Budget wisely.
Don’t forget that taxes and gratuities can be a large chunk of your food and beverage costs, so make sure you’re including these in your budget. You certainly wouldn’t want to be surprised later!
What’s for dinner?
Generally, the time of day indicates to guests if they will be eating a meal. If you’ve decided not to serve a full meal at your reception, invite people for tea, 3-5 p.m.; cocktails, 5-7 p.m.; or dessert, 9 p.m. to midnight. And just to be clear, include this information on your invitations: “Please join us for tea [or cocktails, or champagne and cake, or light refreshments] following the ceremony.”
Taste test tips.
It’s easier to cook a great meal for two people than hundreds, so don’t rely on your taste testing alone – check some references as well. Try at least two items for each course so you’ll have an alternative if your first choice doesn’t work out.
Delicious cocktails.
“Open bar” is the most expensive option, offering guests anything they want to drink – soda, beer, wine or mixed drinks; a “limited bar” narrows the free choices down to whatever you’ve decided, such as soda and beer, or soda, beer and wine, with the option to buy mixed drinks if desired. A “cash bar” forces your guests to pay for any drink – yikes. Try to avoid the all “cash bar” route – this is, after all, a party that you invited them to as guests. Many couples have an open bar for cocktails before dinner, and a limited bar for the dance reception. This is perfectly appropriate, and is more budget-friendly than an open bar all night. Discuss your options, the prices, and your budget with your caterer.
Bar time.
Stop serving alcohol one-half hour to an hour before the end of the reception, to limit guests from drinking too much before driving home. If you have big drinkers in your crowd, try to plan accordingly, by offering end-of-the-night transportation, or having your reception at a hotel where your guests can rent rooms. |
