Catering an event on a budget can actually be realistic, but you must give yourself lots of time to plan and pick apart all of the details. There are caterers all over Birmingham and we will share with you our favorite caterer at the end of this article.
You’ll want to take the time to research the caterers in your area until you find the most suitable one for your event. You could ask friends for referrals, and get at least a few caterers to choose from.
Find a caterer you feel is actually listening to you when you insist on controlling costs. But be realistic and know that you won’t get the best deal if you insist on a June or December event with a seven-course formal dinner.
Ask for menu suggestions and affordable options. Use your caterer’s experience and skills, they do this every day!
Many caterers specialize in certain types of events, so, look for a cater that specializes in your event. If yours is a big event, hiring in advance becomes all the more important. Holiday and Wedding seasons will surely drive the costs of your event up, so consider an alternative date for your event.
Make sure you discuss all the extra details which can translate into added costs, and added strain on your budget. Some of those include: delivery fees, staffing fees, circumstantial fees, taxes, gratuity, and so on. Get it all in writing and make sure your contract lists every aspect of your event. If it is not listed, before you sign the contract, make sure you go over any left out details.
When choosing a caterer, don’t fall for flashy advertising and promotional material. These are expensive to produce and will often create higher costs for the end user (you). This is not always the case, again, research.
Easy Ways to Save
Create a smaller guest list.
Wedding cakes are cheaper to arrange on your own.
Instead of hosting a full bar stocked with twenty different liquors, mixers, and condiments, serve only beer and wine. You could add a signature cocktail if you must, or offer just one or two versatile spirits such as whiskey or vodka.
Some caterers will let you bring your own liquor, charging a nominal corkage fee. If possible, choose an alcohol supplier who has a buyback policy. This is an agreement to purchase back any unopened bottles.
Another way to save money would be to cut down the number of courses. Maybe even consider offering a buffet instead of sit down meal. This requires fewer catering staff and may allow you to add other items to your menu.
Serve lunch, brunch, or even just a dessert reception instead of dinner. Skip the hors d’oeuvres altogether and pile self-serve cocktail tables high with beautiful cheeses, breads and fresh fruits.
Black tie vs. Casual
Consider a more casual themed event, fine china and fancy ware will drive your costs up. Your guests will enjoy great food served on a study plate more than inferior foods served on high dollar china.
Choose menu items carefully, and ask your caterer for suggestions. Decline expensive ingredients and avoid labor intensive dishes. With all of this in mind, you should be well on your way to lovely food, at affordable pricing.
Looking to find the best deal on Catering in Birmingham, then visit www.birmingham-catering.com to find the best advice on Birmingham Catering for you.
