Catering Costs: $200 Wedding Plates, Worth It?

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to budgeting for food and drinks. The cost of catering for weddings varies depending on factors such as location, type of food, number of guests, and whether it's a buffet or a seated meal. On average, catering costs $62 per plate, but this can range from $35 to over $200 per plate. For example, a basic taco bar might cost $15 per person, while a luxurious lobster and steak dinner could be upwards of $500 per plate. When planning a wedding, it's essential to consider the number of guests and the type of service, as this will determine the number of plates required and the overall catering cost.

The cost of wedding plates varies depending on location and type of plate

Location

The cost of a wedding, and therefore a wedding plate, can vary significantly depending on location. For example, the average cost of a wedding in the United States in 2020 was $20,300, but this varied by as much as $18,063 between states. The most expensive state to get married in was Massachusetts, with an average cost of $30,489, whereas the cheapest was Arkansas, closely followed by West Virginia.

Even within the 20 largest metropolitan areas in the US, the average cost of a wedding can vary by $13,653. The cheapest place to get married among these metros is Tampa, Florida, with an average cost of $20,044, whereas the most expensive is the San Francisco Bay Area, with an average cost of $33,697.

Type of Plate

The type of plate you choose for your wedding will also affect the overall cost. Here are some options to consider:

• Disposable plates: Disposable plates are a more affordable option, especially if you have a large number of guests. They also offer the convenience of hassle-free clean-up after your wedding. However, they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as ceramic or china plates.
• Ceramic or china plates: Renting or purchasing ceramic or china plates can be more expensive, especially if you have a long guest list. However, they can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your wedding tablescape.
• Charger plates: Large decorative plates that sit beneath the dinner plate can enhance the aesthetic of your table setting. Charger plates are typically used for decorative purposes and are not meant for food.

When choosing the type of plate for your wedding, it's important to consider your budget, the number of guests, and the desired aesthetic for your event.

Other Factors Affecting Plate Costs

In addition to location and type of plate, there are a few other factors that can impact the cost of wedding plates:

• Number of guests: The number of guests you invite will directly impact the number of plates you need, which will affect the overall cost. It's generally recommended to have a few extra plates on hand to account for unexpected guests or broken plates.
• Menu and service style: The type of food you serve and the service style (plated dinner, buffet, cocktail party, etc.) will also influence the number of plates you need. For example, a formal seated dinner typically requires more plates per person than a buffet or cocktail party.
• Rental or purchase: You may choose to rent plates for your wedding, which can be more cost-effective than purchasing them, especially if you opt for premium plates such as ceramic or china.

Disposable plates are hassle-free and more affordable

Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, with many decisions to be made. One of the most important considerations is the dinnerware, and whether to opt for disposable plates or traditional china. While some may view disposable plates as a cheap option, they offer a hassle-free and affordable solution for your big day.

Cost-Effective

One of the biggest advantages of disposable plates is their affordability. Renting plates can be an expensive investment, costing up to $10 per guest, and even more in certain cities. Disposable plates, on the other hand, are a budget-friendly alternative, often costing four times less than ceramic or porcelain plates. This is especially beneficial if you're planning a large wedding with many guests.

Hassle-Free Clean-Up

Another convincing feature of disposable plates is the ease of clean-up they offer. Unlike traditional plates, disposable plates don't need to be washed, saving you time and effort. Simply discard them after use, making post-wedding clean-up a breeze. This is particularly advantageous if your wedding is not held in a banquet hall, as you won't need to worry about managing the clean-up yourself.

Elegant and Stylish

Disposable plates have come a long way in terms of design and style. Today, you can find elegant, sleek, and trendy disposable plates that rival the look and feel of premium-quality plates. They come in various colors, styles, and designs, allowing you to choose plates that match your wedding theme and add a touch of romance to your tablescape.

Lightweight and Easy to Carry

Disposable plates are lightweight and not as fragile as other plate materials. This makes them ideal for destination weddings or outdoor settings, reducing the risk of breakage during transport. They are also practical for cocktail hours, as your guests can easily carry them while mingling.

Eco-Friendly Options

If you're concerned about the environmental impact of disposable plates, there are now many eco-friendly options available. Biodegradable plates made from sugarcane or other compostable materials offer a sustainable alternative to traditional disposable plates.

In conclusion, disposable plates offer a hassle-free and affordable option for your wedding. They are cost-effective, easy to clean up, stylish, and lightweight. With the variety of elegant designs available, you can create a beautiful tablescape without breaking the bank. So, if you're looking for a practical and stress-free solution for your big day, disposable plates are definitely worth considering.

The number of plates required depends on the number of guests and type of service

The number of plates you'll need for your wedding depends on several factors, including the number of guests, the type of service, and the menu.

