Wedding Food Packages: Unraveling The Complete Catering Experience

what does a package mean for wedding food

Wedding packages are a great way to simplify the planning process for couples. They typically include everything needed for the wedding ceremony and reception, such as venue rental, catering, decorations, and even the services of a wedding planner. These packages are often tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the couple, allowing them to choose from various options such as different ceremony locations, reception venues, and menu choices.

One of the main advantages of wedding packages is that they integrate services to create a cohesive theme for the catering and overall event. This ensures that all the components of the wedding work well together. Wedding packages also save couples from having to coordinate with multiple vendors, allowing them to focus on enjoying their special day.

Characteristics Values
Food Pre-wedding brunch, reception appetizers, and dinner
Beverages Hard and soft drinks
Staff Set up, serving, tending bar, refilling, clearing tables, and cleaning up
Furnishings Tables, chairs, plates, serve ware, glasses, and utensils
Ancillary services Cake cutting assistance, champagne fountain assistance, and corkage fees

shunbridal

Food and drink

Catering Services

The primary component of a wedding catering package is, of course, the food. This includes all the meals served at various events surrounding your wedding, such as a pre-wedding brunch, reception appetizers, and the main wedding dinner. Catering services can be tailored to your preferences, with options for tableside service or buffet-style dining.

Beverages

Wedding packages may also include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic drinks, also known as "hard beverages," may be provided through a subcontracted bartender or directly by the catering service. Non-alcoholic or "soft beverages" are typically served at a bar, on a separate buffet table, or directly to guests at their tables.

Staff

Staff members are an essential part of your wedding package. They will handle all the duties related to food and beverage services, including setup, serving, bar service, refilling drinks, clearing tables, and cleaning up. The staff will be uniformed and maintain a professional appearance and demeanour throughout your event.

Furnishings and Decor

A comprehensive wedding catering package may also include furnishings such as tables, chairs, plates, glassware, and utensils. Some caterers even offer decorative items like centrepieces and table lighting, enhancing the ambiance of your wedding venue.

Ancillary Services

Caterers may also provide ancillary services such as cake-cutting assistance, champagne fountain assistance, and corkage fees. These additional services can be extremely helpful and ensure a seamless experience for you and your guests.

Customisation

No two weddings are exactly alike, and wedding caterers understand the need for customisation. Most caterers offer a range of packages and are usually happy to add or remove items to suit your specific needs. You can discuss your preferences with your caterer and create a package that aligns with your vision and budget.

Cost Considerations

When considering a wedding package, it's important to understand the pricing structure. All-inclusive venues may charge a rental fee along with per-person catering costs, or they may charge based on the number of guests without a separate rental fee. Be sure to ask about any additional costs for upgrades or extras, as these can significantly impact your final bill.

In conclusion, wedding packages are designed to simplify the planning process and ensure that your special day runs smoothly. By choosing a package that suits your needs and customising it to your preferences, you can focus on enjoying your wedding day with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and exceptional service.

shunbridal

Staff

Planning and Management

Wedding planning can be a complex and time-consuming process, so a dedicated wedding planner can be a valuable addition to your package. They will handle the end-to-end planning and management of your wedding, including booking venues, sourcing and managing vendors, budgeting, creating timelines, and coordinating logistics.

Catering Staff

Catering staff are responsible for providing a delicious dining experience for you and your guests. This includes preparing and serving food, setting up buffet stations or plated dinner services, and accommodating any dietary requirements. They work behind the scenes to ensure a seamless dining experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your celebration.

Bartenders

Experienced bartenders are crucial for crafting signature cocktails, serving beverages, and ensuring your guests' glasses are never empty. They can also assist with setting up and managing the bar area, including stocking beverages and providing glassware.

Production Assistants

Production assistants are the behind-the-scenes heroes who ensure the smooth execution of your wedding. They may handle tasks such as guest check-in, escorting guests to their seats, and supporting the setup and teardown of the event. They work diligently to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

Entertainment and Music

Depending on your preferences, your wedding package may include a DJ, live musicians, or other entertainment vendors. These professionals will work with you to curate the perfect soundtrack for your celebration, creating a lively and memorable atmosphere.

Photography and Videography

Capturing the precious moments of your wedding day is essential, and that's where professional photographers and videographers come in. They will work discreetly to capture the emotions, joy, and key moments of your celebration, providing you with lasting memories that you can cherish forever.

Additional Staff Considerations

When considering staff for your wedding package, it's important to think about the overall guest experience. This may include staff such as parking attendants, guest greeters, or ushers to guide guests to their seats. Additionally, consider the setup and teardown of the event, which may require staff for tasks like furniture arrangement, decoration setup, and cleanup.

