Choosing to hire a caterer for a special event, like a wedding, birthday party, or graduation takes the stress of making food, setting up, and cleaning up off your shoulders. Catering costs vary, depending on a number of factors, so know your budget before you get started, and use the checklist that follows to manage your spending.

4 Things to Factor Into a Catering Budget

1. Number of Guests

Head count is the most important factor to consider when planning a catered event. The more guests you invite, the higher your expense, no matter how pared down your menu is. Once your guest list is settled, then consider what type of food you need to provide and how much. Events where casual snacks and no alcohol are served are less expensive to host than occasions where fully plated dinners and an open bar are expected. 

2. Drinks and Alcohol

The cost of serving alcohol can quickly add up if you don’t take steps to control it. If you limit the selection of alcohol to beer and wine, you won’t have to spend a fortune on liquor and spirits. A fully stocked open bar will be expensive, so consider asking your guests to pay for their drinks themselves. Or skip the alcohol altogether and serve only soft drinks, mineral waters, and juices, which will lower your beverage cost considerably. 

3. Serving Style

Caterers are flexible and will accommodate your preference for plated service or a buffet. If you’d rather serve your guests yourself, hire a  caterer that will deliver prepared appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts, and you can do the rest. For obvious reasons, sit-down dinners are typically the most expense catering service style, although costs can always be somewhat mitigated by careful food selection. Buffets and family-style service are less expensive and less formal than serving plated meals. 

4. Kitchen Availability

The kitchen facilities at the event venue will also impact price. When caterers have to bring mobile kitchens, tents, and other equipment with them, your costs will, of course, go up. So speak with your caterer about what they’ll need, and take kitchen availability into consideration when choosing a venue.

Catering budgets are impacted by a variety of factors. Talk to your caterer about your budget and what options are available. Dale’s Market & Deli, in Elyria, OH, offers buffet-style catering and party and dessert trays. They have a well-stocked deli, full-service bakery, and fresh, high-quality meats. Call (440) 365-6551 for a catering quote, or visit their website to view menu options.