Find trusted wedding caterers near you

When you book wedding catering near you through Airtasker, you can typically expect a package that includes food, servers, and sometimes even the dinnerware, tables, and chairs. Different wedding caterers and catering services offer different packages and menus, so it is essential to find one whose menu fits your taste and dietary restrictions. Not to mention, their serving style and decor should complement your wedding theme.

In general, here’s what you can expect from a wedding caterer’s services.

Wedding food options

Wedding feasts can mean anything from brunch or a cocktail-style reception to a 5-course plated dinner (or even a casual barbecue or pizza event!). Caterers typically have a variety of dishes to choose from, as well as recommended combinations. If you and your partner are looking for a specific cuisine, you can easily find Asian, Italian, or French-style caterers on Airtasker. Those with dietary restrictions like Indian or plant based diets can also specify these on the task post.

Plated meals tend to be the priciest option when it comes to catering, since each course is served to every guest individually, which takes more staff. Guests stay seated and don’t need to get up for seconds. It also allows for attractive plating of each course. Family-style set-ups let guests stay seated and get as much - or as little - as they like from each plate of food. This is an excellent style for those with intimate weddings where the ones at each table are already quite close.

Buffets have long been a favourite during receptions since they have a casual vibe, cost less, and let guests ask for smaller portions (or come back for seconds).

Beverages

Some caterers may also offer beverages (including liquor) as part of their package. These can be served alongside the meals, at a separate buffet table or a bar. A wedding caterer may also include a bartender as part of their inclusions. 

Servers and waitstaff

These servers will set up, serve, tend the bar, refill drinks and food trays, clear tables, and clean up after the reception. When booking a caterer, you’ll want to ask about their guest-to-server ratio to ensure that everyone on your list is accommodated during the event. 

Besides the duties listed above, you can also ask servers to assist with cake cutting and champagne or chocolate fountains. 

Tables, chairs, and dinnerware set-up

If your reception venue doesn’t provide these items, you’ll want a wedding caterer who can rent out all of these items to you. A Tasker may even be able to coordinate the look of the tablecloths and centrepieces to match your wedding theme. 

Once you settle into married life and want to spice up your usual dinner fare, consider using Airtasker to get speciality groceries delivered. Even better, you can ask a private chef to cook a special meal for you and your partner - perfect for your first anniversary! 

Tipping and service charges for wedding catering staff

Tipping isn’t expected in Australia, because catering staff are paid wages. If the team goes above and beyond, a thank-you is a nice gesture, usually as a lump sum given to the catering manager to share. But it’s optional, not part of the bill.

What matters more is what’s in the quote. Check how many staff hours are included and the overtime rate if your reception runs late. Look for weekend or public holiday surcharges, any service or staffing fee listed separately from the food, whether GST is included, and extras such as equipment hire or cake-cutting. Ask for an itemised quote so you can compare caterers on the same basis.