Wedding reception is one of the most important parts of the day and how you work with your wedding catering service is critical as to how the whole thing comes off. However, if you’re smart in your dealings you can get a fabulous reception and maybe even save some money for the honeymoon.

One thing you need to realize is that the catering company probably wants to supply everything so if you’re thinking about saving money by bringing in your own champagne or cake this might not go over so good. The reason for this is that if everything is not just right it reflects poorly on the catering company and that’s not good for business. You’ll probably find that many catering companies have developed a network of complementary business associates who can provide you with all the things you need to make your reception a success. You may find that they are a one-stop shop for things like bands, floral designers and cake decorators.

Hosting a big event can be overwhelming and a challenging task for even the most organized person. If you are catering it yourself, you have the added stress of figuring out what food to buy and in what quantities as well as coordinating the cooking and preparation of the food.

If you have specific catering requirements like needing Halal or Kosher meals then the venue may not be able to accommodate your wedding or they may allow you to book outside caterers.

Choosing a caterer

If your reception is going to be in a facility that does not provide food, you will need to hire Wedding caterer. Your wedding caterer will be responsible for preparing, cooking, decorating and serving the food for your wedding.
Your Wedding caterer can also be responsible for beverages and for cleaning up after the event. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand all the services your wedding caterer will provide. Draw up a shortlist of potential caterers and arrange an appointment to discuss your specific requirements and compare prices and services. Ask to see specific example menus, price list and testimonials from other brides and grooms and inquire about the type of wedding packages they offer. Ask each caterer the same questions about their service, ingredients and any added extras so you get comparable quotes from each.

Now that you have decided on the type of reception venue you want then it is time to choose between using the in-house catering on offer, hiring an outside catering firm or catering yourselves.

Many venues have in-house caterers that provide all the food and drink services for celebrations held there. These caterers will be familiar with the styles of meal that their chefs specialize in and will also be able to provide tables and chairs, linen, crockery, glasses, waiting staff and some decorations.

If there is no in-house catering then ask for recommendations from the venue or friends or relatives. Also check the Yellow Pages and local newspapers for contacts.

Now that the wedding date is decided the next big thing is arranging for a sumptuous meal for all and sundry. Planning and preparing for the catering part can give you nightmares. Keep your calm! There is a way out. Book a good caterer who can serve good and delicious food within your budget.

The caterer must be well versed in culinary skill so that the food is enjoyed by all. Book an experienced caterer otherwise amateur cooks and caterers can spoil your great event.

The menu is to be decided well in advance so that arrangements can be made well in time and you don’t have to rush from pillar to post at the eleventh hour. A few things should be kept in mind to make your feast a memorable affair for the guests. Always make a rough estimate of the number of guests which are being invited. Make arrangements for the lunch/dinner of 25% extra so that you don’t have to face problems later on.

The place where the food is to be served should be nice and spacious so as there is ample space for the guests to move about freely. It needs to be well lit.

Arrange for some light snacks before the meal so that the guests don’t feel starved and crave for the food to be served early. Make arrangements for some appetizer too.

You can have a buffet system but always lay some tables and chairs for children and elderly so that they can comfortably relish their meal

The food needs to be cooked properly and hygienically Presentation of the food is as important as the taste. It should be displayed in an inviting manner. The tables should be laid out lavishly. Cover them with soothing table covers. You can use your own creativity to make the food appetizing Garnish the food beautifully so that it looks as good as it tastes.

Paper napkins needs to be placed in a stylish holders for the guests to use. The crockery needs to harmonize with your decoration. The cutlery must be displayed artistically. Beautifully carved out salad dressings can make your party even more appealing. Stick placards mentioning the dish which is being served. This will give a fair idea of the eatables which can be relished.

The arrangement for different cuisines should be done separately. You can add as many different dishes as your budget allows. Make arrangements for some sweet dish because people are in a habit of eating it after meals. Chilled ice creams are loved by everybody.

Always keep non vegetarian food away from vegetarian food because some people can’t stand the smell and sight of non vegetarian food. Make sure that the food is served hot and steaming which can tickle the taste buds of the guests.

Arrangements for hot water and finger bowl should be made especially if you are serving non vegetarian recipes. Make proper arrangements for disposal of plates glasses wrappers etc. at various places so that the place can be kept neat and tidy

Drinking water should be near at hand for the guests to quench their thirst. Make separate arrangements for the bar if you are serving the spirits. The bar must have bartenders to serve the guests. Too much alcohol consumption should be avoided in marriage parties as it can play spoil sport on your auspicious day.

So go head on and host a nice refreshing party for your kith and kin!