What Is the Average Cost to Feed 100 People at a Wedding?

Bride and groom enjoying their wedding food catering cost-friendly plated dinner

Make Your Dream Day Delicious—Without Breaking the Bank

Introduction: Why Wedding Catering Costs Matter

Planning a wedding comes with lots of exciting choices—and one of the most important is the food. If you’ve been asking yourself “How much does it cost to cater a wedding?” or trying to figure out the best catering services cost for your event, you’re not alone.

At Brown Brothers Catering, we help couples across Utah turn wedding dreams into reality with unforgettable meals at realistic prices. Let’s walk through what impacts your wedding food catering cost, and how to make the most of your budget.

Understanding Wedding Catering Costs

The total catering cost to feed a wedding crowd can vary widely. The number of guests, the style of service, and the food you choose all influence the final price.

Here are a few general trends:

  1. Buffets tend to be more cost-efficient than plated dinners.
  2. Heavy hors d’oeuvres or brunch menus may offer great value.
  3. Custom menus and chef action stations often come at a premium—but can be worth it for the wow factor.

💡 Tip: For the best experience, focus on what matters most to you—whether that’s an elegant service style or fun, interactive stations.

Want ideas? Take a look at our buffet options or light reception menus.

Outdoor buffet-style reception showing real wedding catering costs in Utah

What Impacts the Cost of Wedding Catering?

Your total catering services cost depends on a few major decisions:

  1. Guest Count – More guests can mean more food, more staff, and more logistics.
  2. Menu Style – A plated steak dinner will differ in cost from a build-your-own taco bar.
  3. Service TypeBuffet, plated dinner, or chef action stations? Each has different labor needs.
  4. Extras – Desserts, beverages, and rentals can increase the overall investment.

Explore the flexibility in our seasonal menus to match your vision and the season of your big day.

Guests serving themselves at interactive catering stations—great for managing catering services cost

Popular Wedding Catering Options

Couples love the variety we offer, from casual to upscale. Here are a few popular styles we often cater:

Wedding Style Menu Type Ideal For
Elegant Ballroom Plated 3-Course Formal sit-down receptions
Rustic Backyard BBQ Buffet Relaxed, family-style settings
Brunch Vibes Breakfast Spread Mid-morning or daytime events
Cocktail Evening Passed Appetizers Trendy, interactive gatherings

You can customize your experience based on budget, theme, and taste. Learn more about breakfast catering or appetizer spreads that keep things light and delicious.

Smart Ways to Stay Within Budget

You don’t have to spend a fortune to impress your guests. Here’s how to keep your wedding catering cost in check:

→  Use food stations or buffets to reduce staff needs

→ Pick seasonal ingredients from our menus to maximize freshness and savings

→ Stick to a limited bar menu with just wine, beer, or a signature drink

→ Consider combining dessert catering with cake alternatives for variety and value

Frequently Asked Questions About Catering Costs

Costs vary, but we’ll help you tailor a menu that fits your guest list and your goals. Get started with our cost-per-person guide.
Definitely. Light receptions and brunch or lunch options are great for stretching your budget.
Yes! Explore the benefits of tastings in this article.
We’ve got you covered with gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-conscious options.

Why Couples Trust Brown Brothers Catering

We’ve helped countless Utah couples create joyful, stress-free celebrations. Whether you’re planning a grand ballroom affair or an intimate backyard wedding, our team will deliver with care and creativity.

♦ See why we’re Utah’s trusted wedding caterer

Explore our reception center partnerships

Let’s Start Planning Your Perfect Menu

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“The best memories are made around the table.”

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