Catering For Kids: Wedding Meal Planning Considerations

When planning a wedding, it's important to consider whether children should be counted as guests for the purposes of meal planning. While some venues offer to serve 'kids' meals' to anyone 12 or under, it's worth bearing in mind that not all children will be happy to eat 'baby food' and that older children may eat more than younger ones. Some venues don't charge for under-3s, while others offer kids' meals at a fraction of the adult cost. It's also worth considering whether children will need a seat, as even babies may need a chair for their carrier.

Whether or not children count as guests depends on the venue

When it comes to food, it's essential to consider the ages and maturity of the children. Not all children eat the same amount or type of food. While some venues offer kids' meals, others may not, so it's worth asking about this when planning your wedding.

In terms of seating, even babies count as guests. No parent will hold their baby all night, so you'll need to provide a chair for the baby's carrier. If you're having a buffet, your caterer may advise you not to include children under 5 in your guest estimate for food. However, it's worth noting that kids take up more space than adults due to strollers and other items.

Ultimately, the decision on whether or not to count children as guests depends on the venue and their policies. It's essential to communicate with your venue and understand their pricing and occupancy limits to make informed decisions about your wedding guest list and meal planning.

Some venues offer 'kids' meals' to anyone 12 or under

When it comes to wedding meal planning, it's important to consider the ages and maturity of the children attending. Some venues offer kids' meals to anyone 12 or under, but it's worth noting that not all children will be happy to eat "baby food" at a wedding, and some tweens may not get enough to fill up. It's also important to consider the dietary preferences of the children. While some may be happy with chicken fingers and hamburgers, others may prefer to eat the same meal as the adults.

When deciding whether to include children in your wedding meal planning, it's a good idea to check with your venue. Some venues charge for kids' meals at a fraction of the adult cost, while others may offer kids' meals for free. It's also worth considering the number of children attending and their ages. If you have a large number of children, it may be more cost-effective to include them in your meal planning. However, if you have a small number of children, you may be able to get away with not including them.

Another factor to consider is the type of meal service you will be having. If you are having a buffet, your caterer may advise you not to include kids under a certain age in your guest estimate for food. This is because kids often eat less than adults and may not take up as much space on the buffet line. However, if you are having a seated meal, it's important to include all children in your guest count, as they will need a chair and a place setting.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to include children in your wedding meal planning comes down to personal preference and the specific circumstances of your wedding. It's important to consider the number of children attending, their ages, and dietary preferences, as well as the policies and pricing of your venue. By taking all of these factors into account, you can make an informed decision that works best for your big day.

Babies and toddlers may need to be counted separately

When it comes to wedding meal planning, it's important to consider the ages and maturity of the children attending. While babies and toddlers may not consume the same quantity of food as adults, they still need to be factored into your planning. This is because they will require a space to sit and be fed, even if it's just a high chair or a parent's lap.

Some venues offer "kids' meals" to anyone 12 or under, but it's worth noting that not all children enjoy the same foods. A nine-year-old, for example, may prefer to eat turkey with the adults rather than macaroni and cheese or chicken fingers. To accommodate a range of tastes and dietary needs, it's a good idea to offer a variety of meal options for children.

When budgeting for your wedding, it's essential to be mindful of the additional costs associated with children. Some venues charge for kids' meals, albeit at a fraction of the adult cost. Others may offer complimentary meals for children under a certain age, such as five or 12 years old. However, it's crucial to clarify these details with your chosen venue, as policies can vary.

To ensure a seamless dining experience for your young guests, consider providing a separate room or area for them to enjoy their meals. This can be a more relaxed and enjoyable setting for both the children and their parents. By taking these factors into account, you can create a welcoming and well-organised dining experience for your wedding guests, both young and old.

Children may eat less than adults, so could be counted as half a guest

Children may eat less than adults, so it's worth considering counting them as half a guest when planning your wedding meal. This is especially true if you're having a buffet, as caterers often advise not including children aged five and under in your guest estimate for food. However, it's important to remember that children take up more space than adults, so you'll need to consider this when planning your seating.

When it comes to the food itself, it's a good idea to consider the ages and maturity of the children attending. While some venues offer to serve "kid's meals'" to anyone 12 or under, it's worth asking yourself how many tweens will be happy to eat "baby food" at your wedding. It might be more appropriate to offer older children the same meal as the adults, while saving the chicken fingers and chocolate pudding for the toddlers.

It's also worth checking with your venue, as they will have different price brackets and policies regarding children. Some venues don't charge for children under a certain age, while others may offer kids' meals at a fraction of the adult cost. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to count children as half a guest is up to you and your partner, and you should do what feels right for your wedding.

Remember to keep in mind the number of children attending and their ages when making your decision. By considering all of these factors, you can ensure that you have enough food and seating for everyone, and that your young guests are well-fed and happy.

Some caterers advise not counting children under 5 in the guest estimate for food

When planning a wedding, it's important to consider whether children should be counted in the guest estimate for food. Some caterers advise not counting children under 5 in the guest estimate for food, as they may not eat much. This can be a helpful way to reduce costs, especially if you have a large number of young children attending your wedding. However, it's important to consider the ages and maturity of the children when making this decision. Some children may be happy to eat "kid's meals", while others may prefer to eat with the adults. It's also worth noting that children take up space, so you'll need to provide a chair and a plate for each child, even if they're not eating a full meal.

When deciding whether to count children in your guest estimate for food, it's a good idea to check with your venue or caterer. Some venues offer "kid's meals" to anyone 12 or under, while others may have different age cut-offs or charge a fraction of the adult cost for children's meals. Ultimately, the decision of whether to count children in your guest estimate for food will depend on your specific circumstances and budget.

If you're concerned about the cost of feeding all the children at your wedding, there are a few options to consider. One option is to provide a separate room or area for the children, where they can be served simpler, more child-friendly food. This can be a cost-effective way to feed the children without sacrificing the quality of the adult meals. Another option is to offer a buffet-style meal, which can be more flexible and cost-effective than a sit-down dinner.

It's also worth noting that some venues may not charge for children under a certain age, or may offer discounted rates for children's meals. Be sure to ask your venue or caterer about their policies on children's meals, as this can vary depending on the location and package you choose. By considering the ages and maturity of the children, as well as the policies and recommendations of your venue and caterer, you can make an informed decision about whether to count children in your guest estimate for food.

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