Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life. And let’s be honest—the food is what everyone will talk about! Choosing the right caterer for your wedding on the island of Ireland is crucial. This guide will help you pick the perfect caterer, so your guests leave raving about the food and your special day is a delicious success.
1. Know Your Budget
Before you start searching, set your catering budget. This will help narrow down your options and avoid disappointment later.
Food costs can vary widely depending on the type of meal you choose. Buffets are often more affordable than plated dinners, but each has its charm. Work out what you’re willing to spend and stick to it.
Pro tip: Remember to include extras like service fees, corkage charges, and VAT when calculating costs.
2. Define Your Style
Do you want a formal sit-down meal or a casual buffet? Maybe you’re dreaming of food trucks or a seafood station.
The catering style should match your wedding theme and venue. For example, an elegant plated dinner works well in classic wedding venues, while a food truck setup can bring fun vibes to outdoor weddings.
If you’re considering a beach wedding in Ireland, check out our guide: Can You Have a Beach Wedding in Ireland? Your Ultimate Guide.
3. Consider the Venue
Some venues have in-house caterers or a preferred list of vendors. Ask your venue what’s allowed before booking an outside caterer.
If you’re still deciding on a venue, our guide to 10 Stunning Wedding Venues in Ireland Perfect for Elopements can help you find the perfect spot.
Pro tip: Confirm the venue has a kitchen or facilities for caterers to prepare and serve food.
4. Ask for Recommendations
Your wedding planner, photographer, or recently married friends are great resources. They’ll have insights into reliable caterers they’ve worked with before.
Online directories and reviews can also help. Sites like Weddings Online or The Knot have a wealth of caterer reviews specific to Ireland.
5. Schedule Tastings
Never book a caterer without tasting their food. A tasting session gives you a chance to experience their flavours, presentation, and portion sizes.
When you go to the tasting:
- Bring questions about menu customisation.
- Ask about ingredients, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
- Check their flexibility for seasonal and local produce.
6. Think About Your Guests
You’ll likely have a mix of dietary needs among your guests. Make sure your caterer can accommodate these. Common options include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free dishes.
A caterer experienced in weddings will help you create a menu that satisfies everyone without compromising on taste or style.
7. Check Their Experience
Wedding catering is different from running a restaurant. Make sure your caterer has experience in managing wedding-sized crowds. Ask for references or look for reviews from past couples.
They should also have staff who can handle food service seamlessly, whether it’s a buffet or table service.
8. Understand the Fine Print
Get everything in writing. Your contract should include:
- Menu details
- Costs and payment terms
- Cancellation policies
- Staffing arrangements
Ensure there’s clarity on what’s included, such as linens, glassware, and cutlery. If it’s not in the contract, don’t assume it’s provided.
9. Plan Your Timeline
Timing is everything on your wedding day. Discuss the event timeline with your caterer to ensure food is served promptly.
Pro tip: Work with your wedding planner to keep things running smoothly. For more tips, read our Ultimate Wedding Checklist.
10. Consider Presentation
Food should taste amazing, but it should also look incredible. Check out photos of the caterer’s past work to ensure their presentation aligns with your vision.
Beautifully presented food complements your wedding’s aesthetic, especially when captured by your wedding photographer.
11. Sample Local Flavours
The island of Ireland is known for its fresh, local ingredients. Incorporate Irish favourites like smoked salmon, soda bread, or a decadent whiskey-infused dessert into your menu.
A great caterer will know how to highlight local produce in a way that fits your theme.
12. Don’t Forget Drinks
Does your caterer provide bar services? If not, you may need to arrange a separate vendor.
Make sure your drink selection includes:
- A signature cocktail
- Non-alcoholic options
- Wines and beers that pair well with your menu
13. Ask About Set-Up and Clean-Up
Find out if your caterer handles set-up and clean-up. This includes everything from laying tables to clearing plates and disposing of rubbish.
You’ll want a team that makes your day as stress-free as possible.
14. Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, go with a caterer who makes you feel confident and excited. If something feels off, trust your gut and keep looking.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right caterer is one of the most important decisions for your wedding. With these tips, you’ll find a caterer who delivers delicious food and ensures a seamless experience.
For more wedding inspiration, check out our post on How to Write Your Wedding Vows.
Stay Connected
Planning a wedding on the island of Ireland? Dive deeper into our tips and guides to make your dream day a reality. Follow us on Instagram for daily inspiration, real weddings, and vendor shoutouts. Don’t forget to bookmark our blog for your next planning step!