In conclusion, the right staff can transform your wedding into an elegant, stress-free, and memorable occasion. By choosing experienced and dedicated professionals, you can ensure that your special day runs smoothly, allowing you and your guests to create lasting memories.

shunbridal

Furnishings

When it comes to wedding food packages, the term "package" refers to an all-inclusive offering that takes care of various aspects of the wedding, including catering. These packages are designed to simplify the wedding planning process by integrating services and creating a cohesive theme. While the specifics may vary, here is an overview of what "furnishings" might entail within the context of wedding food packages:

The "furnishings" included in a wedding food package typically refer to the tables, chairs, and other essential items needed for the wedding meal and reception. This can include:

  • Tables and chairs for guests to sit and eat comfortably. These may be standard tables and chairs or more decorative options, depending on the couple's preferences and the theme of the wedding.
  • Tableware, including plates, serving ware, glasses, and utensils. These items ensure that the meal is served and presented elegantly and efficiently.
  • Centrepieces and table lighting: Some packages may include decorative centrepieces such as candles, luminaries, or floral arrangements to enhance the ambiance and visual appeal of the tables.

The specific furnishings included in a wedding food package can vary, so it is always a good idea to discuss the details with your caterer or wedding planner. They will work with you to ensure that the furnishings align with your vision and create the desired atmosphere for your special day.

Formal Wedding Attire: What to Wear

You may want to see also

shunbridal

Ancillary services

Cake Cutting Assistance

This service ensures that the wedding cake is cut and served to guests in a timely and efficient manner. It can also include the provision of cake-cutting tools and utensils, as well as the display and presentation of the cake.

Champagne Fountain Assistance

A champagne fountain can add a touch of elegance and interactivity to the wedding celebration. This service includes setting up the fountain, ensuring a consistent flow of champagne, and assisting guests in partaking in the experience.

Corkage Fees

Corkage fees are charges associated with the service of alcoholic beverages. This ancillary service covers the cost of opening and serving wine or champagne brought by the couple or their guests. It ensures that the drinks are properly chilled, presented, and served by trained staff.

Furnishings and Decor

The wedding package provider may offer tables, chairs, plates, glassware, utensils, and other necessary items. Additionally, decorative items such as centrepieces, table lighting, and candles can be included to enhance the ambiance and visual appeal of the venue.

Photography and Videography

Capturing the special moments of the wedding day is essential. Photography and videography services can be included as ancillary services to ensure the couple receives high-quality visual mementos of their celebration. These services may include a set number of hours with a professional photographer and/or videographer, as well as options for additional editing or customisation.

Spa Treatments and Activities

Some wedding packages, especially those offered by resorts or hotels, may include spa treatments and activities for the couple and their guests. This could be in the form of discounted rates or complimentary services such as massages, facials, or other relaxing experiences to enhance the overall wedding experience.

shunbridal

Customisation

Wedding packages are a great way to simplify the wedding planning process. They typically include everything a couple needs for their wedding ceremony and reception, such as venue rental, catering, and decorations. The catering provided in these packages can be customised to suit the couple's preferences.

For instance, Wedgewood Weddings' "Build Your Own" package offers a high level of customisation. Couples can add their choice of delicious appetisers and curate their own menus, with the option to bring in outside vendors for certain services. This package also allows couples to choose from the venue's house chairs and linens or bring in their own styles from external suppliers.

Full-service wedding packages also offer customisation options, although these may come at an additional cost. Couples can work with their wedding planner to select specific cuisines, serving styles, and even schedule food tastings to narrow down their menu choices.

Some packages provide flexibility in choosing vendors. For example, Wedgewood Weddings allows couples to use their own vendors for services like DJ entertainment and photo booths, ensuring a personalised experience.

In addition to food and beverage options, wedding packages can also be customised with add-ons like lawn games, photobooths, signature cocktails, and extended celebration times. Couples can truly make their wedding day their own by tailoring these packages to match their vision.

Advantages of Customisation

By offering customisation options, wedding packages provide a flexible planning experience. Couples can choose the level of involvement they want in the planning process while still achieving their dream wedding.

Additionally, customisation can help couples stay within their budget. They can select the options that best fit their financial plan and decide where to allocate their funds, whether it's towards catering, decorations, or entertainment.

Planning Tips

When customising a wedding package, it's essential to communicate your preferences and expectations clearly. Discuss your vision with your partner and your wedding planner to ensure that your customisation choices align with your overall wedding theme and budget.

Start by identifying your priorities and focus areas for the event. This will help guide your customisation choices and ensure that you allocate your time and budget effectively.

Take advantage of the expertise offered by wedding planners and vendors. They can provide valuable insights, suggestions, and guidance based on their experience, helping you make informed decisions about customisation options.

Finally, don't be afraid to think outside the box and get creative. Your wedding package can be tailored to your unique vision, so feel free to incorporate personal touches that reflect your individuality as a couple.

Frequently asked questions

A wedding food package will typically include all food served at the wedding and reception, including pre-wedding meals, appetizers, and the main meal. Some packages also include hard and soft drinks, while others subcontract a bartender or provide this service directly.

Wedding food packages will usually include staff to set up, serve, tend the bar, refill, clear tables, and clean up. Some packages also include furnishings like tables and chairs, as well as plates, glassware, and utensils.

Wedding food packages are designed to make the planning process easier and more cohesive. They also ensure that all the components of the catering aspect complement each other.

Yes, most caterers will offer a variety of packages and allow you to add or remove items as needed. You can also discuss how the food will be served (tableside or buffet-style) with your caterer.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment