Picking a location for your wedding is not an easy decision.   And, further complicating the process is the fact that most couples choose to get married on a Saturday—causing long waiting lists at many venues.

So, when you’re thinking about where to enjoy your special day, remember that almost no location is out of the question.  With the right equipment, caterers can prepare a delicious meal in almost any setting.   From a remote field to a scenic lakeside setting, there are many outdoor options—and all the usual indoor venues that you probably have considered.   Don’t forget
that your church or synagogue may have a space that is just as functional and attractive as a more formal location—-and usually is much more affordable.

And, yes, it’s ideal to have your wedding on a Saturday night-but it may limit your venue options.  So, consider a Friday, Sunday or even a weekday night.  This may save you a considerable amount of money that can be spent elsewhere to make your event even more memorable.   If that doesn’t change your mind and you must get married on a Saturday—you might consider starting the day with the main event.   Your “sunrise wedding” will end with
guests enjoying a warm breakfast/brunch with a Belgium waffle station or crepe station and mimosas.

As I mentioned before, these times require most to think of the bottom line-and the service industry is no exception.  Work with your caterer and potential venue sites to choose a time and location that is comfortable for you and your family.   Then, go ahead and plan the day of your dreams.

These days I think we all are on sensory overload with the words “economic downturn”, “recession”, “depression”, and the like.  The pain can be felt across all sectors of the economy and we, in the food service business, are not immune to it either.

While every potential customer wants to ensure that they can receive the greatest quality for the lowest costs, this is particularly true during these troubling times for those young couples who are making preparations for their wedding day.

I thought I would share some with you the same thoughts that I have expressed to those brides-to-be, and hope this information is helpful.  Since there is much to cover I will break it into 3 parts.

• First, plain and simple: If you need to reduce costs, reduce the number of guests.  Yes, we at JSC understand that you want to have everyone share in your exciting day, but if you are going to spend $40 per guest for a reception for 250 of your closest friends, it probably is not going to come off the way you want it to.  So, reduce the guest list to 110 friends and family, and at $90 per guest, it may just be the wedding of which you always dreamed.

• Second, most caterers (us included) are reacting to the market in some sort of fashion.  Some are adding in hors d’ oeuvres at no charge, others are throwing in a chocolate fondue “River”, while others are offering special value added menus.  But be careful.   Like anything else in life, you get what you pay for.  If it seems too good to be true it probably is.

• Third, we work hard to provide every bride-to-be with all the information necessary to make an informed decision.  There are some things to keep in mind, however, when you are comparing caterers.  And, the most important may be that each caterer has their “signature”, and sometimes you might find yourself comparing apples to oranges.   So, be careful.   Compare the overall package and make a decision based on both price and performance.  You should be comfortable knowing that your choice of caterer will play role in helping to make your wedding day dreams come true!

Up Next: In Part #2, I will share additional thoughts on ways you can create a spectacular wedding even during challenging economic times.