Catering under $3,000

Unfortunately, I think this is going to be difficult because that's only $50 per person especially if that price is supposed to include alcohol. We paid $75 per person for food, cake, and open bar and that was nearly six years ago. I found having a buffet rather than a plated meal was cheaper so that might be an option for you. If this price includes alcohol I would just offer beer and wine as that will also help cut costs.

Sorry I don't know the area well. But you might be able to host a lovely Sunday brunch wedding for closer to your budget rather than a Saturday evening or having it off season , unfortunately may is prime wedding season and the prices in most areas tend to jump up quite a bit.. Best of luck to you.

Have you looked into local restaurants that do catering or even food trucks? Sometimes they’re way more budget-friendly and still super tasty.

View Quoted Comment Thank you I’ll look into any restaurants that could cater. Our venue is full service only and it’s too small for a food truck! I’ll keep looking though!

View Quoted Comment That wouldn’t be so bad if cake and drinks are included! Not trying to spend more than the venue for just food!

View Quoted Comment Food and venue tend to be the most expensive part of a wedding so if you are looking to spend less than whatever you spent on the venue and under $3,000 I think you are going to have a difficult time.

Perhaps a buffet

I am also considering buffet because of the cost.

View Quoted Comment I’ve reached out to a few caterers for buffet and another costly thing is serving water instead of having water stationed at the bar! Who knew!!

View Quoted Comment I would recommend water carafes at the table with servers refilling during dinner rather than making guests get up for their own water for cheaper. If you are serving alcohol, you want your guests to be safe by providing water options to help them sober up. Plus, a May wedding will be warmer weather and guests will be thirsty.


The other posters made good alternative recommendations regarding throwing a brunch wedding or even cake and punch at a non- meal time. Otherwise I'd review the budget based on review of real, local resources and not just financial limits. Food and beverage are the most costly vendors because they are the most impactful. Many couples set a date based on their budget and what they can afford by this deadline. You may have to revise your date if your vision cannot be achieved with your budget and there's nothing wrong with that. Or go with a different venue that allows drop off catering like tacos, BBQ, or breakfast dishes. Good luck.

I would recommend doing a buffet. That way you can pay per food per tray. Also local restaurants will be cheaper for sure. You could find a low key good restaurant that doesnt charge you alot just because it is for a wedding. But please make sure its a good enough restaurant that doesnt cut corners, in terms of health and safety.

Thank you all for the help! Found a cater that can do under $3,000 or close to it!!