Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting journeys, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges—especially when it comes to managing the budget. Among all the expenses, catering is usually one of the biggest. After all, food is one of the most talked-about parts of any wedding.
If you’re wondering, “How much does wedding catering really cost?” — this guide is for you. Whether you’re hosting a lavish celebration or an intimate gathering, we’ll break down the pricing, service styles, menu options, and tips to help you stay within budget without compromising on taste or quality.
Average Cost of Wedding Catering in India
The cost of wedding catering in India typically ranges from ₹500 to ₹2,500 per plate. However, this number can go higher depending on several factors like location, type of cuisine, and the reputation of the caterer.
Here’s a quick look at average per-plate costs:
| Catering Type | Average Cost per Plate |
|---|---|
| Simple Veg Menu | ₹500 – ₹800 |
| Traditional North Indian | ₹800 – ₹1,500 |
| Multi-Cuisine Buffet | ₹1,000 – ₹2,500+ |
| Live Food Counters | ₹150 – ₹400 (extra) |
| Dessert Section | ₹100 – ₹300 (extra) |
| Non-Veg Add-ons | ₹200 – ₹600 (extra) |
Pro Tip: Multiply the per-plate cost by the number of guests to get a base idea of the total catering budget.
What’s Included in a Wedding Catering Package?
Many people assume that catering is just about the food, but professional caterers usually offer a complete dining experience. A typical package includes:
- Full menu with starters, mains, desserts
- Buffet or plated setup
- Crockery, cutlery, and glassware
- Trained service staff
- Food counters (standard and live)
- Clean-up after service
- Table arrangements for buffet counters
- Drinking water and soft beverages (optional)
High-end packages may also include personalized menu boards, themed food stalls, chefs at live counters, and more.
Key Factors That Affect Wedding Catering Costs
1. Guest Count
The most direct impact on cost comes from the number of guests. More guests = more plates = more money. Some caterers offer discounts for larger groups, but the overall budget will still scale with attendance.
2. Menu Complexity
A simple vegetarian menu is cost-effective. But if you include international cuisines, seafood, elaborate desserts, or fusion dishes, the price will increase.
Basic Menu:
- 2 Starters
- 3 Main Courses
- 1 Rice/Biryani
- 2 Desserts
Premium Menu:
- 4–6 Starters
- 4+ Main Courses
- 2–3 Rice/Indian Breads
- 3–5 Desserts
- 1–2 Live Counters
- Mocktails or Welcome Drinks
3. Service Style
There are mainly three types of catering service styles:
- Buffet Service: Self-service, economical, faster flow.
- Plated Service: Staff serves food at each table; more elegant but expensive.
- Live Counters: Chefs prepare food in real-time. Highly interactive but adds to the cost.
4. Type of Cuisine
Multi-cuisine menus featuring Chinese, Continental, Italian, South Indian, and Mughlai dishes cost more than regional or single-cuisine menus.
5. Venue and Setup
If your venue doesn’t have a kitchen, your caterer may need to set up a temporary kitchen, which adds extra logistics and costs. Also, destination weddings often involve travel and accommodation charges for staff and chefs.
6. Add-ons and Extras
Additional services like welcome drinks, mocktail bars, snack servers during the event, or special arrangements for Jain/Gluten-Free/Vegan guests will affect the overall cost.
Comparing Different Wedding Catering Options
➤ Vegetarian vs Non-Vegetarian
While vegetarian menus are generally cheaper, adding non-veg dishes like chicken, fish, or mutton can raise the per-plate cost by ₹200–₹600.
➤ Buffet vs Plated
Buffets are more common and cost-efficient. Plated services are perfect for luxury weddings but can increase costs by 20–40%.
➤ In-House vs External Caterers
Some banquet halls have in-house caterers. They might offer fixed packages that are slightly cheaper, but external caterers (like Kamal Caters) offer greater flexibility, customization, and quality.
Sample Wedding Catering Budget Breakdown (Example for 300 Guests)
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic Veg Menu (₹900 x 300) | ₹2,70,000 |
| Live Counters (₹250 x 300) | ₹75,000 |
| Beverages/Mocktails | ₹30,000 |
| Service Staff & Setup | ₹40,000 |
| Crockery & Cutlery | ₹20,000 |
| Total | ₹4,35,000 |
Note: These are sample estimates and can vary widely by region and vendor.
How to Save Money on Wedding Catering
Saving on catering doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Here are some smart ways to reduce costs:
✅ Finalize Your Guest List Early
Avoid over-ordering. Most caterers plan 10–15% extra, so keep your final list accurate.
✅ Opt for Local & Seasonal Ingredients
They are fresher, tastier, and cheaper than imported or off-season items.
✅ Choose Limited but Popular Dishes
Don’t overload your menu. Guests usually eat 1–2 starters and 2 main course items. Focus on quality over quantity.
✅ Mix Premium and Basic Dishes
Combine budget-friendly dishes with a few specialty items to maintain balance.
✅ Book in Advance
Many caterers offer early-bird discounts, especially during off-season weddings.
Questions to Ask Your Wedding Caterer
Before finalizing, always ask the caterer these important questions:
- What is included in your per-plate pricing?
- Do you charge separately for live counters and desserts?
- Are beverages included?
- How many servers will be provided?
- What’s your backup plan in case of bad weather (for outdoor events)?
- Can you arrange Jain, Vegan, or Gluten-Free food?
- What are your cancellation or refund policies?
Why Good Catering Matters at Weddings
A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and good food leaves a lasting impression on your guests. A well-organized and delicious catering service ensures everyone walks away happy and satisfied.
From first impressions to final bites, food plays a central role in Indian weddings. That’s why choosing a trusted caterer like Kamal Caters can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Wedding catering is one of the most important investments in your big day. By understanding the factors that affect pricing, the different service options, and how to plan your menu smartly, you can host a memorable wedding without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional North Indian spread, a modern fusion menu, or a mix of live food counters and desserts, the right caterer will work with your vision and your budget.
Planning a wedding in Agra or nearby?
At Kamal Caters, we provide end-to-end catering services that are customized to your taste and budget. With over 10 years of experience, a wide range of menus, and a team of trained professionals, we make sure your guests are treated to a delightful dining experience.
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