Catering. Where do I even start?

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We believe that no two weddings should be the same because no two couples are the same.

That’s why we allow you to work with vendors of your choosing to truly build a personalized wedding that suites your unique style and wedding vision. We understand that with all that flexibility, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we provide you with a comprehensive guide of vendors by category as soon as you book. Having an off site caterer is an incredible perk of The Maples Estate, since you are never locked into a price point, guest minimum, or specific menu by booking with us. There are so many amazing caterers each offering their own flair for a variety of budgets, so find the caterer that speaks to you. From experience based wood fired food to personal chefs, full service catering, food trucks and farm to table vendors offering seasonal ingredients.

Many full service caterers will range between $150 to $300 per person.

Each caterer offers a different level of service so rates will vary greatly by vendor, and will be influenced by your specific tastes and wedding vision. If you need to stay under that price range, think outside the box for less traditional catering options.

Now for the fun part!

Here are some catering options to get you started!

Scroll down for tips and tricks when researching caterers!

If you love what we have to offer and decide to move forward with booking The Maples Estate for your wedding, we will send you

  1. an extensive list of vendors by category as soon as you book

  2. an editable digital wedding planning checklist.

    This vendor list is curated to suit the wide variety of events that are held at the estate and has many options to choose from so you can find vendors that match your unique style and wedding vision. We can even help you with planning, design, or coaching if you have no clue where to start or simply don’t have the time to plan.

Tips and tricks when booking a caterer.

  • Remember, it’s best to confirm all that is included in the rate before you book. Some caterers may offer bar packages, rentals such as dishes and tableware, linens, decor, event staffing, etc. and some may not. If they do not, you can always source these items through another vendor.

  • When you talk to different caterers, they may ask you about kitchen space. At The Maples Estate, we have a caterers kitchen in our 1855 Colonial Farmhouse. This kitchen is great for an intimate wedding or use during your rehearsal dinner or day after brunch, however, most caterers will want to be closer to the reception paddock for your larger celebration, and may want to setup an outdoor kitchen. This is a great way for them to build the space they require on site, and be close by to best serve you and your guests. Some caterers have their own outdoor kitchen setup and some will need to rent this setup. Another option is to find a caterer that does cooking ahead of time in an offsite kitchen, or with use of a food truck.

  • When working with a food truck or restaurant that does not often offer catering services, you may want to have a couple food trucks to choose from, offer self service items, passed items, or even make your event a cocktail setup instead of a seated dinner so there is more time for grazing. You can also take orders ahead of time to spread out the wait time, ultimately avoiding a huge rush for food all at once.

  • You can hire an event staffing company to provide additional support for those caterers with limited or no staff.

  • Remember to order more food than you think you will need or ask your caterer how much they suggest based on their experience. You can always donate food after the event if you have too much, but if you do not have enough, your guests will leave hungry!

  • Do you live in NYC? Some caterers are based out of NYC and can travel for your wedding day. This means you can have all your tastings close to home and will not have to travel to meet with your caterer every time you want to chat with them. These caterers may come with a higher price point since they are paying NYC rent and will need to travel for your wedding but they are worth it if you have the budget!

More wedding planning inspiration!