What should I ask a wedding venue about catering?

Short answer

Ask whether catering is in-house or external, whether you can taste dishes first, and how dietary needs are handled. Also ask about corkage, service timings, and what happens if guest numbers change close to the day.

Start by asking whether the venue has its own catering team or allows you to bring in outside caterers. If they have a preferred list, ask how many caterers are on it and whether you can meet them before deciding. You should also ask if you can arrange a tasting session, and whether that tasting is included or costs extra.

Ask how they manage allergies, intolerances and religious dietary requirements. A good venue will have a clear process for recording these and will confirm them with each guest if needed. Ask about menu flexibility: can you mix and match dishes, or is it a set menu? Can you have a buffet, a sit-down meal, or a grazing table?

Check the practical details too. Ask about corkage if you want to bring your own wine or fizz. Ask how long the meal service takes, and whether there is a gap between the ceremony and the meal. Ask what happens if a few guests cancel or extra guests appear on the day. Finally, ask whether the venue charges a service fee or gratuity on top of the catering bill, and get the full breakdown in writing before you book.