Q & A – Food for Vendors?

QUESTION:

How do we determine what [vendors] would like for a meal [at the wedding reception]? Do we just ask them?

Thanks!

-Jenn

ANSWER:

Hi, Jenn~

Thank you for submitting your question to Event Ethos!

I want to make sure I’m clear on what you are asking. Are you asking what is
the best way to find out what your vendors would like to eat during your
wedding reception?

If that is what you are asking, then here is my advice. The officiant and
his/her wife/husband (if appropriate) should be INVITED GUESTS with a
reserved seat and a full meal. It would be appropriate to ask them in
advance what their meal preference is.

For the rest of your vendors (DJ, photographer, band, etc.) it would be
correct to assume they will be eating and, in the situation of a plated
versus buffet dinner, order them the lowest cost menu option (e.g. chicken
rather than steak). In the case of a buffet, you can simply add each vendor
to your head count so there is enough food at the buffet for them to eat.

You can, of course, ask each vendor their food preference if you so desire
and have the time, but in the interest of time and money, it is easiest to
assume each vendor will be eating, and order them the low cost option.

Also, please check with your catering company (if you are using one) to see
if they offer a discounted rate for vendors’ meals. Some caterers will give
you a substantial discount for vendors since they are likely to eat less
than a regular guest (since they are there to work, not socialize).

Finally, be sure to make clear to your vendors that alcohol is off-limits to
them during the reception. Believe it or not, it is not unheard of for
vendors to hit up the open bar during your reception, which adds even more
cost to your overall budget.

I hope this answers your question, but if not, please let me know how else I
can help.

Happy planning!

~Eve-Maridy