How Much Do Event Caterers Cost?
How Much Do Event Caterers Cost? A Transparent Guide by The Wild Oven
Planning an event and wondering how much to budget for catering? Whether it’s a Cotswold wedding, a corporate gathering in Warwickshire, or an outdoor celebration under canvas, knowing what to expect helps ensure everything runs smoothly. At The Wild Oven, we specialise in wood-fired event catering that combines flavour, theatre, and stress-free service.
Average Event Catering Costs in the UK
Event catering costs can vary depending on your event size, location, format, and menu choice. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Weddings: £70–£110 per guest (three-course fire-cooked feast)
- Corporate events: £30–£75 per guest (grazing tables, bowl food, or sharing platters)
- Private parties: £45–£90 per guest (BBQs, street food style setups)
“We believe great food should never feel like a surprise surcharge. Our quotes are always transparent, with no hidden costs.”
These prices include VAT – please please watch out for caterers, or any supplier, quoting you ex VAT to make themselves look cheaper…
Why Fire-Cooked Catering Adds Value
Fire-cooked catering brings more than just taste, it creates a centrepiece for your event. Our vintage Land Rovers and trailers double as open-air kitchens, letting guests see the magic unfold.
Benefits of wood-fired catering:
- Unique and immersive guest experience
- Faster service from high-heat ovens
- Perfect for tipi weddings and outdoor venues
- Striking food presentation ideal for photos
“The Wild Oven created an experience as memorable as the food itself.” – A & L, Mickleton Hills Farm
Local Sourcing, Lower Impact
We believe in sustainable food with a story. Our ingredients are sourced from:
- Todenham Manor Farm for quality meats
- The Cotswold Cheese Company and MOR Bakery in the Cotswolds
- Ethical producers across Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire
This supports local farms while lowering food miles, something many couples and planners increasingly value.
What’s Included in Our Catering Packages?
Every quote includes the essentials:
- Fire-cooked setup with vintage vehicles
- Fully trained, uniformed staff
- Tableware (plates and cutlery)
- Travel
Optional Add-Ons:
- Signature grazing tables
- Late-night bites (think hot wood-fired pizza, delicious beef burgers, toasted marshmallows)
- Puddings or celebration cakes
- Drinks service or bar hire
How to Get an Accurate Quote
To give you an exact figure for your event catering, we’ll need a few simple details:
- Event date & location (e.g. Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire)
- Guest numbers
- Type of event (e.g. outdoor wedding, festival-style celebration, product launch)
Contact us now for a no-obligation quote or explore our wedding catering and event catering services.
Real Example: Cotswolds Wedding
- Venue: Mickleton Hills Farm
- Guests: 120
- Menu: Canapés, wood-fired starters, fire-cooked mains, desserts
- Cost per guest: £95
- Included: All equipment, 8 staff, travel, custom menu design
“They worked seamlessly with our wedding planner, and guests are still raving about the food months later.”
