Wedding Reception Caterers: Knowing where to begin

If you've decided to employ reception caterers to help you with putting together a seamless wedding reception, it's often difficult to choose the right caterer for you, out of the sea of possibilities. A wedding reception caterer can help you with almost anything related to your wedding reception, so it's important to figure out what you want so you're not overwhelmed when you start looking for reception caterers.

What do I need help with?

Have you picked your reception site?

If you have the ideal reception site in mind - one that you've been dreaming about for years, or one that grabbed you as soon as you saw it, your needs for reception caterers will be different from someone who maybe isn't as familiar with reception locations.

What other elements of the reception need to come together?

Same thing goes for reception decorations, reception music, etc. If you're in the dark about what type of theme you want, or what colors you want to use, you may need to look at reception caterers that offer the whole package. If you have centerpieces in mind, or know that your venue is providing decorations, table coverings, etc., you may be able to get away with a more bare-bones package.

Whatever type of reception caterers you end up choosing, keep in mind that you don't want to pay twice! If the reception hall will provide linens for your tables, for example, make sure you're not paying some sort of fee to your reception caterers for them to do the same - unless, of course you do want different table cloths!

Once you've figured out the areas where your planning is a little thin and where your potential caterer can help, you'll better know what type of services or wedding packages you need.

Your caterer and beyond: helping you with your other wedding needs

If you fall into the category of needing a little more help from your wedding reception caterers, make sure they know that going in. You'll want to pick someone that has the resources to help you. Most caterers - even if they can't personally offer you a service - are well connected in the "wedding world," and would be happy to refer you to other people or agencies who can help. They'll also be able to offer you wedding catering tips to make sure you have the best reception possible!

Often, reception caterers will offer services a la carte, so if you only need a little help here and there, you're not paying for what you don't need. Wedding reception caterers often do things like:

• Help you pick or address reception invitations
• Help you decide on a reception facility, or give you good suggestions within differing price ranges
• Assist you in coming up with a reception agenda that will fill the needs of both you and your guests

Wedding reception caterers should make your life easier - so be sure to pick one you feel you can work well with!