HELP!!!

limegrnchic

So my fiance and i are getting married, still over a year away. In our community however you have to book things way in advance so were trying to figure out our catering options. Were expecting 250 to 300 people at the reception. We have money, and were expecting to spend quite a bit however, we really don't want to spend 3 or 4 thousand dollars on catering. Options?? i don't want to tackle the food myself, that is just asking for trouble! Any ideas??

NOLAbridealmost

Oh boy, I am not sure what standard costs are in Toledo, but 3,000 would be incredibly inexpensive for 250 people in my area. I'd post this on your local board to get a better idea of what is doable. 

kmmssg

Keep in mind that 3000.00 for 300 people is only 10.00 per person and that can be pretty tough to do.

Are you thinking of having a dinner, appetizers, or cake and punch reception?

Milsey32

I would go with pizza, a BBQ, or something else that's simple. We're having 150-175 and spending around $5,000 and that's "on a budget."

SSaltzman87

Getting catering down to approximately $10 per person can be pretty tough. What helps is having simpler food and going outside of a metro area for catering. 

cmp1986

Cut the guest list!! Simple and will save you $$$$

lngtalsali

Wow, unless you do alot of DIY with friends and family, $10 a plate is pretty unrealistic.  I live in a small state with a low standard of living and the bride spent $2700 for 110 guests.  Of course, that included the linens fee and the actual use of the venues and servers.  They had beer and wine only. One suggestion is to do have na afternoon wedding and keep away from the lunch or dinner hour and just have a fruit, cheese, and dessert reception.  My niece did it and that was pretty cool and there were no complaints!

031107

We got married in Cleveland.  We had 65 guests and spent around $3500 for the food (4 course meal) + $500 for wine during dinner.  We did not have a cocktail hour.  Cake was extra.

HYDROPHILE

Don't forget to contact Culinary Arts schools and Tech schools in your area to see if they can cut you a deal on catering.

For 300 people, expect to pay around $6000 for a buffet or simple plated dinner.