Wedding Food Calculator
Plan your perfect wedding menu while staying within your budget
Catering Tip: Food typically accounts for 40-50% of a wedding budget. Allocate accordingly.
Pro Tip: Schedule tastings with 2-3 caterers 9-12 months before your wedding date.
Wedding Food Essentials
Total: $2,500.00
Total: $800.00
Total: $500.00
Total: $600.00
Total: $1,500.00
Total: $0.00
Additional Food Items
Wedding Food Budget Summary
Main Course:
Appetizers:
Salad/Soup:
Desserts:
Beverages:
Service Charge:
Additional Items:
$0.00
$0.00
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$0.00
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$0.00
Total Food & Beverage Cost: $0.00
Cost per Guest: $0.00
Wedding Catering Tips:
- Schedule tastings with multiple caterers before deciding
- Consider seasonal ingredients for better pricing and freshness
- Ask about package deals that include service staff
Wedding Catering Guide
By Service Style
- Plated: Most formal, typically $30-$100+ per person
- Buffet: $25-$70 per person, offers variety
- Food Stations: $35-$90 per person, interactive
- Cocktail Reception: $20-$60 per person, heavy appetizers
- Family Style: $28-$75 per person, communal dining
By Meal Type
- Dinner: Most common, typically $30-$150 per person
- Brunch: $20-$50 per person, often more affordable
- Lunch: $25-$60 per person, mid-range pricing
- Dessert Reception: $10-$30 per person, light option
- Breakfast weddings can save 30-50% over dinner
Budget Ranges
- Economy: $15-$30 per person (buffet, limited bar)
- Standard: $31-$75 per person (plated, beer/wine)
- Premium: $76-$150+ per person (filet/lobster, full bar)
- Service charges typically add 18-22% to food costs
- Consider a Friday or Sunday wedding for 10-20% savings
"Couples who choose seasonal menus and local ingredients often save 15-25% on catering costs while getting fresher food."
Essential Wedding Food Considerations
Menu Selection
Offer at least one vegetarian option. Consider dietary restrictions (gluten-free, allergies). Chicken is typically the most affordable protein, with beef and seafood costing more. Seasonal ingredients are often better priced.
Budget Tip: Duet plates (two smaller protein portions) can satisfy guests while controlling costs.
Beverage Options
Open bars are most expensive. Limited bars (signature drinks) or beer/wine only can save significantly. Consider non-alcoholic options and coffee service. Consumption bars (pay per drink) work for smaller weddings.
Budget Tip: A signature cocktail can be more affordable than a full bar.
Service Staff
Typically 1 server per 20-30 guests for plated, 1 per 30-40 for buffet. Bartenders (1 per 50 guests), chefs, and coordinators may be needed. Staff costs are often 15-20% of food costs.
Budget Tip: Some venues include basic staff in rental fees.
Cake & Desserts
Traditional wedding cakes average $3-$12 per slice. Dessert tables or alternate desserts (cupcakes, pies) may be more affordable. Some caterers include dessert in per-person pricing.
Budget Tip: A small display cake with sheet cake in back can save money.
Hidden Costs
Service charges (18-22%), cake cutting fees ($1-$3 per person), corkage fees ($10-$25 per bottle), vendor meals ($25-$50 each), overtime charges, and rentals (china, linens) can add significantly to costs.
Budget Tip: Ask caterers for all potential additional fees upfront.
Timeline Tip: Book caterer 9-12 months out. Finalize menu 3 months before. Provide final guest count 1-2 weeks prior.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for wedding food?
The average is $40-$150 per person, representing 40-50% of total wedding budget. Plated dinners average $40-$150, buffets $25-$70, and cocktail receptions $20-$60 per person.
What's included in catering costs?
Typically includes food, non-alcoholic beverages, service staff, and basic rentals. Alcohol, cake, linens, china, and specialty items may be extra. Always clarify what's included.
How many appetizers per guest?
Cocktail hour: 6-8 pieces if no dinner, 4-6 before plated meal, 2-4 before buffet. Passed hors d'oeuvres: 3-5 varieties. Stations: 1-2 per guest per station.
Should we have a kids' meal option?
For children under 12, kids' meals (typically $15-$25) can save over adult meals. Some caterers offer half-portions at reduced prices. Consider if you'll have many children attending.
How can we save on wedding food costs?
Choose buffet over plated, limit bar options, select chicken over beef, have a brunch/lunch reception, reduce guest count, choose seasonal ingredients, or consider food trucks for casual weddings.