Before you start actually choosing the type of food and caterers you want to serve at your wedding, there are a lot of things to think about and plan. Follow these tips to make sure you have all your ducks in a row before actually making about the food you’ll serve.

• Figure out a budget. Catering is going to take up a good bit of your budget; prepare for it to take up no less than 20%.
• Decide whether you want to buy your own plates, silverware, cups, or any other dinnerware, or whether you want the caterer to provide those things. If you want the caterer to provide them, you’ll have to choose one that does. Don’t forget to ask!
• Some caterers will also decorate tables around the food with pictures of you and your partner. You’ll want to ask if they do this as well.
• Make sure the caterer you want to use sets up the food in a way you like. Whether that be charcuterie-style, buffet-style, or a plated dinner.
• Some caterers require specific needs in the kitchen (ovens, microwaves, ice machines, etc.). You’ll want to ask what they need beforehand to be sure the venue you choose supplies it.
• Choose food choices that you and your partner like, and think about options that everyone can eat. However, the day is about you, so if you like the food, that’s really all that matters!
• Caterers should be chosen close to a year in advance. If you are looking for caterers closer to the wedding day than a year, the options you want may not be available.
• You’ll also want to let your caterer know the number of people who will be in attendance, so they can provide you with an estimate that’s close to what you’ll actually be paying. 
• Don’t forget to add the vendors that will still be there to your final guest count number for the caterers. Photographers, DJs, videographers, bartenders, and coordinators should be included in this number.