Confused about the wedding breakfast

We had outside caterers for our wedding because the reception was in a marquee at my parents' house.

There were numerous options of what we could have and they all seemed to work out the same, per person. My friend is having the same caterers at her wedding this year, but going for a different option to us.

We had:
Canapes whilst we were having photos taken (this was instead of a starter). This came to about £6 per person and although DH and I hardly saw one, all our friends were complaining that they were full!!!

Buffet - sit down lunch
different meats, fish, veggie options and plenty of different salads, rolls etc
Pudding was a choice of two served at the table - we chose from a very very long list of possibilities.

The whole thing came to £25 per head (which included a couple of glasses of Pimms with the canapes).

However, if we'd had a suitable cake (eg chocolate cake) then the caterers would have portioned it up for everyone to have as pudding.

The friend who is getting married this summer is having a 3 course sit-down meal and we are choosing what we want before the day. From exactly the same caterers, she and her husband to be are both vegetarians so are designing their meal around that.

I think if you have your reception at a place where there are in-house caterers, you are expected to have one of their meal packages. However, any decent caterer will be fully aware of different dietary requirements and will be able to help YOU decide what you want on your perfect day. You will also be able to mix and match from different menus. Don't forget to ask your guests whether they have any dietary requirements eg nut allergies.

Ouch, Skintchick, that's a lot!

We get married in 9 :eek: days and we've requested canapes and welcome drinks during photos (as VickyA did). We're providing the drinks though, as it worked out slightly cheaper even with corkage. We also knew what we were getting that way.

We're having a sit down, hot buffet meal with our cake being served as pudding.

Also having a light evening buffet.

Food works out at £28 a head for 60 guests, including crockery, cutlery and service.

OP, consider a hot buffet, unless you actually want a formal meal. It's cheaper, as there's less service and guests get a choice of items. You can still get everyone to sit down at tables if you wish.

Most places will expect you to use their caterers if they have them. Any decent one should be able to help you come up with suitable menus, especially for special diets and allergies.