Catering, Catering Hire & Bar Hire

Wedding catering can be one of the largest costs on your wedding budget, especially if you are having a very large reception. There are many different types of wedding caterers so you need to do your research to find which company is best for your. Some companies are based at a venue, 'In-house catering', where as others are mobile, 'outside catering'. It is important to discuss, with the different companies you are considering, what you want from your wedding catering and they may be able to help with wedding food ideas if you are struggling to make sense of the whole thing. Some companies can also provide mobile bars and give the option to hire wedding catering extras. Some wedding catering companies can provide an outdoor wedding catering service, which is perfect if you are having a marquee wedding and are looking for marquee wedding catering.

Whether it is a sit down 3 course meal with waitresses or a wedding buffet, talk to the wedding catering companies and find the one which not only offers the best price but also which you feel most comfortable with.

Wedding caterers generally come in two forms. 'In-house catering' which is when the venue provides the wedding catering service and you need to communicate with the venue when deciding on the wedding menu. The other type in 'outside catering', this will come at a greater cost but you have much more flexibility and can pick the food that you really want.

For Great Ideas on In-house vs. Outside catering

Vintage is the new best thing in terms of wedding styles and venue decoration, but there is no reason why your catering should not be vintage themed as well. Have you thought about a vintage dinner or tea party? How about using vintage crockery or vintage table cloths? It is best to talk to your catering supplier and to discuss you vintage vision.

More Great Ideas for a Vintage Themed Reception

Wedding catering in its most simple form: a barbecue or hog roast for an evening wedding reception is a relaxed and informal way for your guests to mix and get to know each other. Don't feel this is just an option for rustic barn venues, some of the UK's most prestigious wedding reception venues offer gourmet barbecues with handmade relishes and locally produced organic meats. There are also excellent fresh fish and vegetable options which means that everyone can enjoy food from the BBQ. Outdoor wedding catering is improving so fast that your wedding BBQ will look professional, fresh and delicious.

More Great Ideas on Wedding BBQ's

Some wedding catering companies bring with them facilities which they use such as chillers, but that will be included in the cost. Therefore some wedding caterers may appear to be much cheaper but don't be fooled. You will probably have to hire the equipment separately. The best plan is to discuss with the caterer what is included in the cost.

For More Great Ideas on hiring catering equipment

Alcohol will account for a large part of your budget, and there are savings to be had for brides organising their own caterers as most will be happy for you to supply your own wine supplies. Check corkage charges first - it is usual for caterers to charge a hefty, but fair, corkage charge to cover the cost of chillers, glassware and bar staff to serve your drinks. Also consider what you will do with all of the surplus alcohol - or what you will do if you run out!

More Great Ideas for Mobile Bars and Wine supplies