Catering Your Own Food

So, you're trying to cater your own big day?

Step back and take a deep breath. Maybe two.

This will be your most stressful "adventure", if you're a control freak like me.

Step One: Plan your menu. Choose easy items that don't need TLC right before it's served, unless you plan on hiring a few college kids to watch over your buffet.

Step Two: Hire those college kids. Seriously. Hire SOMEONE! ANYONE!!! You'll need the extra hands and you should NOT be worried about the potato salad right before walking down the aisle. Find a few people you can trust and ask them to make sure everything with the food is taken care of and you and family don't have to worry.

Side note: DO NOT expect family to tend to something. They will get distracted and want to enjoy your big day too. Things will get missed and not done how you like them, so do yourself this favor and spend a little money on asking someone to watch over the buffet.

Step Three: Get your guest count and plan to make extra, especially if you're serving buffet style.

This is the most important thing. If you don't have enough food, that's a BIG BIG problem that won't go over well. Guests will leave and basically you'll be throwing all the money you spent on other things out the window. Hungry guests aren't happy guests.

Step Four: Google a guide on proving enough food for events. You'll absolutely need this. When they say 10 appetizers per person, they mean it. Seriously. Don't skimp on food. If you're thinking about skimping, see number three again. Hungry guests leave early.

Feel free to reach out, if you have any questions on catering or proving your own food. As a chef, this is something I can absolutely help with, even if you're not interested in booking me for your photography! Food is important!