Wedding Catering Cost Per Head in the UK

The cost per head for wedding catering in the UK depends on several things. The type of meal, the number of courses, and the quality of ingredients all play a part. A formal plated dinner with several courses will cost more than a buffet or a family-style sharing meal. The time of year and the day of the week also matter, with Saturday evenings in summer often costing the most.

The venue itself can change the price. Some venues include catering in their package, while others let you bring in your own caterer. If you bring your own, you may pay a corkage fee for each bottle of drink served. Staffing, tableware, linen, and service charges are often added on top. Always ask for a full written quote that lists every extra, so you know exactly what the per-head price includes.

Start by working out your total wedding budget, then decide what share goes to food and drink. There is no fixed rule, but many couples find that venue and catering together take up a large part of the budget. Think about what matters most to you. If food is a priority, you might spend less on flowers or favours.

Once you have a total for catering, divide it by the number of guests to get your per-head figure. This number should include the meal, drinks, service, and any venue charges. Be realistic. If your per-head budget is tight, choose a simpler menu or a less expensive day of the week. Remember that children and non-drinking guests may cost less, so ask your caterer about reduced rates.

A traditional wedding breakfast in the UK often starts with a starter, then a main course, and ends with dessert. Common starters include soup, pâté, or a light salad. Mains might be roast chicken, beef, salmon, or a vegetarian option like risotto or stuffed peppers. Desserts are often something like chocolate tart, cheesecake, or a fruit crumble.

You do not have to stick to a three-course meal. Many couples choose a two-course meal to save money, or a one-course main with a buffet-style dessert table. Afternoon tea is a popular choice for a daytime wedding, with finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes. For an evening do, you might offer a hog roast, fish and chips, or a curry station. Talk to your caterer about what they can do within your budget.

For a lower budget, think about a buffet or a sharing-style meal. Dishes like pasta, curry, or a taco bar can be filling and cost less per head. You can also ask guests to choose from two or three mains instead of a full menu. For a mid-range budget, a plated two-course meal with a choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian is a good option. For a higher budget, you could have a three-course meal with premium ingredients like steak, lobster, or seasonal specialities.

Indian wedding breakfasts are a wonderful choice. You could serve a selection of curries, rice, naan bread, and side dishes, either as a buffet or at the table. Vegetarian menus can be creative and satisfying, with dishes like mushroom wellington, halloumi burgers, or a roasted vegetable tart. Always ask about dietary requirements, including vegan, gluten-free, and halal options, and make sure your caterer can accommodate them.

Drinks can be a large part of your catering cost. You will need to decide whether to have a toast drink, wine with the meal, and a bar for the evening. A simple option is to offer a welcome drink, wine on the table, and then a cash bar later. Or you could have an open bar, but that will increase your per-head cost.

Corkage is a fee that some venues charge if you bring your own drinks. The fee is per bottle, and it covers the venue's cost of serving and chilling. Always ask the venue what their corkage fee is and whether it applies to wine, beer, and soft drinks. Some venues do not charge corkage, but they may have a minimum spend on drinks. Check the details before you book, and get everything in writing.

There are many ways to keep catering costs down without sacrificing quality. Choose a venue that allows you to bring your own caterer, or one that has a list of approved caterers with different price points. Opt for a buffet or family-style meal instead of a plated dinner. Serve a smaller number of courses, or have a dessert table instead of a plated dessert.

Think about the time of day. A brunch or lunchtime wedding can be cheaper than an evening event. You could also have your wedding on a Friday or Sunday, which is often less expensive. Ask your caterer for seasonal menus, as local and in-season ingredients cost less. And remember, you do not have to provide a full bar. A limited selection of drinks, such as a signature cocktail, wine, and soft drinks, can be more affordable and just as enjoyable.