Food, glorious food!

Let’s be honest—no couple dreams of serving a rubbery chicken dinner on their big day. You want a menu that wows, something that’s as stylish as it is delicious. The perfect balance of creativity and crowd-pleasing flavors.

Sounds like a tall order? It can be! With catering likely taking up a big chunk of your wedding budget, making the right choice is key.

So, let’s dive into the delicious world of wedding catering—covering your options, and how to make the most of your tasting experience!

On-Premise vs. Off-Premise Catering: Which One is Right for Your Wedding?

Lemonade With A Salt Rim

When it comes to wedding catering, you’ve got two main options: on-premise or off-premise catering. But what’s the difference? Let’s break it down!

On-Premise Catering
This means your venue comes with its own built-in catering team. Whether it’s a hotel, country club, or a venue that partners exclusively with a specific caterer, on-premise catering keeps things simple and streamlined. No outside vendors to coordinate—just show up and enjoy!

Off-Premise Catering
If your dream venue doesn’t offer catering—or you’re saying “I do” at a private estate or backyard celebration—you’ll need an independent catering company. Amazing options like Only One Catering and Lemonade With A Salt Rim, and Mana Sabroso Catering bring the feast to you!

Many caterers, like Everybody Eats Catering by Magnolia and Heavenly Gourmet Catering, even have exclusive partnerships with certain venues while still offering off-premise services.

Understanding these options can help you decide what works best for your wedding style, logistics, and budget. No matter which route you choose, just make sure the food is as unforgettable as your big day.

Heavenly Gourmet Catering 

Should I Expect to Pay for a Tasting?

If you’re hoping for a tasting before signing a contract, the short answer is—yes, you’ll likely need to pay a small fee.

Quality caterers use fresh, high-end ingredients and experienced staff to create an exceptional dining experience. With rising food costs and labor shortages, most caterers simply can’t offer complimentary tastings to couples who haven’t made a commitment.

That said, don’t be afraid to book a caterer before tasting their food. Just like a florist doesn’t craft a full bridal bouquet for free, a caterer’s reputation, years in the business, and glowing reviews are great indicators of their quality.

If you do opt for a tasting upfront, expect to pay between $50–$150 per person—though many caterers will apply this fee toward your final balance. Just make sure to ask in advance if it’s not clearly stated in your agreement!

Mana Sabroso Catering

And Now… The Fun Part!

Once you’ve signed up with your caterer, it’s time to dig in—literally!

Your official tasting will typically take place 2–3 months before the big day to finalize your menu. But don’t worry, you’ll be in contact with your caterer well before then.

If you’re opting for a classic plated meal, you’ll likely have a variety of options to choose from. For your tasting, pick a couple of salads, entrées, and sides, and enjoy making the final call with your spouse.

Feeling adventurous? If you have a specific cuisine in mind or want a show-stopping presentation, talk to your caterer about a custom menu. Many caterers love getting creative! Just keep in mind that a unique dish may come with a price adjustment, depending on ingredient availability and prep time.

Only One Catering

Think Big Picture

You know the saying—we eat with our eyes first!

A professional caterer knows that food needs to look as good as it tastes. Presentation matters, from the way each dish is plated to the dinnerware it’s served on.

Everybody Eats Catering By Magnolia 

When discussing your menu, don’t forget to ask about china, glassware, and silverware options. Even a simple dish can look next-level when served on a sleek rectangular plate or a colorful ceramic bowl. Classic white dinnerware? Always a winner when paired with the right linens, chargers, or unique glassware.

Your caterer can help coordinate dining ware rentals, or your wedding planner or rental company can handle it. If you’re working with multiple vendors, get them in touch early! Many seasoned wedding pros have collaborated before, making the process smooth and stress-free.