[funnyvalentine]

There are several very good reasons why wedding cost more than other events, not the least of it is the emotional importance to the family and the time that goes into planning and coordinating it on the caterers' side of things. There is infinitely more detail, and the planning typically takes multiple meetings, not just a phone call. There is the very real notion that the event is (hopefully) a once in a lifetime party, and everything has to be right the first time. There is much more scrutiny of food and staff.. There is not other type of party, at least at my company, that demands the attention and concentration of our staff, pre party, chef staff, and on site. There is very often at least one tasting and an on site visit, all of which spelll out staff time. During "wedding season", there is also the expense of bringing in more staff, renting more equiptment, and seasonal increases in wholesale food. Most of my wedding sites also demand extensive insurance, which as we all know, is costly.

I'm not saying that anyone should be prepared to just through infinite amounts of money at a reception, because it doesn't make it a better party in most cases, but a couple should have a realistic budget and be prepared to be flexible about things that really are not of top importance to them.
2) This may be different in other areas, but in the NYC metro area while costs to the caterer are the same no matter what time of year the event is held, many places can and DO charge more for weddings than other events, and charge more for weddings during the 'wedding season' than in the off season. Having researched both kinds of events, I have the paperwork to prove it.

There are many ways to cut costs and still have a fabulous wedding. I think it is a matter of setting priorities, doing research and remembering that the wedding last one day, the marriage lasts the rest of your life.[/quote]