cake to be brought in?
Tastings
- Do you have an opportunity to meet with the executive chef?
- Is a tasting session included in the wedding package?
- How far in advance can the tasting session be scheduled?
Bar and Beverage Services
- What bar packages does the hotel offer?
- Can specific wines, beers, or signature cocktails be added to the menu?
- Are bartending services included, or is there an additional fee?
Presentation and Service
- How will food and drinks be presented during the event?
- Will banquet staff be available to serve food and drinks throughout the evening?
- How many meals are being served, for example, is there a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres while you’re taking photos or will the evening end with a dessert buffet?
Policies and Costs
- Are there additional fees, such as corkage or cake-cutting charges, service fees?
- Are tips to service personnel included or handled separately?
- What is the timeline for finalizing the guest count?
Stay tuned for Part 3: Entertainment, Vendors, and Creating Atmosphere
