The best magazine
For instance, some wedding venues offer their own catering staff. You can choose to get your own wedding caterer since this may save you lots of money. But other in house caterers offer affordable meal plans. It would be best if you compare their prices and there is where you should decide.
You could also consider not serving a full meal since serving one can be expensive. Have your wedding reception earlier in the day so your guests will not expect a full meal. An afternoon wedding where you can serve cocktail and finger food reception will allow you to save thousands of dollars compared if you are going to have a full meal.
Another way to do your wedding planning [http://www.womenlikethat.com/2011/05/summer-wedding-planning-advice/] is to have a buffet meal instead of plated meal. Although serving a plated meal can be classy, it can also cost a lot. If you are going to have more of a casual affair, better have a buffet style. You can order the same food from the plated menu, but because your guest will be getting their own food, you can save a lot of money too.
You should also think about how you will serve alcohol. Most guests will look forward to drinking loads of free alcohol, but keep in mind that alcohol can be very expensive. Instead of serving an open bar though, you can consider serving wine at each table. You can also provide your own alcohol and mixers especially if the venue allows for it. If you can bring your own, then you can save lots of money than paying a bartender to do it.
Always try to ask for a discount with your caterer. A lot of wedding vendors are open for a negotiation since they want to do business with you. See if they can make the cost decreased or waived all together. Don't get scared since you still have the option of finding another one if both of you don't agree with the wedding budget for the food.
Source: ...