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ChecklistCategory · Food & Drink

Wedding Food & Drink Checklist

Food and drink are often one of the biggest parts of the budget and the guest experience. These tasks cover catering, cake, drinks and the small details, like vendor meals and getting-ready snacks.

Create my planSee all 7 tasks

By The ReadyToWeddy Team · Updated

Quick answer

What should be on a wedding catering checklist?

Book your caterer 9–12 months ahead, or confirm the package if your venue provides catering, plus any cake or dessert supplier. Finalize the menu after a tasting about three months out, plan drinks with good alcohol-free options, and send final numbers by your contract deadline, usually 1–3 weeks before. Plan vendor meals, and make sure the two of you eat.

Food & Drink checklist: 7 tasks in order

  1. 12+ Months Before

  2. 9–12 Months Before

    Book your cake or dessert supplier

    Check what your venue or caterer includes and allows first

    4–11 months beforeOptional

  3. 3–6 Months Before

    Finalize your menu and tasting

    Taste first, then lock in dietary options and late-night food

    2–5 months beforeEssential

    Plan the bar and drinks

    Pick a package, add alcohol-free options, confirm licensing

    2–5 months before

  4. 1–3 Months Before

    Arrange vendor meals

    Check contracts and add vendors to your caterer’s numbers

    1–3 months before

  5. Wedding Week

    Plan food and water for getting ready

    Simple snacks and water so everyone eats before it starts

    1–7 days before

  6. Wedding Day

    Make sure you eat your meal

    Sit down before greeting guests and ask for a plate saved

    Wedding day

Food & Drink guides

Step-by-step help for the biggest food & drink decisions.

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Frequently asked questions

When should you book a wedding caterer?

Book your caterer once your venue and date are confirmed, often around 9–12 months ahead. If your venue has in-house or required caterers, confirm what’s included and when you’ll finalize the menu.

Do you have to feed wedding vendors?

Some vendor contracts require a meal and break for staff working long hours. Check each contract and tell your caterer how many vendor meals to plan and when vendors will eat.

How do you handle dietary requirements at a wedding?

Ask about dietary needs and allergies on your RSVP, then share a clear list with your caterer. Mark special meals on your seating plan or place cards so staff serve the right guest.

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