Planning your dream wedding involves many decisions, with catering being one of the most significant. After all, food and drinks are often the highlight of the celebration! To help you budget effectively, we’ve researched the average cost of catering for weddings in Canada in 2024.
The average cost of wedding catering in Canada ranges between $50 to $150 per guest, depending on factors like menu type, service style, and the region. For a typical wedding of 100 guests, this translates to a catering budget of $5,000 to $15,000.
Factors That Influence Catering Costs
- Service Style
- Plated Meals: Most formal and costly, ranging from $70 to $150 per guest.
- Buffet Style: Mid-range option, costing between $50 to $100 per guest.
- Family Style: A mix of plated and buffet, averaging $60 to $120 per guest.
- Food Stations: Trendy and interactive, costing $70 to $130 per guest.
- Menu Choices
- Appetizers: $5 to $15 per guest.
- Main Course: $30 to $80 per guest.
- Desserts: $5 to $15 per guest, or $3 to $10 for a dessert bar.
- Beverages
- Alcohol Packages: Open bar options range from $15 to $40 per guest.
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: $5 to $10 per guest.
- Location
Catering costs are often higher in metropolitan areas like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, compared to smaller cities or rural regions. - Additional Costs
- Staffing: Servers, bartenders, and chefs can add $300 to $1,500 to the total cost.
- Equipment Rental: Plates, utensils, and linens can cost $500 to $2,000 depending on guest count and style.
How to Save on Wedding Catering
- Trim the Guest List
Catering is charged per guest, so reducing the headcount can significantly lower costs. - Simplify the Menu
Opt for fewer courses or choose seasonal, local ingredients to cut expenses. - Consider DIY Options
For smaller weddings, you might provide desserts or appetizers yourself. - Negotiate with Vendors
Many caterers are open to creating custom packages that fit your budget. - Opt for Alternative Serving Styles
Buffets or family-style meals can reduce staffing costs while offering variety.
Popular Catering Trends in Canada for 2024
- Farm-to-Table Menus
Highlighting fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients. - Interactive Food Stations
From taco bars to sushi stations, these are fun and engaging for guests. - Late-Night Snacks
Mini poutines, sliders, or doughnuts keep the party alive! - Customizable Menus
Accommodating dietary preferences like vegan, gluten-free, or allergen-friendly options.
Final Thoughts
Catering is an integral part of your wedding day, and understanding the average costs can help you plan effectively. Whether you’re hosting an intimate backyard celebration or a grand ballroom event, there’s a catering style to suit your needs and budget.
If you’re looking for wedding catering services in Canada, check out Wedding Pricer to compare vendor prices and find the perfect fit for your big day!