We know how quickly costs can add up when you’re planning a wedding or special event. The food is such an important part of the day, but that doesn’t mean it has to
take over the biggest slice of your budget. With a few clever choices, you can still give your guests something memorable and delicious — without overspending.
Here are three ways we love to help our customers make their budget go further:
1. Swap Starters for Canapés
We’re big fans of canapés. Plated starters can be beautiful, but they take more time at the table, require more staff to serve, and cost more. Canapés, on the other hand, keep things light and social.
Guests can enjoy little bites while they mingle, chat, or soak up the surroundings. And because you can offer several options, there’s always something for everyone. Think smoked salmon and dill blinis or courgette fritters with garlic aioli — bite-sized, beautiful, and full of flavour.
While they’re enjoying those treats, your budget stretches further, and the event feels relaxed and fun right from the start.
2. Keep the Menu Streamlined
It’s tempting to offer endless options, but in our experience, guests are happiest when the menu is simple and focused. Two carefully chosen mains and one show-stopping dessert can feel more polished than a long list of dishes.
This approach doesn’t just reduce costs — it also ensures each dish gets the attention it deserves. Guests notice w
hen every plate tastes incredible and looks beautiful. A streamlined menu means your budget goes further while your dishes shine.
3. Choose Buffet, Family-Style Dining (or a Dessert Table!)
Plated dinners are elegant, but they’re not the only way to impress. Buffets, family-style meals, and even dessert tables can all create a wow factor — often for less cost.
Buffets give guests the freedom to fill their plates with what they love most, while family-style dishes passed around the table spark conversation and create a relaxed, communal vibe. Picture a colourful Mediterranean platter of fresh salads, cheeses, and breads, or heartier hot options like chicken and mushroom in white wine or a rich beef bourguignon, served with rice, vegetables, or salad. Abundant, inviting, and full of flavour — it’s a feast your guests won’t forget.
And don’t forget dessert! Instead of individual plated puddings, a dessert table can be a real showstopper.
Guests love helping themselves to treats like slices of cake, brownies, pavlova, or bowls of fresh fruit. It feels generous, relaxed, and interactive — and often works out more cost-effective than serving everyone the same plated dessert.
A Final Note from Us
Food should feel generous, joyful, and full of flavour — no matter the budget. By swapping starters for canapés, streamlining the menu, and exploring buffet, family-style, or dessert table options, you can stretch your budget without ever feeling like you’ve cut back.