Wedding Day Advice | Cakes and Catering

Since ancient times, the provision of a special meal for the wedding guests has been a central part of the wedding celebration. Today, as back then, feeding one’s guests is a major expense. If you’re watching your pennies, read on to find out how you can stretch your budget a little further…

Image Courtesy of Green Wedding Shoes | Photo courtesy of Bryan Miller

Money-saving Tip 1:
Watch the numbers – when it comes to the size of the guest list, less may be more. Trim the guest list down to a small band of special people and treat them, rather than skimping on catering for a large group.

Money-saving Tip 2:
Instead of hosting a four-course sit-down evening dinner, consider other more cost-effective formats – a wedding breakfast or brunch, an afternoon High Tea or an evening cocktail party.

Money-saving Tip 3:
Keep the menu simple – stick to soups, casseroles, lasagnas, curries, vegetables and salads and avoid pricey items like seafood and beef fillet. Limit the menu to two or three options per course. Serve wedding cake as a dessert, perhaps with some fruit.

Money-saving Tip 4:
DIY catering – if you, or a family member, has a talent for cooking, consider doing the catering yourself and providing a buffet meal. Or consider a spit-braai. Remember, though, DIY catering is hard work and the pressure is on!

Money-saving Tip 5:
When it comes to hiring a catering company, go with the little guys – many family-run caterers, smaller restaurants or even grocery stores provide excellent service at a fraction of the cost of the larger caterers. Investigate whether the caterer gives discounts in the ‘off-peak’ season, and plan to hold your wedding then, rather than in the height of wedding season.

Money-saving Tip 6:
Alcohol is a big expense – set a reasonable limit and then insist guests make use of a cash bar.

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Article contributed by SouthAfricanFoodies.co.za
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