Um, did anyone else nearly pass out when they saw their catering estimates? I sincerly cannot believe these numbers and am really pretty much convinced (as of the last 24 hours) that we are basically not going to be able to have the wedding we want simply because of the astronomical prices... something has to give.
The food prices aren't that bad, really -- $21 - $25/ person for plated entrees, $6 for salads, reasonable prices for cocktail hour hors d'ouvers. But the serviceware rentals, the personnel and all the extras (coffee with cake is extra!?!) are insane! More than $1,100 for chairs!?!?
How much of this stuff is negotiable? And how did you get into the negotiation phase of this mess?
Re: Catering
We chose a venue where we could have the ceremony (for a nominal rental fee--less than $500) and reception, and where teh food is cooked by the venue. We are paying $85 pp. It includes tables, chairs, linens, hors d'oevres, appetizer, entree, chocolate-covered strawberries (no cake though--we have to pay for that through a cake baker), and a top-shelf bar with unlimited drinks for each person.
Sorry I am not helping with your catering question. But I wanted you to know that I was in your shoes and ultimately said the hell with it! I'm not dealing with getting nickeled and dimed for everything, and chose a place that included a lot in their menu pricing.
Try shopping around and anything is negotiable. They may not tell you that but dont be afraid to ask. We're going with Basiknead Catering in VA and they really really worked with my budget. Ask for Lena. They also didn't try to nickle and dime me. Ohh and the food was delicious.
Try having the reception somewhere you can bring in your own caterer. Also you can provide your own alcohol and the caterer can just provide the bartenders. Do buffet instead of plated for dinner because the service charge for the waiters is what drives the bill up the most. Thats what we're doing also. For chairs if you want chivari, try DiVinci Floral @ 5.50 per chair and then call DC Rental and ask for if they best prices which they do. Thats als owhat I did and got 160 chairs for 4.25 a piece. Again shop around and ask for discounts of price matching. Be strong and good luck. I know it seems hopeless but it's not. Good luck and happy planning.
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