Good food doesn’t always have to mean a big budget. With smart planning, you can enjoy high-quality catering for your event in India without overspending. Here’s how to build an effective catering budget and save costs where it matters.
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📊 1. Set a Per-Head Budget Early
Start with a rough per-guest budget. In most Tier-1 cities:
Basic setups can cost ₹500–₹800 per person
Premium menus can go up to ₹2,500+ per person
Fix a ballpark figure and build everything around it.
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💡 2. Choose Buffet Over Plated Service
Buffet setups are not only more interactive but also 30–40% cheaper than plated or table service. You also need fewer staff members for buffets.
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🧾 3. Limit Menu Items Strategically
You don’t need 12 starters and 6 desserts. Stick to:
2–3 starters
2 mains (1 veg, 1 non-veg)
2 desserts
1 live counter (optional)
This keeps food waste low and quality high.
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🧯 4. Avoid Peak Season Bookings
Caterers hike their rates significantly during wedding seasons (Nov–Feb, Apr–May). If your event is flexible, consider off-season dates to negotiate better deals.
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🧠 5. Ask for Package Deals
Some caterers offer per plate packages inclusive of cutlery, servers, live stations, and mocktails. These are more affordable than booking each item separately.
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📍 6. Go Local
Hiring a well-reviewed local caterer near your event location saves on transportation and setup logistics.
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✅ Conclusion
A thoughtful catering budget helps avoid overspending without compromising guest experience. Focus on quality over quantity, and work closely with your caterer to get the best value.
