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Congratulations Lovebirds! Welcome to the exciting journey of planning a wedding. Don't worry -- with the right people in your corner, you'll navigate every detail with confidence and ease. From choosing the right caterer to selecting the perfect decor, We're dedicated to helping you create the wedding of your dreams. So grab a drink, cozy up and let's chat about all the things to consider when choosing your caterer!
Start Early: When it comes to choosing a caterer, timing is everything. Ideally, you should start looking for a caterer 6-12 months before your wedding date. This timeline will allow you to explore all your options, schedule tastings, and secure the caterer that aligns with your tastebuds and vision. We're fortunate to have a fantastic and diverse selection of caterers in Canton, Dover and Northeast Ohio, who cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. Keep reading to discover some of our tried and true favorites!
Know Your Wedding Style and Theme: Before you make a call, take a minute to discuss your wedding style and theme. Are you envisioning a formal sit-down dinner, a casual buffet, or perhaps a food truck experience? Understanding your vision will help narrow down caterers who can execute your vision beautifully. Remember, your caterer should complement the overall aesthetic and vibe of your wedding, making every bite enhance this wonderful experience for you and your guests!
Set A Budget: Of course this is a biggy! Catering costs can vary widely, so it's so important for you to know your budget early on. Whe you begin the search, talk about your budget opening. A good caterer will work with you to create a menu that fits within your financial plan while still offering delicious options. Pricing will differ from area to area and you may be surprised at how willing caterers are willing to travel, especially if they love working at your chosen venue, so don't feel limited to a certain region -- get out there and explore your culinary possibilities!
Research Local Caterers: Although we have a growing list of caterers that are willing to travel to our venue, we love supporting local! Canton and Dover, Ohio are home to many talented caterers who can bring your culinary dreams to life. Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or other vendors you're working with. Online reviews and social media can also provide good insight into the reputations and specialities of local caterers. Don't hesitate to reach our and ask questions -- this is your day and you deserve to feel confident in your choices!
Schedule Tastings: Let's be honest..this is the fun part! Once you've narrowed down your options its time to experience the caterer's food firsthand. This allows you to not only tickle your tastebuds, but gauge their presentation and creativity (an often overlooked but extremely important catering aspect) and discuss dietary restrictions or special requests. Bon Appetit!
Review Contracts and Policies: I know—boring, right? But it’s absolutely necessary to ensure a smooth and successful event. Carefully read your caterer’s contract and policies to avoid surprises. Make sure it includes a detailed menu description, covering dietary restrictions and special requests, as well as a clear breakdown of pricing, payment plans, and any additional fees like service charges or gratuity. Check for a cancellation or refund policy and confirm what services are included, such as staffing, tableware, linens, and setup/teardown. Verify that the timeline for service is clearly outlined, detailing when it will begin and end. Ensure the caterer has proper insurance and follows safe food handling practices. Look for information about tastings—are they included in the agreement? Finally, identify the main point of contact to ensure smooth communication throughout the planning process. Taking these steps can save you headaches and help your event go off without a hitch.
Collaborate with Your Venue: Your wedding venue can be an invaluable resource when selecting your caterer and other vendors. As a venue owner serving couples in the Canton, Dover, and Northeast Ohio areas, I work hard to make the planning process as smooth as possible, and your venue should do the same. Many venues provide a preferred vendor list, including caterers, based on their extensive experience with reliable professionals. Don’t be discouraged by this—it’s a reflection of their expertise and commitment to quality. These recommendations are designed to ensure capable and dependable vendors who will positively impact your wedding day. Additionally, venues often have specific requirements and suggestions to ensure your event runs seamlessly and looks beautiful, which benefits both you and their reputation. Working with your venue can make all the difference in creating a stress-free and memorable day.
Your almost one more delicious step away from your dream day! Remember—this is your day. The food and vibe you choose should resonate with you as a couple reflect your unique love story—adding another layer of joy to your celebration. If you’re just starting to plan your happily ever after and haven’t selected your venue—or your caterer—yet, we’d love to invite you to visit us! Together, we can create an unforgettable day filled with love, laughter, and, of course, incredible food. Here’s to delicious bites and memories that last a lifetime!
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We are dedicated to using our platform to support other locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include links to locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. Be prepared to be inspired by the beauty of their venues and talent of their clients and vendors. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map
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