Matthew and I met with our caterer today and we love them! Not only did they give us fair prices but we had a really fun meeting, too! I've been thinking of what to write about my meeting that may help or be of interest to other brides-to-be.

First, be prepared for a little sticker shock because we're not only talking about food but servers, chefs, china, etc. We are also getting a bartender, portable bar and those other things you forget about (glasses, ice, lemons, limes, mixers, cocktail napkins) through them and buying our own alcohol.

Do you have a friend in the alcohol business (that's probably not their title)? My lovely sister happens to be a bartender at a nice bar and can get us alcohol at wholesale prices!

When receiving quotes, ask for a variety - don't just assume that a plated dinner will be out of your budget. I was really hoping for a plated meal and interesting hors d'oeuvres and they made it work for us!

Hope this helps!