Having Multiple Caterers At Your Wedding: A Good Idea?

Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when it comes to catering. Hiring two caterers for your wedding is an option, but it's important to consider the advantages and disadvantages. Some couples choose to have two caterers if they want to offer a variety of food options or if their desired venue doesn't offer catering services. Having multiple caterers can increase costs and coordination efforts, but it may be necessary to achieve your vision. It's essential to start planning early, determine your budget, and ask for recommendations to find the best caterers for your special day.

Pros and cons of having two caterers

Having two caterers at your wedding can be a great way to get exactly what you want for your big day. However, there are some pros and cons to consider before making your decision.

Pros

• Variety of Food Options: By having two caterers, you can offer your guests a wider variety of food options, especially if you and your partner have different tastes or cultural backgrounds. This can make your wedding more inclusive and exciting for your guests.
• Speciality Caterers: If you have a specific type of food in mind, such as a crawfish boil or a hog roast, you may need to bring in a speciality caterer to create the dishes you desire. In this case, having two caterers can ensure you get the exact food you want.
• Cost Savings: In some cases, having two caterers can be more cost-effective, especially if one of the caterers is less expensive or you only need to pay for one type of food for a smaller number of guests.
• Backup Option: Having two caterers can provide a backup option in case one of them cancels or doesn't show up. This can give you peace of mind and ensure that your guests are well-fed.

Cons

• Coordination and Communication: Working with two caterers means coordinating with multiple vendors, which can be more complicated and time-consuming. You will need to clearly communicate your needs and expectations to both caterers and ensure they are on the same page.
• Added Expenses: Hiring two caterers can result in added expenses, including the cost of the second caterer and any additional fees for transportation, setup, or other services.
• Space and Logistics: Two caterers may require more space and time for setup, preparation, and serving. This can be a challenge, especially if your venue has limited space or specific restrictions.
• Inconsistent Quality: There may be inconsistencies in the quality and presentation of the food when using two different caterers. This can affect the overall dining experience for your guests.
• Contractual Obligations: Some venues have exclusive contracts with specific caterers or require an additional fee to bring in an external caterer. Be sure to review your venue's policies before making any decisions.

Ultimately, the decision to have two caterers at your wedding depends on your specific needs, budget, and venue restrictions. While having two caterers can offer benefits such as variety and speciality options, it may also come with added coordination, expenses, and logistical challenges. It is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your choice.

How to coordinate two caterers

Having two caterers at your wedding is a great way to get the food you want, especially if you're looking for something specific or unusual. It can be a more complex process than using one caterer, but with careful coordination, you can make it work. Here are some tips on how to coordinate two caterers for your wedding:

Understand Your Needs and Budget

First, be clear about your needs and budget. Consider the type of food you want and the number of guests you'll be serving. If you're having a large wedding, it's important to ensure that both caterers can provide enough food for your guest list. Think about any specific requirements, such as dietary restrictions or allergies, and communicate these to your caterers. Additionally, be mindful of the added expenses that come with hiring two caterers.

Communicate Your Plans to the Caterers

Once you've decided on your caterers, be transparent with them about your plans. Let them know that you're working with another catering company and ensure they are comfortable with this arrangement. It's important to be specific about your needs and expectations to avoid confusion or misunderstandings. Inform both caterers about the presence of the other to prevent any surprises on the day of the wedding.

Provide Detailed Information

Give both caterers comprehensive details about your wedding, including the date, time, and location. Share the timeline for the day, especially if there are specific times when you expect them to set up or serve food. If there are multiple locations involved, such as a ceremony and reception venue, ensure they have the correct addresses.

Manage Transportation and Setup

Consider the logistics of having two caterers on-site. Discuss with them where they will set up their equipment and how they will transport their supplies to the venue. If there are any access restrictions or specific requirements at the venue, inform the caterers in advance. It's also a good idea to designate a point person who can oversee the setup and coordination between the two caterers on the day of the wedding.

