Choosing your wedding caterer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your big day. From food quality to service style, the right caterer will enhance your celebration and help create unforgettable memories for your guests.
But with so many options out there, narrowing it down can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential tips to help you find the perfect fit for your wedding catering needs.
Do Shop Around
Don’t feel pressured to book the first caterer you meet. Shopping around allows you to compare quality, price, and style so you can make an informed decision. Every wedding caterer offers something different—some specialise in rustic banquets, others in formal dining or street food flair. Take the time to explore your options before signing on the dotted line.
Compare a range of catering companies with different service styles and menu options.
Ask for brochures, example menus, and price guides to get a feel for what’s on offer.
Attend wedding fairs or tasting events to meet caterers in person.
Shortlist your favourites and schedule follow-up meetings to dig deeper.
Don’t Compare Apples with Pears
It’s easy to assume all quotes include the same elements, but they rarely do. Some caterers bundle in tableware, staff, and drinks, while others charge separately for each. Comparing without understanding the details can lead to misleading conclusions. Make sure you’re looking at like-for-like quotes.
Break down each quote to identify what’s included—food, staff, equipment, VAT, etc.
Ask if delivery, setup, and cleanup are part of the package or cost extra.
Clarify how they price drinks, corkage, and bar service if it applies.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a line-item quote to avoid misunderstandings later.
Do Go See
Photos and menus tell part of the story, but seeing the caterer in action makes all the difference. Many will invite you to a tasting or let you attend a public event they’re catering. This is your chance to experience food quality, service style, and presentation first-hand. You’ll also get a sense of whether they match your vibe.
Ask to attend a tasting session and try a range of dishes.
Observe presentation, flavour, and portion sizes—do they align with your vision?
Watch how the staff interact with guests during live events.
Use the opportunity to ask questions and share feedback directly.
Don’t Assume
It’s easy to assume things will be taken care of, especially when you’re juggling so many other wedding plans. But assumptions can lead to disappointment and unexpected costs. Unless it’s stated in the contract or confirmed in writing, never presume something is included. Always check, clarify, and confirm.
Confirm who will provide items like table linens, crockery, cutlery, and glassware.
Ask if the caterer supplies serving staff or if you need to arrange this separately.
Clarify the timeline—when they’ll arrive, serve, and clear up.
Make sure all extras are listed in your agreement to avoid hidden charges.
Do Ask Around
Word of mouth is one of the most reliable ways to find a great wedding caterer. Talk to recently married friends, colleagues, or wedding professionals for honest insights. Personal recommendations can often lead you to caterers who don’t rely heavily on advertising but deliver excellent results. Plus, you’ll learn what to watch out for.
Ask friends or family who’ve hosted weddings or large events recently.
Check if your venue has a recommended supplier list or trusted contacts.
Speak to your wedding planner or photographer—they often work with caterers regularly.
Join local wedding groups on social media to see who others are recommending.
Don’t Buy Before You Try
Even if a caterer looks great on paper, you shouldn’t commit until you’ve tasted their food. A tasting session gives you the chance to test quality, flavour, and presentation. It’s also the perfect time to ask about customisation options and ingredient sourcing. Never skip this step—it’s too important.
Schedule a tasting before signing any contracts or paying a deposit.
Try a mix of canapés, mains, and desserts to assess consistency.
Give honest feedback and see how they respond to your preferences.
Use the session to discuss dietary needs, allergies, and special requests.
Do Read All About It
Online reviews can offer valuable insight into a caterer’s reliability and professionalism. While one bad review isn’t a dealbreaker, consistent complaints should raise a red flag. Look for patterns—both positive and negative—and how the caterer responds to feedback. A strong track record is a good sign.
Read reviews on platforms like Google, Hitched, or Facebook.
Look for testimonials that mention punctuality, flexibility, and guest satisfaction.
Pay attention to whether the food is praised for both taste and presentation.
Take note of how the business replies to criticism—professionalism matters.
Don’t Be Left Waiting
Caterers can get booked up months, sometimes years, in advance—especially in peak wedding season. If you’ve found one you like, don’t wait too long to confirm. Delaying might mean you lose your slot. Locking them in early will give you peace of mind and allow plenty of time to finalise details.
Ask early on about their availability for your wedding date.
Enquire how far in advance they typically need bookings.
Secure your preferred date with a deposit as soon as you’re sure.
Avoid last-minute stress by planning catering alongside venue booking.
Do Be Stylish
Great food should look as good as it tastes. Whether you're going formal or relaxed, the caterer should reflect your style and theme. Presentation plays a huge part in the dining experience, from the plating of mains to the layout of grazing stations. A creative caterer can really enhance your aesthetic.
Choose a caterer whose presentation style complements your wedding vision.
Ask for images of past events to assess styling skills and attention to detail.
Find out if they offer themed setups or bespoke menu design.
Ensure the visuals are as polished as the flavours—they go hand in hand.
Don’t Settle
You deserve a caterer who meets your expectations—and excites you about your day. If something feels off during the selection process, trust your instincts. The right fit will listen to your needs, provide clear answers, and work with enthusiasm. Don’t settle for average when your wedding deserves the best.
If you feel uneasy, take time to reflect or explore other options.
Look for enthusiasm and responsiveness during conversations.
Expect professionalism in everything from email replies to proposals.
Your confidence in them should grow—not waver—as the planning progresses.
Do Go With Your Gut
Beyond pricing and logistics, sometimes it simply comes down to a feeling. A caterer might tick all the boxes, but if you don’t click with them, it could affect the experience. Trust your instincts—if they feel right and make you feel supported, that connection can make all the difference on the day.
Consider how well they listen and respond to your ideas.
Evaluate how comfortable you feel communicating with them.
Ask yourself if you trust them to handle things without stress.
Go with the team that makes you feel excited and confident about your choice.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect wedding caterer isn’t just about the food—it’s about trust, style, service, and experience. The right choice will ensure your day runs smoothly, your guests are delighted, and your vision is brought to life.
Take the time to shop around, ask the right questions, and trust your gut. When all the pieces come together, your wedding meal will be more than just a dinner—it will be one of the most memorable parts of your celebration.
