Catering is often one of the largest expenses of a wedding, sometimes taking up 30–40% of the total budget. At The Seclusion, we believe food and beverage should not only reflect your vision but also fit comfortably within your financial plan. That’s why our per-person pricing is all-inclusive, covering food, staffing, rentals, taxes, and fees – no surprises later.
Here’s how to budget wisely for catering at your Virginia mountain wedding.
1. Know the Average Catering Costs in Virginia
In Virginia, couples typically budget $80–$150 per guest for catering before taxes, service charges, and rentals are added. At The Seclusion, our per-person pricing is different – it is fully inclusive. Every package already covers food, staffing, rentals, taxes, and fees. This makes it easier to compare costs and ensures there are no surprise add-ons as you finalize your budget.
2. Decide on Service Style Early
Service style – a casual, elegant buffet, plated dinner, stations, or elevated BBQ – directly impacts cost. Choosing the right one ensures you’re budgeting for the guest experience you want without overspending.
3. Don’t Forget the Bar
Alcohol can add significantly to your catering budget. At The Seclusion, bar packages start at $44 per guest and include glassware, staffing, and taxes. Couples who expect lighter consumption can also consider a consumption-based package.
4. Factor in Rentals and Staffing
Glassware, staffing, production fees, catering rentals, and taxes are often not included in the advertised per-person catering price at many venues, and couples only discover them later in the fine print. At The Seclusion, these essentials are part of every package from the start – making your total cost clear and predictable.
| Typical Venue Pricing | The Seclusion Pricing | |
| Advertised Price | Base cost per guest, food only | One per-person price, all inclusive |
| Staffing | Often billed separately or added as a service charge | Included in every package |
| Bar Glassware | Sometimes listed in fine print or added to rentals | Included in every package |
| Taxes & Fees | Added later as a percentage of total | Included in published per-person pricing |
| Final Invoice | Can be significantly higher than the advertised rate | Matches the quoted package price with no hidden add-ons |
Budgeting for catering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your options and working with an experienced team, you’ll know exactly what to expect – leaving you free to enjoy every moment of your wedding!