If you're in the middle of picking out your wedding caterer, you are probably focused on finding the right caterer and picking out the right menu. However, you might also be thinking about what is going to be involved in paying your wedding caterer. If it's your first time having to pay a caterer for a wedding, it only makes sense that you might not know the important things outlined below.
There Are Lots of Ways You Can Save Money
First of all, if you are like many bridal couples, then you might be at least a little bit concerned about how much the wedding catering is going to cost. The cost of the food is typically one of the higher costs that go along with planning and hosting a wedding, but there are plenty of ways that you can save money. Hosting a buffet-style wedding instead of a plated wedding is usually cheaper. Additionally, going with more affordable meats -- such as by serving a chicken dinner instead of steak or seafood -- can help you save a significant amount of money. Your wedding caterer should be used to dealing with couples on a budget and can tell you more about the more affordable options that they offer.
You Should Be Given a Transparent Quote
Once you have picked your menu, provided information about how many people will be attending your wedding, and taken other similar steps, then your wedding caterer should give you a transparent and accurate quote about how much their food and services are going to cost. Make sure that you are fully aware of what will be included in this cost and what you might need to make arrangements for yourself or pay separately for.
You May Have to Pay a Deposit
You might be expected to pay a deposit when you book your wedding catering. Your caterer should let you know how much the deposit is and when it's due. They should also let you know when your final payment is due.
You Should Leave a Tip
It's standard to tip your wedding caterer based on the cost of your final bill, similar to how you would tip a server who waited on you at a restaurant. In some cases, the gratuity might be included in your contract or bill, so you should check this beforehand. If it's not there, then you should leave an appropriate tip. After all, you will probably want to show your appreciation for the person who has worked so hard to prepare and serve food to you, your wedding party, and all of the people who have decided to attend your wedding.
For more information about wedding catering, contact a local service.