19 Wedding Food Ideas  on a Budget

Weddings are generally one of the most expensive events in life. The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is a whopping $20,300, and that's not even counting the honeymoon!

We've put together a list of wedding food ideas that will save you money without skimping on taste.

Budgeting for $50 a person should cover everything from hors d'oeuvres and cocktails to the main course and dessert. Of course, this is a rough estimate – you may spend more or less depending on your specific menu.

What Is a Good Budget  for Food at a Wedding?

One option is to have a buffet instead of a sit-down meal. This can save you money on labor costs, as you won't need to hire servers to plate and serve the food. Buffets also tend to be less expensive per person than plated meals.

What Is the Cheapest Way  to Cater a Wedding?

If you're having a daytime wedding, you might want to stick to lighter fare like sandwiches and salads. You could go for a more formal sit-down meal with multiple courses for an evening wedding.

What Kind of Food Should You Serve  at a Wedding?