This is a question that we get asked a lot. And it’s not an easy one to answer because catering costs can vary widely depending on a number of factors.
Some of the things that will affect how much your catering costs are:
The type of event you’re having.
This is probably the biggest factor that will affect your catering costs. A casual backyard barbecue will obviously cost less than a formal sit-down dinner. A wedding, for instance, will generally require more extensive catering than a corporate event or private party. So think about the type of event you’re having and what kind of catering would be appropriate.
The guest count.
This is another big one. The number of guests plays a role in how much catering will cost. The more guests you have, the more food you’ll need – and that means higher catering bills.
The time of day.
Catering costs can also vary depending on the time of day. A morning breakfast event will typically be less expensive than an evening cocktail party.
The location.
The venue where your event is being held can also affect catering costs. If you have your event at a hotel or banquet hall, they may have their own in-house catering that will be less expensive than an outside caterer. Also, if you are looking for Catering in Los Angeles you can expect it to be more expensive than catering in a smaller city.
The menu.
Last but not least, the menu you choose will also affect your catering costs. A simple buffet with sandwiches and finger foods will obviously cost less than an elaborate five-course meal.
So, how much does catering cost? It all depends on the factors listed above. Here’s an idea of how much you can expect to spend, based on the type of event you’re having:
- Casual backyard barbecue: $15 – $20 per person
- Formal sit-down dinner: $30 – $50 per person
- Wedding: $40 – $100 per person (or more)
- Corporate event: $25 – $75 per person
- Private party: $25 – $100 per person
Keep in mind that these are just estimates. Catering costs can vary widely depending on the specific event and menu. So be sure to get a few quotes from different caterers before making your final decision.
If you’re looking to save money, try having your event during the daytime or at an off-peak time. And keep your menu simple – stick to finger foods and buffet items. You can also try negotiating with your caterer to see if they’re willing to work within your budget. Whatever you do, don’t skimp on the food – your guests will remember a good meal long after your event is over. And that’s worth its weight in gold.
We hope this has helped you get a better understanding of how much catering costs. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us. Crateful Catering is always happy to help! We offer catering services for all your needs. From weddings to corporate events, we can do it all.
Let’s make your event amazing. We’d love to hear from you!