How to Choose the Right Wedding Caterer: Expert Tips From a Luxury Wedding Planner
- melanierevell8
- Nov 21
- 2 min read
Finding your wedding caterer is a big moment in your planning journey. Food and service set the tone for the entire day - how your guests feel, how the celebration flows and how memorable the experience is. As a wedding planner, here’s what I always advise couples to look for.
Start With Solid Recommendations
The quickest way to your ideal caterer? Trusted referrals.
Ask your:
Wedding planner (we know who consistently delivers)
Venue (they know who works well in the space)
Friends (but keep in mind your expectations may be different)
A strong recommendation saves you time and steers you toward teams who deliver high-quality food and brilliant service.
Make the Tasting Count
The tasting is more than choosing dishes, it’s your chance to see how a caterer thinks, listens, and collaborates.
Look for:
Flavours you love
Beautiful presentation
Flexibility with ideas
A team who makes you feel heard
You should leave feeling excited, not overwhelmed.
Choose a Caterer Who Matches Your Vibe
Your caterer needs to “get” your style. Whether you’re planning refined silver-service elegance or joyful sharing feasts in relaxed family style, the food and service should feel aligned.
Ask yourself:
Does their menu fit our vision? Can they create something bespoke to you?
Do they understand the atmosphere we want to create?
Do they have experience with weddings like ours?
Do they have wine and water waiters for that elevated experience?
The right caterer blends seamlessly into your day and elevates the whole experience.
Ask About Their Experience
Luxury weddings require precision and calm under pressure. This comes from experience, not guesswork.
Ask:
How many weddings they do each year?
What guest numbers they’re used to?
What types of venues they’ve worked in?
A team who has handled weddings like yours will bring confidence and smooth logistics.
Know Who’s Actually There on the Day
You want to know who will be running service, because that person makes all the difference.
Find out:
Who your event manager is?
How big the service team will be?
How experienced their staff are?
For high-end weddings, polished, warm, professional service is essential. It's not just about carrying plates - it’s about reading the room and making guests feel cared for.
Check How They Handle Allergies and Requests
A great caterer never treats dietary requirements like an inconvenience. They should have thoughtful, well-designed alternatives ready, without compromising on quality.
Understand the Logistics
Especially in marquee weddings or dry-hire venues, catering logistics behind the scenes matter just as much as the menu.
Your caterer should confidently handle:
Kitchen setups
Power and equipment
Timings
Service flow
A well-organised team makes everything feel effortless for you and your guests.
Final Thoughts
Your perfect caterer will offer:
Delicious, beautifully presented food
A calm, confident team
Impeccable service
A genuine understanding of your wedding vision
When you find all of that, you’ve found the caterer who will help create an unforgettable guest experience. If you're looking for the help of a Wedding Planner to find your perfect Dream Team, we would love to guide you. Get in touch here to arrange a relaxed discovery call.
