How to Find a Wedding Venue That Allows Outside Caterers

The three types of venue catering policy

Policies aren't always fixed. Some exclusive venues will make exceptions for specialist cuisine they can't provide themselves, sometimes for a fee, and some approved lists accept new caterers who meet their requirements. It's always worth asking.

How to find venues that allow your caterer

1. Search for dry-hire venues. Barns, country estates, marquee sites, private houses and many event spaces hire the space only.
2. Ask your caterer. Caterers know which venues they've worked at, and venues they're already approved at are the easiest choice.
3. Ask the venue directly whether outside caterers are allowed, and on what terms, before you view.
4. Check approved lists. If your caterer isn't on the list, ask what it takes to be added.
5. Consider a marquee or home wedding. You set the rules, though you'll need to plan the infrastructure. See our marquee and home wedding checklist.

Fees and rules to check before you book

The venue hire price isn't always the full cost of bringing your own caterer. Ask about each of these, and get the answers in writing:

• Catering buy-out or outside caterer fee: a charge for not using the in-house team
• Corkage: a per-bottle charge if you supply your own drinks
• Kitchen hire or facilities fee: for use of the venue's kitchen
• Minimum spend on the venue's bar or other services
• Cleaning and waste removal: who clears the kitchen and takes the rubbish away
• Extra staff charges: some venues require their own staff on site alongside yours

Kitchen and practical questions

Your caterer will want to know what they're working with. Ask the venue, or bring your caterer to a viewing:

• Is there a kitchen your caterer can use, and what's in it: ovens, hobs, fridges, sinks?
• If not, is there space and power for a field or mobile kitchen?
• How far is the kitchen from the dining room, and is there a service route?
• When can the caterer access the venue to set up, and when must they be clear?
• Where can suppliers park and unload?
• Are there rules on open flames, live cooking or smoke?

Paperwork venues usually ask for

Venues that allow outside caterers commonly ask for some or all of the following, so check your caterer can provide them:

• Public liability insurance certificate
• Food hygiene registration and rating
• Risk assessment and method statement for the event
• Allergen information for the menu
• Gas or electrical safety certificates for any equipment brought in

House of Nelle holds public liability insurance and caters at venues across London and the Home Counties. See the venues we've worked at.

Getting help with the search

Checking catering rules is one of the first things a good planner does, so you're never shown a venue that won't work with your plans. Nelle's venue finding service shortlists venues that fit your guests, style, budget and caterer, and asks the questions venues don't volunteer.