As a general rule of thumb, it's recommended to have at least three plates per guest for a formal seated dinner. This includes one plate for the main course, one for a salad or starter, and a third for side dishes. For a buffet-style reception, two dinner plates and two side plates per guest are usually sufficient. However, it's always a good idea to have some extra plates on hand, as guests may opt for a fresh plate for seconds or to separate different foods. Aim for 10-20% extra plates to prevent any last-minute inconveniences.

When estimating the number of plates needed, it's crucial to consider the number of guests. Create a guest list and confirm attendance to get an accurate count. It's better to overestimate and have some spare plates rather than run out. For example, if you're expecting 150 guests, it's recommended to have around 250 plates or even 300 to be on the safe side.

The type of service you choose will also impact the number of plates required. For a formal seated dinner, each guest will typically need a minimum of three plates. In contrast, for a buffet-style reception, guests may use multiple plates to serve themselves from different food options. In this case, aim for 2.5 plates per guest.

The menu you choose will also play a role in determining the number of plates. If you're serving a multi-course meal with appetizers, a main course, salad, and dessert, you'll need a separate plate for each course. Simplifying your menu and serving fewer courses can reduce the number of plates needed.

In addition to the plates for dining, don't forget to include dessert plates in your calculations. As a rule of thumb, it's recommended to have at least two dessert plates per guest, and you may need more if you're serving multiple dessert options.

It is recommended to have 3 plates per guest at a formal seated dinner

When it comes to weddings, the dinnerware you choose is an important part of your reception. It is recommended to have three plates per guest at a formal seated dinner. This includes a bread plate, a salad plate, and a dinner plate. Depending on your menu, you may also need a bowl for soup and a dessert plate.

Calculate the Number of Plates Needed

Start by confirming the number of guests attending. It is suggested to multiply this number by 1.75 or 2 to ensure you have enough plates and account for any unexpected guests or broken plates.

Choose the Right Plates

The plates you select should complement the theme and décor of your wedding. For instance, rustic weddings may favour plates with earthy tones or wooden textures, while elegant affairs might opt for classic white plates with gold or silver rims.

Consider Your Budget

Your budget will influence the type and quantity of plates you can rent or purchase. If you want to impress your guests with exquisite tableware, ceramic or china plates are a good choice, but they can be more expensive. Disposable plates are a more affordable option, especially for larger weddings, but may not make the same aesthetic impact.

Plan for Different Courses

In addition to the main course, consider the number of plates needed for other courses. For example, you may need salad plates, dessert plates, and bread plates. It is recommended to have a separate plate for each dish to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Don't Forget the Extras

It is always a good idea to have some spare plates. You may need extras for last-minute guests or unexpected breaks. Having 10-20% more plates than your guest count is generally a safe bet.

Think About the Overall Tablescape

Remember that your plates are part of the overall tablescape and should complement your table décor. Using different plate styles and designs can create a layered look that enhances the visual appeal of your tables. Charger plates, for instance, can add a pop of colour or pattern to your tablescape while also serving a functional purpose.

In summary, it is recommended to have three plates per guest at a formal seated dinner, but you may need more or less depending on your specific wedding arrangements, menu, and the number of guests. By following these tips, you can ensure you have the right amount of dinnerware to make your wedding reception a success.

The average cost of a wedding in 2020 was $20,300

The average cost of a wedding in the US in 2020 was $20,286, a decrease of 21.6% from 2019. This figure is based on an average guest count of 108 and includes the cost of food, drinks, attire, accessories, entertainment, flowers, decorations, gifts, tips, stationery, photography, and videography.

The cost of a wedding plate can vary significantly depending on various factors, such as the type of plate, the number of guests, the menu, and the style of service. While it is challenging to provide an exact cost per plate, it is safe to assume that the average cost of $20,286 for a wedding with 108 guests would result in a cost of more than $200 per plate. This estimate considers that the cost of food and drinks is a significant portion of the total wedding expenses.

Disposable plates, for example, are a cost-effective option and can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of ceramic or other types of plates. However, the number of plates required depends on the number of guests and the number of courses served. For a wedding with 108 guests and a three-course meal, approximately 300 plates may be needed, including dinner plates, salad plates, dessert plates, and bread plates. This would bring the cost per plate to around $68, assuming an average price range for disposable plates.

It is important to note that the cost of a wedding plate can vary depending on the location and the type of wedding. For instance, weddings in New York City tend to be more expensive, with an average cost of $50,000, while weddings in Cleveland, Ohio, have an average cost of $22,000. Additionally, the style of service can impact the number of plates required. A formal seated dinner may require a minimum of three plates per guest, while a buffet-style reception may only need two plates per guest, plus extras.

When planning a wedding, it is essential to consider all expenses, including the venue, catering, rentals, attire, accessories, entertainment, flowers, decorations, gifts, tips, stationery, photography, and videography. While the cost of a wedding plate can be a significant expense, it is just one aspect of the overall wedding budget.

Frequently asked questions