Handle Staffing and Service

Find out from each caterer how many serving staff they will provide and ensure it aligns with your expectations and the number of guests. If you require additional staff for tasks like bartending or cake cutting, clarify this with the caterers. Additionally, consider the dress code for the catering staff and communicate your preferences or wedding theme to ensure their attire fits the occasion.

Finalize Menus and Tastings

Work closely with each caterer to finalize your menus and schedule tastings if possible. This is an opportunity to provide feedback and ensure the food meets your expectations. Be mindful of any dietary restrictions and communicate them to the caterers. During the tastings, you can also confirm portion sizes and discuss any adjustments needed.

Stay Organized and Communicate

Stay organized by keeping track of important dates, such as when final decisions or payments are due. Maintain open lines of communication with both caterers and don't hesitate to ask questions or clarify details. It's also a good idea to reconfirm the details with them closer to the wedding date to ensure everyone is on the same page.

By following these steps, you can effectively coordinate two caterers for your wedding and create a seamless dining experience for you and your guests.

Finding caterers that match your wedding theme

Finding the right caterer for your wedding can be a fun but challenging task. To find caterers that match your wedding theme, consider the following:

Ask for recommendations

Your wedding venue may offer catering services or have a list of preferred vendors they've worked with in the past. If not, ask other trusted wedding vendors, such as your wedding planner, for recommendations. You can also check online reviews, ask family and friends, or use social media to crowdsource suggestions.

Start your search early

Once you have a shortlist of caterers, book appointments with them as soon as possible. In-demand caterers can usually only work one wedding per day, so their schedules fill up quickly. Be prepared to move quickly once you find a caterer you love.

Prepare for your appointments

Before your appointments, prepare a list of questions to ask the caterers. Some important questions to consider include:

• Do you have availability on my wedding date?
• Have you catered at my venue before?
• Can you create a custom menu based on my preferences and budget?
• Can we sample some of the food ahead of time?
• What are your most popular dishes?
• Can you accommodate various allergy/dietary requests?
• Will food be made on-site or brought in?
• Do you provide linens, table settings, and accessories?
• What colours and style options do you have for linens, table settings, and accessories?
• Do you provide front-of-house staff (servers), or do we need to hire our own?
• What is your typical server-to-guest ratio?
• Do you have the proper catering licenses and liability insurance?
• What is your cancellation policy?

Consider your budget

Catering is typically one of the most expensive parts of a wedding budget. Be sure to determine your budget before meeting with caterers so that you can have productive conversations about what is possible within your price range.

Be flexible

If you are set on having a specific type of cuisine that your venue doesn't offer, you may need to consider hiring an external caterer. Some venues require the use of their in-house catering team, while others allow you to choose your own caterer from a preferred list or completely freely. Keep in mind that external caterers may come with additional costs and coordination efforts.

Be mindful of your guest count

Most caterers have minimum guest counts, so be sure to have an accurate estimate of your guest list before reaching out to caterers. If you have a small wedding, you may need to be flexible with your catering options or consider hiring servers to help with reheating and serving food if you choose to cater yourself.

Budgeting for two caterers

Initial Considerations:

Before committing to two caterers, it is crucial to assess your budget and determine if you can afford the additional expenses. Having two caterers will likely increase costs, so ensure your budget can accommodate this.

Venue Constraints:

Some venues have specific requirements regarding catering. They may have an in-house catering team, a preferred vendor list, or allow external caterers for a fee. These constraints will influence your decision and budget.

Cost Breakdown:

When budgeting for two caterers, consider the following cost categories:

• Catering Services: Calculate the cost per person for each caterer, taking into account the number of guests and the type of food being served. This will likely be your biggest expense.
• Vendor Meals: Don't forget to include vendor meals in your budget. Wedding professionals working on-site for most of the day should be fed, and their meals should be factored into the overall cost.
• Staff and Equipment: In addition to the food, consider the cost of serving staff, bar staff, and equipment rental (if applicable). Some caterers include these in their package, while others charge extra.
• Coordination: Having two caterers means there will be an extra vendor to coordinate with. Ensure you have the time and energy to manage this additional aspect of your wedding planning.

