Affordable Wedding Catering Options in Calgary: Great Food on a Budget
Planning a wedding is a big investment, but finding affordable catering options doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality or flavor. Calgary offers many budget-friendly catering solutions that allow couples to provide delicious food without breaking the bank. Whether you choose to work with smaller, local businesses, opt for food trucks, or create a buffet-style meal, there are plenty of ways to save on wedding catering costs while still delivering a memorable dining experience for your guests.
In this article, we'll explore some of the best affordable wedding catering options in Calgary, along with tips for budget-saving catering strategies.
Affordable Calgary Caterers and Food Trucks
1. Devour Catering
Known for their flexible and customizable menus, Devour Catering offers packages that suit different budget levels. Their "Devour on a Dime" package is perfect for couples looking for affordable yet high-quality catering for their wedding. Devour is known for offering creative menu options that can be adjusted to fit both small and large guest lists.
What They Offer: Affordable catering packages with flexible menus, including casual and buffet-style dining options.
Why Choose Them: Devour provides delicious food while working within your budget, ensuring a high level of service without compromising quality.
2. YYC Food Trucks
Food trucks are a popular and cost-effective catering option for Calgary weddings. Not only do they add a fun and informal element to the reception, but food trucks also allow for a wide variety of menu options. Many Calgary-based food trucks offer wedding packages that include serving stations, all while keeping costs lower than traditional catering.
Popular Options: Taiko Taco, is one of Calgary’s best-known food trucks that offer wedding services.
Why Choose Them: Food trucks provide a casual, interactive experience for guests, often at a lower cost than traditional catering. Plus, you can mix and match trucks to offer a variety of cuisines!
3. Alpine Sausage
If you're looking for a local caterer with budget-friendly packages, Alpine Catering offers excellent buffet-style catering at affordable rates. Specializing in homemade European-style cuisine, Alpine Sausage is known for generous portions and hearty dishes that keep guests satisfied.
What They Offer: Buffet-style catering with a focus on comfort food and traditional European flavors.
Why Choose Them: Their menus are designed for larger crowds and are budget-friendly, making them a great choice for a cost-effective wedding reception.
Budget-Saving Catering Tips for Weddings
1. Opt for Buffet or Family-Style Dining
One of the best ways to save money on wedding catering is to choose a buffet or family-style dining setup. These options reduce the number of servers needed and allow guests to serve themselves, cutting down on labor costs. Buffets also provide a casual and relaxed atmosphere, which can make the reception more interactive and fun.
Why It Saves Money: Fewer staff are required to serve food, and the portion sizes are often more flexible, helping to manage food costs.
Calgary Caterers Offering Buffets: Caterers like Great Events Catering offer a wide variety of buffet-style catering options that allow for flexibility in menu choices while remaining budget-conscious.
2. Skip the Full Dinner and Opt for Cocktail Hour Catering
Instead of serving a full dinner, consider hosting an extended cocktail hour with hearty appetizers or tapas. This can significantly reduce the cost per person, while still offering a satisfying and creative menu. Passed hors d'oeuvres or food stations also encourage guests to mingle and keep the reception lively.
Why It Saves Money: Appetizers and small plates typically cost less per person than a full sit-down meal, and you can offer a wider variety of options without overspending.
Popular Appetizers: Sliders, flatbreads, mini tacos, and vegetable skewers are just a few examples of budget-friendly options.
3. Limit the Alcohol
Alcohol can be one of the biggest expenses when it comes to wedding catering. To save on costs, consider limiting the bar to beer and wine or offering a cash bar for spirits. You can also create a signature cocktail to serve during the reception, which adds a personal touch without the need for a full bar.
Why It Saves Money: Cutting down on alcohol options reduces overall beverage costs and minimizes waste.
Calgary Tip: Look for Calgary-based vendors like Burwood Distillery or Annex Ale Project for affordable, local beer and spirits options.
Ideas for Buffet or Family-Style Dining to Save Money
1. BBQ Buffets
BBQ buffets are a popular choice for casual weddings and can be cost-effective while offering delicious, filling food. From pulled pork sliders to grilled veggies and corn on the cob, BBQ menus appeal to a wide range of guests and are budget-friendly.
Caterers to Consider: Big Sky BBQ Pit and Jane Bond BBQ offer fantastic BBQ buffet options for weddings, with customizable menus that suit different budgets.
2. Italian-Style Family Dinners
Family-style Italian dinners are another budget-friendly option. Serving large platters of pasta, fresh salads, and bread allows guests to share and creates a communal atmosphere. It’s a relaxed yet elegant option for feeding larger groups.
Popular Dishes: Lasagna, spaghetti with marinara, garlic bread, and caprese salad.
Affordable wedding catering in Calgary doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste or quality. With creative solutions like food trucks, buffet-style meals, and local caterers who offer customizable packages, you can design a wedding menu that fits both your budget and your vision. By opting for interactive, casual dining setups or focusing on a cocktail-hour experience, you can provide great food while keeping costs under control.
For more tips on affordable catering and to explore Calgary’s top caterers, visit YYCBride.com!
