this is the code for the render ad
Community› Wedding Discussion Boards› Wedding Reception Forum
Wedding Reception Forum
New Discussion

are caterers needed

Jenniferbell2014Jenniferbell2014
in Wedding Reception Forum
I am planning on doing my reception in a large tent at a public park and wonder if caterers are necessary or can we bring our own food? We live in Florida and are not sure if there might be a law that requires caterers with a license. I rather have my family do the food than caterers to save us thousands and because we rather our own food.
Report Reply to Post

Re: are caterers needed

  • AddieCakeAddieCake member
    10000 Comments 500 Love Its Fourth Anniversary 25 Answers
    How will you keep the food at the proper temperature to ensure against potential food poisoning? Who is going to make all the food?
    What did you think would happen if you walked up to a group of internet strangers and told them to get shoehorned by their lady doc?~StageManager14
    image
    Report Reply
  • JMalettasJMalettas member
    500 Comments 100 Love Its Second Anniversary First Answer
    edited July 2013
     I definitely think you need to double check with laws/regulations etc, on food regulations in your area. (You could probably do this at a City Hall type of place). If you are going to be offering liquor, you will likely need a liquor license to be serving alcohol in a public park. (The fine's could be huge without this). 

     Even if you can prepare & serve your own food, I agree with Addie, how to you insure the food is kept at proper temperatures, safe handling procedures are met, etc? You definitely don't want anyone getting food poisoning from your wedding! Not only does a variety of food need to be kept cold at minimum required temperatures, while being stored for safety reasons, but how are you going to keep hot food hot, cold foods cold once served etc? There would be a lot to take into consideration. 

     Also, as Addie mentioned as well, who is going to make everything? Expecting your family to prepare the food for all of your guests would be a *huge* job! Generally this is something you would plan, so your family can enjoy the dinner reception as guests. I'm not sure of your situation, but I personally would feel bad asking family members to take care of the dinner for everyone. Whether they'd be happy to do it, or not. There are definitely ways of going in the direction of a caterer affordably. It just depends on what you're wanting in terms of food. You'd be surprised of the options that are out there once you do a little research. :)

     Good luck to you, regardless of the route you choose!

     *J
    Report Reply
This discussion has been closed.
Choose Another Board
Search Boards