Tips for Cost Savings:

To stay within your budget, consider the following strategies:

• Choose Casual Dining Options: Opting for casual dining, such as street food vans or buffets, can be more cost-effective than a formal sit-down meal. This can reduce staff requirements and associated costs.
• Compare Packages: Shop around and compare packages from different caterers. Ask for recommendations and read reviews to find caterers who can deliver excellent food and service within your budget.
• Negotiate and Customize: Discuss your specific needs and budget constraints with each caterer. They may be willing to negotiate or create a customized package to meet your requirements.
• Utilize External Vendors: If your venue has an exclusive caterer, consider using external vendors for other aspects of the meal, such as a food truck for late-night snacks or a local bakery for the wedding cake.

Final Thoughts:

While having two caterers can provide greater flexibility and variety in your wedding menu, it also adds complexity to your planning and budget. Be sure to do your research, compare options, and carefully consider the costs associated with each caterer to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

How to find caterers

Having two caterers at your wedding is certainly an option, and it can be a great way to get exactly the food you want. It can also add to the expense and require more coordination, so it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Here are some tips on how to find caterers for your wedding:

Define Your Style

First, you need to figure out what you're looking for to ensure your research is headed in the right direction. Consider what words you would use to describe the food and overall dining experience at your wedding. If you're unsure, try creating a mood board on Pinterest for inspiration. This will help you communicate your vision to potential caterers and narrow down your options.

Check with Your Venue

If you're getting married at a venue, they may have a list of recommended or exclusive caterers. Even if you don't like the caterers on their list, it can still be a useful source of inspiration. Some venues require the use of their in-house catering team or a specific external caterer, so it's important to clarify their policies before making any decisions. If you're allowed to bring in an external caterer, be aware that some venues charge a percentage fee for this, which can impact your budget.

Ask Friends and Family

Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth recommendations! Your friends and family may be able to connect you with caterers they've had great experiences with. Even if they don't have specific recommendations, they can offer insights into what styles of catering to consider or avoid based on their own wedding planning journeys.

Utilize Online Searches

Online searches can be a helpful tool in your quest to find the perfect caterer, but it's important to use specific search phrases to find what you're looking for. Consider using location-specific terms and descriptive words that reflect the style of catering you're seeking. For example, "alternative wedding caterers in [location]" or "rustic wedding catering near me."

Read Reviews

Once you've compiled a list of potential caterers, be sure to read reviews from real couples who have used their services. Websites like The Knot, WeddingWire, and Hitched often feature reviews and ratings that can provide valuable insights into the quality of the food, professionalism of the staff, and overall experience.

Ask the Right Questions

When you reach out to caterers, have a list of questions ready to ensure you cover all the important details. Some key questions to ask include:

• Are you available on my wedding date?
• Can you provide a sample menu or pictures of your food?
• Do you offer a bespoke service or customization options?
• What are your most popular dishes?
• Do you charge per head or a bulk fee?
• Have you worked at my venue before?
• Do you offer food tastings?
• When will you need final numbers and menu decisions?
• What drinks and beverage packages do you offer?
• How many serving staff will you provide?
• Do you provide plates, cutlery, and table linen, or are these rented separately?
• What is your cancellation policy?

Compare and Decide

After gathering information from multiple caterers, it's time to compare their offerings and make a decision. Consider the overall impression they have left you with, including their professionalism, flexibility, and ability to meet your specific needs and budget. Trust your instincts and go with the caterer that feels like the best fit for your special day.

Remember, finding the right caterer for your wedding is a crucial aspect of the planning process. Take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Happy planning!

Frequently asked questions