Capital Pizza & Doner Gyro Shawarma
March 20, 2026

The Wedding Catering Checklist: 90 Days to Your Big Day

Wedding catering runs on a 90-day timeline. Miss the milestones and you'll be paying rush fees—or worse, cutting your menu.

90 days out

Signed contract, tasting scheduled, initial headcount and dietary survey sent to guests.

60 days out

Menu finalized, rental order (linens, glassware, chafers) placed, service style confirmed (buffet, stations, or plated).

30 days out

Final headcount, dietary breakdown, timeline reviewed with caterer, staffing confirmed.

Day of

Point of contact on-site, timeline shared with venue and caterer, leftover plan confirmed.

Frequently asked questions

When should I book wedding catering?+

Ideally 6–12 months out for peak season (May–October). Off-season weddings can book 3–4 months out.

Ready to book your catering?

Serving Arlington VA, Washington DC, and the greater DMV. Same-week quotes for 15–500+ guests.