What Should I Look for in a Wedding Catering Service?

Determine Your Budget
One of the first—and most important—steps in selecting your wedding caterer is setting a clear and realistic budget. Catering can easily become one of the biggest investments in your wedding, so having a strong handle on your numbers will help you stay on track and avoid unexpected surprises.
When building your budget, be sure to factor in more than just the food. Think about staffing, rentals, bar services, and any special requests like vegan or gluten-free meals. A well-rounded view of your needs makes it easier to communicate with potential caterers and get accurate quotes.
The guest count also plays a major role in determining your final cost. Many caterers, including True Roots Catering, offer tiered pricing based on the number of guests and the selected menu. Having a rough estimate ready can streamline the planning process and keep conversations efficient.
Evaluate Menu Options
With your budget in place, you can start exploring menu options. The food you serve is a reflection of your style as a couple—it can elevate the vibe of your celebration and create lasting memories for your guests. Think about what you both love to eat and consider incorporating dishes that reflect your culture, favorite date-night meals, or unique twists on classics.
Variety is key. Offering a mix of options—including vegetarian, vegan, or allergen-conscious dishes—shows thoughtfulness and ensures all your guests feel welcome at the table. A great caterer should work with you to customize a menu that feels personal and inclusive.
At True Roots Catering, we believe that flavor, presentation, and service all matter equally. Make sure to schedule a tasting when possible to ensure the quality matches your expectations—and to get excited about what’s to come!
Consider the Service Style
How your meal is served can shape the overall flow and energy of your reception. Are you dreaming of a formal sit-down dinner, a more relaxed buffet, or a fun cocktail-style event with passed appetizers? Each approach offers a different experience, so think about what feels most authentic to you as a couple.
A sit-down dinner adds a touch of elegance and structure, while a buffet encourages mingling and a bit more flexibility. If you're unsure, ask your caterer for their recommendations based on your venue, timeline, and guest count. They’ll also help you understand the staffing needs for each style so nothing falls through the cracks.
Check Reviews and References
Before making your final decision, do a little research. Reading reviews and talking to past clients can give you a behind-the-scenes look at how a caterer operates. Did they deliver what they promised? Was the food a hit? Were they helpful and organized?
Don’t hesitate to ask for references. A reputable caterer will be happy to connect you with previous clients. Also, check sites like The Knot, Google, or Yelp to get a fuller picture. Look for consistency in feedback—both good and bad—to help you make an informed decision.
Discuss Dietary Needs Early
In today’s world, dietary needs and preferences are more important than ever. Whether you’re planning for food allergies, lifestyle choices, or religious restrictions, make sure your caterer can accommodate everyone at your celebration.
Bring up these needs in your initial meetings and ask how the caterer handles special meals. A professional team, like the one at True Roots Catering, should be ready to offer thoughtful and delicious alternatives without making anyone feel like an afterthought.
Also, consider gathering this info from guests via your RSVP cards or wedding website. The earlier you know, the smoother things will go on the big day.
Ask About Experience and Support
Experience matters. Weddings are complex events with lots of moving parts, and your catering team should be able to handle it all with grace and professionalism. Ask how many weddings they’ve done and if they’re familiar with your venue or similar settings.
It’s also helpful to know what kind of support you’ll get during the planning process. Will someone be available to coordinate logistics, answer questions, and troubleshoot if needed? A seasoned team can be a true partner in bringing your vision to life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right wedding catering service is about more than just food—it’s about creating an experience that you and your guests will remember forever. From setting a budget to selecting a menu and confirming the service style, taking time with each step will help ensure everything flows smoothly.
And if you're looking for a team that combines creativity, professionalism, and a love for great food, True Roots Catering would be honored to be part of your special day.






