15 Ways to Save on Wedding Catering Without Sacrificing Style
Cheap wedding catering food doesn’t have to tase cheap!
Trying to cut wedding costs without disappointing your guests? Catering is often one of the biggest wedding expenses, but with a few smart choices you can serve great food on a budget. Whether you’re planning a big reception or an intimate celebration, these cost-saving wedding catering ideas will help you stay on track financially and still wow your guests.
1. Choose Buffet or Family-Style Catering
Buffet and family-style services cost less than plated meals because they require fewer staff and reduce prep time. Guests serve themselves, which cuts labor fees and minimizes food waste.
2. Stick to One Entrée
Offering multiple entrée choices can double your food budget. A single entrée with a vegetarian alternative keeps things simple and affordable.
3. Offer Heavy Appetizers Instead of a Full Dinner
Cocktail-style receptions with hearty appetizers, grazing tables, or food stations are trendy and often far cheaper than seated dinners.
4. Replace the Full Open Bar
To save on wedding bar costs, offer beer, wine, and one signature cocktail instead of unlimited liquor options. Cash bars also can
5. Host a Brunch or Lunch Wedding
Daytime weddings come with lower food costs. Brunch and lunch menus—like sliders, salads, or breakfast stations—are typically much cheaper than evening catering.
6. Give an Exact Headcount
Your per-person price adds up quickly. Avoid rounding up “just in case”—only pay for who’s actually coming.
7. Use Seasonal, Locally Sourced Ingredients
Caterers charge less when they don’t need to source out-of-season or imported items. Seasonal menus are fresher and more budget-friendly.
8. Choose Budget-Friendly Tableware
Skip pricey china rentals when you can use stylish disposables or mixed rentals to cut costs without sacrificing aesthetics.
9. Ditch Passed Hors d’Oeuvres
Having servers walk trays adds labor costs. Set up grazing tables or charcuterie displays instead.
10. Opt for a Budget-Friendly Wedding Dessert
Tiered wedding cakes can be expensive. Sheet cake, cupcakes, donuts, or dessert bars offer the same fun for less.
11. Bring Your Own Alcohol (If Allowed)
Buying alcohol in bulk from a warehouse store can save hundreds. Many venues allow returns on unopened bottles.
12. Trim Your Guest List
One of the fastest ways to cut catering costs is to invite fewer people. Every guest affects food, rentals, and staffing.
13. Book a Venue With In-House Catering
In-house wedding catering packages often include food, staffing, and rentals at a bundled rate—saving you from outside vendor markups.
14. Serve Family-Style Platters
Family-style meals reduce labor and create a warm, interactive atmosphere without the cost of individual plating.
15. Simplify or Skip Late-Night Snacks
Late-night bites add up fast. DIY stations like popcorn, nachos, or s’mores provide an affordable alternative.
Final Thought: Affordable Wedding Catering Is Totally Possible
You don’t need a huge budget to feed your guests well. By choosing cost-effective catering styles, limiting menu options, and being strategic with your guest count, you can save thousands while still hosting a memorable celebration.
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