What does the bird flu have to do with my wedding?!?!

If you’re planning a wedding this year, you may be experiencing some difficulty nailing your venue or caterer down to a locked-in food price.

Food shortages, production issues, rising costs, and yes, … even the bird flu, have sent food prices into a tailspin. What does that mean for you? Well, while some venues will lock in pricing at the time of your contract signing, others won’t, and that can be unnerving in times like these!

I get it. Planning a wedding is stressful enough even when you DO know what everything is going to cost you.

But have no fear - I’ve got three tips for you on how to combat this curveball!

1. Opt for a buffet over a plated dinner. This will allow you to delay your food selections until closer to your wedding date because you won’t need to incorporate the meal choice on your invitations. This way you can make changes to your menu much closer to the big day should you need to omit a particular item that has skyrocketed in price!

2. Get creative! There is no rule that says you have to serve steak and chicken. I’ve had plenty of couples who have created menus out of some of their fav foods. Mac-n-cheese bars, flatbread wood-fired pizzas, taco stations…these are all yummy options that your guests just might even…dare I say it…enjoy more than another chicken piccata plate!

3. Allocate your budget effectively! Can’t live without your venue’s oh-so-delicious filet mignon, but don’t like the unexpected price tag hike? Go ahead and put it on the menu, but look for other ways to cut costs. Forgo the premium bar package at your venue and knock it down a tier, but create a signature drink! Having your wedding at a venue that allows for some DIY? Entrust an artistic friend to craft a grazing table or charcuterie display with food items purchased by you and save on those marked-up appetizer costs!

And most importantly, just remember…your friends and family are there to celebrate you and they'll love your event whether you serve lobster or fish sticks!