How much should you budget for wedding catering in London? It’s one of the first questions every couple asks – and one of the hardest to answer without knowing the specifics of your day. But we believe in transparency, so this guide gives you honest, real-world pricing for every wedding catering format in London.
For a London wedding in 2026, expect to budget £50–£120 per head for catering, depending on format and service level. For a 100-guest wedding, total catering costs typically range from £8,000 to £15,000 including food, service, and equipment – but excluding drinks.
Canapés are typically served during the drinks reception between ceremony and dinner. Budget for 6–8 pieces per person for a reception, or 10–14 pieces if canapés are the main food offering (cocktail-style wedding). Professional waiting staff are included.
Buffets offer variety and a relaxed atmosphere. Pricing depends on the number of dishes, whether hot food is included, and the quality of ingredients. A premium buffet with carved meats, seafood, and multiple hot options sits at the higher end.
The most popular format for London weddings. A three-course plated meal served by professional waiting staff. Pricing varies based on menu complexity – a simple seasonal menu costs less than a five-course tasting menu with premium ingredients.
Large sharing platters placed on each table. This creates a warm, communal atmosphere and typically costs slightly less than individual plated service because it requires fewer staff.
A second food service later in the evening – typically informal options like stone-baked pizzas, fish and chip cones, bacon rolls, or a dessert station. Popular for keeping energy levels up as the dancing continues.
A reputable wedding caterer’s per-head price should include:
To give you a real-world picture, here’s what a typical 100-guest London wedding catering budget might look like in 2026:
| Canapé reception (8 pieces pp) | £2,800 | (£28/head) |
| Three-course sit-down dinner | £6,500 | (£65/head) |
| Evening food (pizza station) | £1,500 | (£15/head) |
| Wine with dinner (half bottle pp) | £1,400 | (£14/head) |
| Toast champagne | £500 | (£5/head) |
| Equipment hire | £1,200 | |
| Children’s meals (10 kids at 60%) | £390 | |
| Supplier meals (5 at £12) | £60 | |
| TOTAL (ex VAT) | £14,350 |
This example represents a mid-to-upper range London wedding with quality food and full service. Costs can be reduced by choosing a buffet format (saving £1,500–£2,000), simplifying the canapé selection, or opting for house wines rather than premium selections.
At the other end, luxury weddings with tasting menus, premium ingredients, and extensive bar service can reach £120+ per head for food alone, taking the total well above £20,000.
The only way to get a precise figure for your wedding is to speak directly with your caterer. Every wedding is unique – the venue, season, menu preferences, service style, and guest list all affect pricing. A detailed conversation upfront prevents budget surprises later.
When requesting quotes, provide: your wedding date and venue, approximate guest numbers (adults and children separately), preferred format (buffet, plated, family-style), any dietary requirements, whether you need bar service, and your approximate budget range. The more information you share, the more accurately your caterer can quote.
Every wedding is unique, and so is every quote. At Fresh N Funky, we provide detailed, transparent proposals that break down every element – so you know exactly what you’re paying for with no hidden surprises.
Is a tasting included in the price? Most established wedding caterers include one complimentary tasting for the couple as part of the booking. Additional tastings or larger tasting events for family members may incur a small charge.
Do we pay a deposit? Typically yes – most London wedding caterers require a 25–50% deposit to secure your date, with the balance due 2–4 weeks before the wedding. Confirm the payment schedule before signing any contract.
What if our guest numbers change? A reputable caterer will allow adjustments up to a final deadline (usually 7–14 days before the wedding). Increases are usually accommodated; decreases below the contracted minimum may still be charged at the original rate. Clarify this in your contract.
Are gratuities expected? Service charges are sometimes included in the catering quote, sometimes not. Ask explicitly. If not included and you’re happy with the service, 10–15% is customary for wedding catering staff in London.
Ready to discuss your wedding catering budget? Call 03450 942 922 for a free, no-obligation consultation, or request a quote online.
