Can You LOSE Control to GAIN?

One of the fascinating things about working within the hospitality arena is the various personality types you encounter when planning an event. Planning a wedding can bring out behavioral traits in people you never knew existed!  Whether you are a type A, B, or DEF, it’s difficult to let go of control when it comes to planning a wedding. But to save some money, it might be worth it. 

The wedding budget is as important to create AND maintain as the wedding itself. Without it, CHAOS will commence!  A skilled wedding planner can provide a practical, “realistic” budget for you. Even still, some large expenses like the wedding reception/dinner are necessary and unavoidable. So, how can we get it done without breaking the bank? Lose control!

To keep within your budget, hand over the menu selection to your catering manager. Yes, your dream wedding might also include a dream reception menu. But, most don’t realize food/beverage needs can “eat up” a large portion of any wedding budget.

If you are concerned about keeping the cost down, LET GO of any preconceived menu and ask your catering manager to put together a menu based on your desired fiscal outcome. For example; to keep your reception affordable, you determine you need to “realistically” spend $5,000 for the cocktail reception and $10,000 on dinner. Request your catering manager put together the best menu options, using those parameters. You might be surprised at what a good, creative catering manager can come up with for you.

I’ve used this method for corporate functions on more than one occasion, and many times the catering manager comes up with a BETTER menu than I would have selected. Again, a GOOD, CREATIVE catering manager knows what’s possible to maximize your money because they have the inside track on things like: what’s in season, a chef’s specialty, or items that are plentiful and cost effective. They can also tell you what brands of alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages fit within budget. 

Of course, you need to vet their suggestions AND make sure you and your planner come in for a tasting. I’m not suggesting “blind faith” when it comes to your reception! Hey, this type-A (me) isn’t that reformed, LOL. However if you’re willing to relinquish control of your menu, you might be able to gain a better outcome than you anticipated!  

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