A specialized tool designed to estimate expenses related to providing food and beverage services for a wedding event. This resource typically factors in elements such as guest count, menu selections, service style (buffet, plated, family-style), and potential add-ons like bar services or dessert stations to produce a projected budget. For example, inputting 150 guests, a plated dinner option with two entrees, and a four-hour open bar will yield an approximate catering expenditure.
Such a resource offers significant advantages in wedding planning. It provides transparency into potential financial obligations, allowing couples to make informed decisions about their menu choices and service levels. Early budget projections can prevent overspending and enable efficient allocation of resources to other aspects of the event. Historically, couples relied on individual vendor quotes, making it challenging to compare options efficiently. The advent of readily available estimation instruments streamlines this process.