Planning a wedding in New York City is an adventure in itself. There’s the venue, the decor, the flowers, and the food. With so many incredible options available, finding the perfect catering wedding package can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry! Whether envisioning an elegant dinner or a more relaxed affair, this guide will help you choose the best catering wedding packages for your special day.
Why Catering Matters for Your Big Day
Food is more than sustenance—it’s a massive part of the wedding experience. When guests talk about your wedding, chances are they’ll mention how stunning you looked, how much fun they had on the dance floor, and how delicious the food was. A good New York City caterer can help create memories long after the party ends.
The right catering package can turn a beautiful wedding into a memorable experience. Packages offer different options for everything from appetizers to desserts, making planning a meal just right for your vision easy. The key is knowing which package is right for you, your guests, and your budget.
Understanding Your Needs Before Choosing a PackageHow Many Guests Are You Inviting?
The first question you must ask yourself is: how many people are coming? This isn’t just a question about logistics—it’s about the experience you want to provide your guests. Large weddings can be unique, but they often call for catering that focuses on speed and efficiency. Smaller weddings can afford to be a bit more indulgent.
New York City caterers like Bon Soir Caterers can help customize a catering wedding package that suits your specific guest list size—a grand 300-person celebration or a cozy 50-person gathering.
What’s Your Budget?
Budget is an essential part of catering planning. Your budget will determine whether you go with a basic or premium package and what specific foods are included. While it may be tempting to choose the least expensive option, quality food often comes with a higher price tag. Your guests will thank you for the upgrade!
One couple I know planned a fantastic NYC rooftop wedding. They knew they wanted to allocate a significant part of their budget to the food because their diverse guest list included people with a variety of tastes and dietary needs. They opted for a premium catering wedding package that featured creative stations and interactive elements—and it was one of the most memorable parts of their day.
Types of Catering Styles to ConsiderPlated Dinners
Plated dinners are the most traditional option, and they’re great for couples who want a formal vibe for their wedding. This style allows each guest to receive their meal served directly to them, typically with a choice between a few different entrees. Plated dinners can make the evening feel elegant, but they may also be more expensive because of the additional staffing needed.
Buffet or Family-Style Service
Buffet or family-style catering wedding packages are ideal for couples looking for a more casual experience. Buffets allow guests to serve themselves, giving everyone a range of options. Family-style service is similar but with large platters placed on each table for guests to pass around—fostering a cozy, communal atmosphere.
One of my favorite weddings to attend was a casual affair in an NYC loft. The couple chose a family-style meal that made everyone feel at home. People laughed and shared stories as they passed dishes around, giving the evening a warm, relaxed feel that stood out.
Food Stations or Cocktail-Style
Food stations and cocktail-style receptions are becoming popular for couples who want their wedding to feel like an upscale party rather than a sit-down dinner. This setup involves multiple stations with different types of food—think a sushi bar, a taco station, and a pasta bar—allowing guests to try various flavors throughout the evening. It’s perfect for couples who want to keep things dynamic and ensure something for everyone.
Bon Soir Caterers is one New York City caterer specializing in offering creative food stations. Their packages can include fun and interactive stations, keeping guests mingling and creating excitement in the evening.
Menu Customization OptionsDietary Restrictions
It’s essential to consider dietary restrictions when choosing your catering wedding package. New York City is a melting pot of cultures and dietary preferences—your guest list might include vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free, or other dietary restrictions. The best catering companies will work with you to create a menu everyone can enjoy without compromise.
A good tip is to provide options that suit different diets without making it feel like an afterthought. Imagine being at a wedding as a vegan and getting just a side salad while everyone else enjoys a multi-course meal. You want everyone at your wedding to feel considered and catered to, regardless of their dietary needs.
Signature Dishes and Personal Touches
Another way to personalize your wedding menu is by including signature dishes. Some couples like to add a family recipe or dish with special meaning. I attended a wedding where the couple had a station featuring food from their first date—it was both meaningful and delicious and gave everyone an insight into their love story.
Talk to your caterer about including a significant dish for you both. Bon Soir Caterers offers a variety of customizable options so that couples can add those special touches that make the day uniquely theirs.
Tasting Sessions—Don’t Skip This Step!
A tasting session is one of the most fun parts of choosing your catering, but it’s also one of the most crucial. Tasting sessions allow you to experience the flavors and presentation before making final decisions, ensuring that what you imagine matches what’s being served.
Most New York City caterers offer a tasting once you’ve narrowed your options. Don’t be afraid to provide honest feedback during these tastings—your caterer wants you to be happy! If something doesn’t match your vision, let them know, and they will work with you to adjust it.
Choosing a Caterer You TrustLook for Experience and Reviews
New York City has countless caterers, but not all are created equal. Experience is crucial when it comes to executing a seamless event. Look for a caterer who has handled weddings similar to yours in style and size.
Checking reviews online can also give you a sense of a caterer’s reliability. Previous couples are usually very candid about their experiences, and you can learn a lot from their feedback. If you read that a particular caterer always runs out of appetizers, you’ll know to steer clear.
Meet in Person
Meeting a caterer in person is invaluable when choosing one. Consider how they respond to your ideas and questions during your initial consultation. Are they excited about your vision? Do they have suggestions that make sense for your specific needs? The right caterer should feel like a partner, not just a vendor.
The personal touch is what makes a wedding truly memorable. Bon Soir Caterers, for instance, takes the time to understand each couple’s story and vision. That way, they can ensure that their catering wedding packages fit the couple’s unique style and preferences.
Making It All Come TogetherTiming and Logistics
When planning your catering, consider the timeline of your wedding day. When will the ceremony end, and how soon after will the reception begin? Consider offering past hors d’oeuvres or a cocktail hour before dinner if there’s a gap.
Discuss these logistics with your caterer to ensure everything runs smoothly. Nothing derails a wedding faster than hungry guests waiting too long for food! Timing is crucial—your caterer should have experience coordinating with the other vendors (like your venue and DJ) to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Create Unforgettable Moments with Bon Soir Caterers
When choosing the perfect catering packages for your New York City wedding, experience and dedication make all the difference. Bon Soir Caterers is committed to making your big day as delicious and seamless as possible. With years of experience serving the New York City area, they offer various customizable options to suit every couple’s unique vision.
Whether planning an intimate affair or a grand celebration, Bon Soir Caterers has the expertise and passion to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Contact them today to start planning the perfect menu for your wedding.
Company Name: Bon Soir Caterers
Address: 1421 E 63rd St.
City: Brooklyn
State: NY
Zip Code: 11234
Phone: 718-763-9420
