Choosing a caterer is a major part of a couple's wedding planning. You want great food and a beautiful setting, but your budget may be feeling a bit strained. Read the Missouri Wedding Catering Guide to help you select the perfect caterers at a price you can afford.
Selecting a caterer will be much easier if you do some basic homework before starting your search. First, decide what type of food you will be serving. What type of food does your venue suggest? A traditional hog roast is perfect for your Western-style wedding, but might conflict with a dolphin theme. Most caterers have a specialty. If you or the majority of your guests are vegetarians, you want to find someone who can work magic with fruits and vegetables. For an afternoon wedding, look to tea houses and specialty bakeries for finger sandwiches and pastries. For a wine-themed wedding, delicate crab cakes, stuffed mushrooms and chocolate dipped strawberries will compliment the different flavors and bouquets. You can save yourself hours of time and stress by focusing on the type of food you wish to serve.
What services do you require? Are you going to need full place settings and waiters for your sit down dinner or do your plans lean more toward a buffet and open seating? Full service caterers are fantastic if your budget will allow for them. Every detail is taken care of and your stress becomes a caterer's moment to shine. Linens, fountains, and cutlery are all provided by companies such as Above and Beyond Catering in Kansas City. If your budget is feeling the strain of your other plans, look into using some à la carte services. Skip the linen table clothes and the champagne fountain and concentrate on the food. Include table cloths and buffet accents in your decoration plans. Check with your venue for ideas. Many larger venues offer catering services and this can be a nice option if they include clean up in the charges.
Before deciding to try and save money by having a friend or family member handle the food on your wedding day, carefully consider your options. Even if your cousin just graduated from culinary school, you are asking for a big favor. Being in charge of the food means no dancing, laughing or pictures for this person. The pressure of cooking and presenting food to so many relatives would be a heavy burden for the most experienced chef. If you're having your garden reception in his parent's manicured backyard, consider catering the food portion. Your cousin can help with setting up the food and offer her signature spinach canapes while everyone gathers from the ceremony.
The best way to find a reputable caterer is by recommendation. Families who have hosted reunions, anniversary parties or corporate events are good sources for referrals. Look for references from similarly-themed events. A fantastic choice for elegant tea sandwiches and airy treats might not be your best choice for creating the smokey, pulled pork sandwiches your county wedding needs. Call area caterers and plan for some taste testing. Reputable professionals will be willing to let you sample their talents and should be able to provide several clients as references. Once you find a caterer, listen to their advice. Professional chefs are passionate about food and its presentation. Let them suggest side dishes and appetizers to complete your menu. You don't have to go with lobster bisque just because a caterer offers it, but do listen to their advice on potato salad or breads.
The food for your reception is a matter of personal choice and is your gift to your guests and family. Eating together is a traditional way for two families to begin to form the bonds which will sustain you for a life time. Be thoughtful with your menu choices. Then sit down together and enjoy a first meal with the new family your marriage created.
» State Wedding Guide » Missouri Wedding Guide » Missouri Wedding Catering
|
TODAY'S SURVEY
RELATED ARTICLES
|
Missouri Wedding CateringCelebrate your wedding in style by choosing the perfect Missouri caterer for your reception.Written by: Caroline Retzer
|