July 11, 2025

Budget‑Savvy Wedding Catering: How to WOW Without Overspending 💍

Introduction:

Are you newly engaged and planning your dream wedding in Columbus? Hudson’s Edge Catering & Events understands how important it is to create an unforgettable celebration without breaking the bank. As one of the more affordable wedding caterers in Columbus, we offer transparent, a la carte menus and farm‑to‑table sourcing from local farms—helping you wow your guests and stay on budget.

Brookmade Photography

Why Budget Doesn’t Mean Bland

1. Transparent, a la carte pricing

Instead of overpriced fixed packages, we give you the freedom to choose exactly what goes on your plate. Want custom hors d’oeuvres, a signature mocktail bar, or a late-night-snack station? You pick—and you pay for only what you love.

2. Farm‑to‑table savings

By sourcing directly from local Ohio farms, we cut out distributor markups. That means better-quality ingredients that are fresh—and more affordable—while supporting our community.

3. Flexible service levels

Whether it’s heavy appetizers, buffet, plated or family style service, our range of service levels ensures you get the experience you imagine at the price you’re comfortable with.

Deborah Grace Photography

5 Proven Money‑Saving Tips That Still Deliver “Wow!”

1. Prioritize key menu moments

Focus budget where it matters most—welcome appetizers, dinner entrée, dessert display—then trim extras like late-night snacks or elaborate drinks if needed.

2. Choose seasonal and local ingredients

Spring asparagus, summer heirloom tomatoes, or fall butternut squash—seasonal produce tastes better and costs less. Our farm‑to‑table philosophy means we pass savings directly to you.

3. Don’t Assume Buffets Are Always Cheaper

Many couples are surprised to learn that buffet and plated dinners are often comparable in cost. While buffets typically require fewer servers, they also involve preparing enough food to feed the entire guest list with ample variety—so food quantity and cost can rise. On the other hand, plated dinners require more staff for efficient service, but portions are more controlled and refined, which can balance out the price. It’s all about the style of service that best fits your venue, timeline, and guest experience.

Pro Tip: Family style dinner service is the most expensive option because it combines the need for additional staff + serving platters and utensils for each table but also the increased food quantity to feed the entire group.

4. A la carte picks for personalization

Custom-curate your menu with our detailed list of add-ons—skipping the ones that don’t fit your vision or budget but splurging on those that do.

5. Simplify Rentals by Letting Your Caterer Help

Hudson’s Edge offers the essential catering basics, including your choice of plastic or china tableware, to help keep your planning stress-free. While you’re always welcome to source rentals on your own, many couples find it easier—and often more cost-effective—to let us handle these details.

As catering experts, we know exactly what’s needed and how much based on your guest count, service style, and venue layout. We can also recommend budget-friendly rental partners or venues that include items like tables, chairs, linens, and glassware to help you stay within budget and avoid rental overages or last-minute surprises.

Plus One Photography with Amanda

Sample “WOW‑Worthy” Menu Under $50 per Guest

Approximate Meal Cost: $40-$50 per person

Before applicable service fees.

Erica Kay Photography

Why Columbus Couples Choose Us

Michelle Joy Photo

What Goes Into a Columbus Wedding Catering Estimate?

When you're comparing wedding caterers in Columbus, it’s important to understand what’s actually included in the estimate—because not all caterers pricing, inclusions and price quotes look the same.

At Hudson’s Edge Catering & Events, we believe in full transparency. Every estimate we create outlines all elements of your catering service so you know exactly what to expect:

And because we offer an a la carte menu, you can customize everything to meet both your event style and your budget.

Check out these helpful links:

📥 Download our Pricing & Services Guide


📞 Contact us for a Custom Estimate

Real Couples, Real Savings

Mary (May '25):
“We opted for a plated meal to ensure a smooth and timely dinner service... The presentation of the food was impressive, and both the chicken and beef dishes we selected were delicious. The flavors were well-balanced, and our guests enjoyed their meals... They were very accommodating with any changes we needed to make and maintained transparency regarding costs throughout the planning process. Hudson's Edge Catering contributed positively to our wedding experience, and we would recommend them to others looking for quality catering services.”

Samantha (March ’24):
“We could not speak more highly of Hudson's Edge. We are so incredibly thankful for Christyn and her team. First and foremost: they are AFFORDABLE. There were literally no caterers comparable to the quality and price Hudson's Edge had to offer. They were so flexible and tailored their services to work for us and our vision for the day. Christyn was quick to respond and kind in her responses. I felt so confident and comfortable knowing that she would be taking care of us on our wedding day. There were no complications and the food was delicious! Order the mini-fig appetizers! We love Hudson's Edge! Book with them! I'm so serious!”

Deborah Grace Photography

Your Action Plan for Budget‑Friendly Catering

  1. Schedule a tasting appointment
    Talk through your vision, sample local ingredients, and get real-time cost estimates.
  2. Draft a custom‑style menu
    Decide on the service style and which courses matter most to you—and let us build a precise quote.
  3. Explore savings options
    Ask about seasonal pricing or how to trim costs through lighter service options.
  4. Partner for a great guest experience
    Your engagement is about love and celebration—let us help you focus on both without overspending.

Nicole Dixon Photographic

Ready to WOW?

Contact Hudson’s Edge Catering & Events to:

Let’s create a wedding experience that wows your guests—and your budget.

Queen Annes Lace Photo

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Curbside Market

In support of our local community, Hudson’s Edge proudly offers a unique and satisfying dining experience in the comfort of your home with a carry-out menu of take & bake and fresh items that we open up for the Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter holidays.

CURBSITE MARKET

Wedding Venues

WEDDING VENUES