Onsite vs Outside Caterer

I'm always inclined to go with the option that makes me the least amount of work....but do a tasting first to make sure you like their food!

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I agree, I'm more inclined to do what's easiest in terms of work. Now, my decision was made for me since I had to exclusively use the caterer the venue works with. I'd recommend doing a tasting with the in house caterer just to figure out if that's the quality of food you'd want for your wedding and go from there. Just know that if your outside caterer doesn't provide the napkins, glassware, etc., you'll need to contact a rental company for these things so those costs add up.

That's what we were thinking, it's easier and less hassle to use onsite. I was wanting to save a little if we could and I was really wanting a better selection of food for the cocktail hour for our guest, but that just may be a place we have to cut. We will def do a tasting to make sure the food is what we are wanting before officially deciding.

Outside caterers may have hidden fees for delivery and set up, make sure those are included for your quotes. I'm inclined to choose an onsite caterer except if:
- their food is terrible at the tasting and they have awful reviews;
- they cannot accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies;
- they cannot make a traditional ethnic meal that you are looking for;
- the outside caterers are SIGNIFICANTLY less expensive

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Agreed, these would be my non-negotiables

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This is a great list. The other benefit to an onsite caterer is that they don't have to transport the food. Sometimes food that is brought in from offsite can get dry and just not taste as good because it has to be reheated.

I would go with an on-site caterer if their food is good

Be careful of offsite caterers fees-you will have to rent stoves and ovens, tables, tents, and mats. Either one check the cost per head chef, sous chef and servers. I would do onsite for the ease if their food was good. Always make sure any caterer can handle any food allergen and accommodate those meals.

Thank you! I will be sure to ask offsite caterers about additional cost not included in quotes. We are leaning towards the onsite just for convenience and knowing everything is right there!