Average Wedding Cost: How Much Should You Budget for Your Big Day?
Planning a wedding is exciting but requires careful budgeting, especially when it comes to catering. Wedding catering can easily be one of the largest expenses for your big day, with the average cost in Australia sitting around $10,000. Many couples spend between $6,000 and $14,000, depending on guest count, menu choices, and catering style. And if you’d like a standard bar service, budget an extra $20–$30 per person on top of the food.
Here’s a closer look at what you can expect when budgeting for your wedding catering in Australia.
What’s Included in Wedding Catering?
When you book a wedding catering service, it usually includes essentials such as menu planning, meal preparation, and food presentation. Standard packages might offer plated or buffet-style meals, appetizers, and sometimes even desserts.
Some catering services provide additional options like, a service of a wedding planner or staff for serving, cleanup, and rentals for tableware and linens. Always ask for a detailed breakdown so you know exactly what you’re getting—and whether you need to budget for any extras.
What is the Most Expensive Part of the Wedding?
Catering often comes in as one of the biggest wedding costs, right up there with the venue. In Melbourne, catering isn’t just about the food—there’s also staff, table settings, and bar service to consider. Expect to spend 30-50% of your total budget on food and drinks.
If you’re choosing a plated, multi-course meal or need options for special diets, the cost can climb by another 15-25%. Getting a clear quote that breaks down per-guest pricing and any extras can help you avoid surprises.
Average Wedding Catering Cost per Person
Below is a breakdown of the average cost per guest, giving you an idea of how much to budget based on the style of service:
- Cocktail/Appetizers Only: $45–$55 per person
- Buffet: $55–$65 per person
- Brunch or Restaurant Dinner: $65–$75 per person
- Dinner at a Wedding Venue: $90–$150 per person (for a standard three-course menu including a starter, main, and dessert)
These estimates are meant to guide you, but prices may vary based on region, seasonal ingredients, and menu complexity.
Wedding Catering Cost Factors
Several factors can impact the cost of catering for your wedding:
- Venue Requirements: Some venues require couples to use their in-house caterers, which may come at a premium.
- Guest Count: The more guests you invite, the more you’ll spend per head.
- Menu Choices: Gourmet or specialty ingredients, multi-course meals, and plated service add to the cost.
- Additional Services: Bar packages, late-night snacks, and additional courses can increase the overall budget.
Guests with Restrictive Diets
Providing for guests with dietary restrictions (like vegan, gluten-free, or allergen-free options) can also add to the cost. Caterers often charge a premium for specialized meals, but it’s a good way to ensure all your guests are comfortable and catered to.
Watch out for Hidden Wedding Catering Costs
- Extra Staffing: Overtime for servers, bartenders, or chefs can sneak up if the event goes long.
- Travel Fees: If your venue is far, caterers might charge for transport and setup.
- Menu Tasting: Some caterers don’t offer free tastings—ask upfront.
- Service Add-Ons: Things like cake cutting, coffee stations, or late-night snacks can add up.
- Bar Costs: Corkage fees or per-guest charges for open bars.
- Equipment Rentals: Plates, glassware, or even heaters for outdoor venues.
- Leftover Packaging: Surprising but true—some charge to pack up leftovers!
Ask for a detailed breakdown to avoid surprises!
What Are Some Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding Caterer?
If you’re looking to cut down on catering costs, here are some actionable strategies:
- Opt for a Buffet Over a Plated Meal: Buffets typically require less staff and are less costly. A buffet can save you at least 10–20% compared to plated service.
- Limit the Menu Options: Reduce the number of entrees or appetizer choices to keep things simple and reduce ingredient costs.
- Choose Seasonal Ingredients: Ask your caterer to create a menu based on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. This can significantly cut costs, especially if items don’t need to be imported.
- Consider Drop-Off Catering: If you’re hosting a more casual event, some caterers offer drop-off services, where they prepare the food but don’t stay to serve. This can help you save on labor costs.
How to Choose Your Wedding Caterer
Selecting the right caterer comes down to three main points: budget, menu style, and service quality. Always ask for tastings and references to ensure the caterer aligns with your vision and standards. Discuss your budget openly, as many caterers can suggest creative solutions to help you stay within it without sacrificing quality.
ACC Catering: 30 Years of Tradition
With over 30 years in the industry, ACC Catering understands how to balance quality and affordability. Their team specializes in a range of catering options, from cocktail-style service to full-service plated dinners. If you’re planning a wedding in Melbourne and want expert guidance, ACC Catering can help create a delicious, memorable menu tailored to your style and budget.
Note: All prices mentioned are estimates and may vary based on specific choices, guest count, and location.
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