When we were looking around at caterers, one of the most surprising things we learned was that your food choices would be more expensive if you gave people the option of what they wanted to eat. That’s right, if you have more than one option, it will end up being more expensive than if you just gave them dual entrees.

At our wedding, we had a dual entree of steak and fish which ended up costing the same having a single entree of steak. The portions were smaller (4 oz. steak and 4 oz. fish rather than a 6 oz. steak) but the cost was the same because it’s so much more expensive for a caterer to factor in choice.

This makes sense though. The food cost is only a small portion of the per place price. The linens, tables, chairs, clothes, and labor make up the bulk of the cost whereas the food is just one static portion. Another reason is because they have to make extra portions for on-the-spot changes. If you have an option, someone who sees their choice as unappetizing will just report a different selection. Those extras have to be factored in and thus drive up the cost.

If you want to save some money on the entree and still give a choice (people can simply indicate they want a double portion of steak if they are allergic to fish), go with a dual entree rather than a choice.We

The catering bill will be the single largest bill of the entire event.

If you want to save money on your wedding, the caterer is where you will want to go and the best way to do that is to get at least three quotes. Dealing with contractors is the same whether you’re talking the catering for a wedding, installing windows, or getting anything done on your house. You won’t know how much you should be paying unless you get at least three quotes. Personally, especially with caterers, you’ll want to get at least five quotes (seven to be sure). While it seems like a lot of work, you’re spending thousands and thousands of dollars on this affair so you should be doing a little more work than usual! (also, you get to sample lots of food)

By getting multiple quotes, you get a general idea of how much things should cost in your area. You’ll know relative things right off that bat (chicken is cheaper than steak, which is cheaper than seafood) but to get your gauge straight you’ll want to get those quotes.