How to Plan Indian Wedding Catering on a Budget

How to Plan Indian Wedding Catering on a Budget

Indian weddings are famously generous with food — but that doesn't mean they have to break the bank. With smart planning and the right caterer, you can serve an unforgettable Indian wedding feast without overspending. Here's how.

Set Your Per-Head Budget First

The most important number in wedding catering is your per-head budget. In South West London, Indian wedding catering typically ranges from £15–£45 per person. Here's what each level gets you:

• £15–£18/head — Essential buffet. 3 starters, 3 mains, rice, naan. Great for 150+ guest weddings where volume matters.
• £22–£28/head — Classic buffet. 4 starters, 4 mains, sides, dessert. The sweet spot for most weddings.
• £35–£45/head — Premium. 5+ starters, 5+ mains, premium dishes (king prawns, lamb chops), desserts, speciality dish counters.

Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

1. Choose buffet over plated — buffet service is typically 20–30% cheaper than plated and allows guests to choose what they enjoy
2. Maximise chicken and vegetarian dishes — lamb and prawn dishes cost more per head. A smart mix of chicken and veg mains reduces cost while keeping variety.
3. Book off-peak — Saturday evenings in June–August are peak pricing. Friday evenings, Sundays, and winter dates often offer better rates.
4. Combine events — booking mehndi, nikah, and walimah catering with the same caterer often unlocks multi-event discounts.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Caterer

• What's included in the per-head price? (Delivery, setup, crockery, staff?)
• Is the food halal certified? Which certification body?
• Can you accommodate allergies? Do you provide allergen documentation?
• Do you offer a tasting session?
• What's the cancellation policy?

Jaflong's Wedding Catering

Jaflong Tandoori Catering offers Indian wedding catering from £15 per head across Richmond, Twickenham, Kingston, and South West London. All food is halal-sourced, we hold a Food Hygiene Rating of 5, and tastings can be arranged on request. Get your free wedding catering quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas do you cover?

Jaflong Catering is based in Richmond (TW10) and covers Richmond upon Thames, Kingston upon Thames, Twickenham, Teddington, Surbiton, Hampton, New Malden, Sheen and Wimbledon. Delivery is free within 10 miles; a small fee applies between 10 and 20 miles.

How much does catering cost per person?

Our packages start from £15 per head (Essential buffet), £22 per head (Classic) and £35 per head (Premium multi-course). Final pricing depends on guest count, menu choices and service style — request your bespoke catering quote for an exact figure.

Is your catering halal?

Yes. All our meat is sourced from trusted suppliers providing halal-certified products, and we can cater fully halal events including Nikah, Mehndi, Walimah, Eid and Aqiqah occasions. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are clearly marked on the explore our full Indian & Bangladeshi catering menu.

How far in advance should I book?

For weddings and events over 100 guests we recommend booking 6–12 weeks ahead. For smaller parties 2–3 weeks is usually enough, and we regularly accept last-minute bookings within 48 hours where capacity allows.

Do you offer tastings?

Yes — tastings are available by appointment for weddings and larger events. Ask about a tasting when you send us your event details for a personalised catering quote and we'll arrange a convenient slot at our Richmond kitchen.