Tasty Wisconsin Wedding Eats – Meet Some Local Caterers!

What’s one thing you always remember from any wedding you’ve been too other than the sweet “I Do’s”,
the way your feet hurt the next day from dancing all night, the bride’s beautiful dress…but the food OF COURSE!!
These days it doesn’t have to be your standard steak or chicken, although a choice you can never go wrong with,
it can be anything your taste buds dream of.Read on to get to know some local Wisconsin caterers
who are sure to make your mouth water!

All Occasions Catering / Bubb’s BBQ

Meet Mark….

How did you get into the catering industry?

From my first job as a dishwasher, then cook and then food sales, my love has always been in  food service.  So, adding in making client’s happy was an easy choice leading me to the catering industry.

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

What I love about catering is that every event and client that we work with, is different from the last. Meaning that one day we could be catering someone’s first year anniversary for 2 people and the next day we could be catering a fairy tale wedding for 400 people. Everyone has their own vision of what they are looking for and that is fun helping them accomplish that.

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering option?

I would suggest to couples that planning a year to a year and a half out would enable them to find the caterer they want to be part of their special day. With all the planning that takes place for that special day, the more time you have the better.

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options?

I believe the very first thing couples need to consider is an accurate budget for the catering portion of the reception (which should include china / flatware selections / linen selections / hors d’oeuvres selections).  Aim high on your budget to begin with and you can adjust as needed (from adjusting guest count as well as catering options) to reach your target.  The planning process following the initial quote will involve changing things many times as priorities begin to become clear, so couples should expect that the initial quote is just a starting point.

Are there any unique trends you see for 2020 and coming for 2021 for weddings?

I’ve been seeing that a lot of the more “quirky / fun” hors d’oeuvres / late-night options have been starting to change to more traditional options.  Donut Stations / Popcorn Stations / S’mores Bars are not selling as readily in 2020 / 2021 as much as classics like Bacon Wrapped Water chestnuts, Bourbon Glazed Meatballs, Vegetable / Fruit / Cheese boards are.  I think couples are reacting to the COVID-19 uncertainty by down-sizing and passing on “upgrades” in favor of more traditional options.  In this industry we have seen this in 2008, when the “prettier” things were passed on in favor of “sensible” spending.  Not necessarily due to stressed financials, but also due to appearance of fiscal responsibility.

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings?

Be sure to select items you are on the fence about.  Tasting a fruit salad, garden salad, or cheese board isn’t terribly productive.  Industry secret: from caterer to caterer couples will find that there really isn’t much of a difference between us regarding how we prepare those classics.  If a couple knows they want a beef and a chicken option, try a couple of beef options and a couple of chicken options to find which presentation you enjoy best (and keep your guest list in mind by picking items that you feel will be best received by your audience).

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

I think that many couples don’t realize that many caterers can do much more for them than just supply food.  This doesn’t apply to every caterer, but several of us are, truly, full-service planning caterers.  We can arrange for tenting/tables/chairs/ice carvings/bar services.  Although we do charge a nominal fee for coordinating those services, couples will find that not having to juggle all of those details is well worth paying a little extra.  If what you are planning does require securing those extras, be sure to ask your prospective caterer questions that will assure you that they are experienced in coordinating those options.  A lot of us have amazing relationships with vendors that client’s can take advantage of to produce stress-free amazing receptions!

Tell us…what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve?

My favorite meal hands down would be fresh carved beef brisket out of the smoker served with four cheese mac and cheese and roasted root vegetables. Of course, there would be peach cobbler with melted vanilla bean ice cream for dessert!

Saz’s Catering & Special Events

Meet Jaime….

How did you get into the catering industry?

I was working in radio advertising and got Joey Buona’s restaurant in Milwaukee to advertise with me. They had never done it before so were apprehensive but moved forward anyways.  About a month later, their Director of Operations asked me to meet him for coffee and offered me the Catering Sales Manager Job – in his words “I’d like you to come work for Uncle Joe”.  😊 The rest is history and spent 7 years working there growing their banquets, developed their catering division as well as a summer picnic division.

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

I love that no day is the same, thinking outside of the box to help make creative and unique memories for our clients and be the expert for them, making sure no detail is missed.

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering options?

I would say if it’s a summer/seasonal Wedding, the sooner the better, especially to have time for food tastings, pre and post contract meetings and more.

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options?

Think about what you love when you dine out or cook at home and find a way to incorporate your favorites into the meal!  Great way to personalize your wedding meal…  I think too many get wrapped up in what they ‘should’ do instead of making it a day that is truly about them.

Are there any unique trends you see for 2020 and coming for 2021 for weddings?

I recently attended Catersource in Vegas and the trends seemed to be all about bringing the outdoor in, mirrors, glass, patterned china and linens, neon…

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings?

Caterers that are open to getting creative with their menus for your day, that will personalize the tasting for you and even add to what you ask to try to show their true interest in winning your business…

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

Some caterers can provide more than food/beverage!  Ask them about their vendor partnerships, venue partnerships, rental options, and ask them for referrals! We know a lot of people.  😊

Tell us…..what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve!?

Manhattan Steak Au Poivre* – marinated with cognac infused green peppercorn ivory sauce; accompanied by parmesan roasted red bliss potatoes

Tuscan Hall Catering

Meet Amy….

How did you get into the catering industry?

I started as the Event Specialist at Tuscan Hall Banquet Center six months after opening. We quickly became a very successful wedding and event venue, with excellent food selections. Clients were begging for our delicious cuisine offsite, and thus we entered into the Catering Business, and added Tuscan Hall Catering to our umbrella. 7 Years later, I am the Director of Events and Catering. Our Catering division has more than quadrupled in size over the last 3 years. We are now on the preferred list at dozens of venues throughout SE Wisconsin, and still growing. I have learned much from many peers and colleagues along the way, having to learn the catering business from scratch myself. There are so many wonderful catering companies, and the comradery has and is amazing. I am so thankful for everyone that has been so supportive along this journey.

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

Weddings are personal. Food is personal. Creating a menu together with our couples is so personal. The style, time of year, venue, so many factors can dictate food choices, and it’s very detailed with service styles as well. I love being a part of that process with my couples !

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering options?

It is never too soon! We are a smaller catering company and are booking out 18-24 months! With peak season dates moving fast, I suggest after you secure your venue, secure your in demand caterer!

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options? 

Think of your theme, foods that you like, and of course the time of year! Type of venue also can help dictate your menu whether its rustic/casual or upscale /classic surf and turf.

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings?

Variety of food options on the menu is important.  Enjoy the experience, write down notes to remember the things you loved most at your tasting !Some people come back a year later and can’t remember that favorite chicken dish they fell in love with ! I try to keep notes for them, but it’s great for them to remember and savor those flavors!

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

The Caterer is not the venue, and yet we serve appetizers, meal, desserts and sometimes a late-night menu. Ask questions from your venue on responsibilities and have good communication with your caterer on those tasks as well. There is a lot of time and energy that goes into moving the meal from one location to the other. Catering staff work very hard , long hours to bring your delicious cuisine to your venue.  Work together and keep your caterer in the loop of all details with  your venue, and the event will run extra smooth!

Tell us…..what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve!?

We have so many to choose from, but for appetizers our Chicken Souvlaki with homemade Tzatziki sauce is our signature!  We are also known for our amazing , delicious 24-hour Braised Beef Short Ribs with Burgundy Sauce.

Chef Jack’s Catering

Meet Eric….

How did you get into the catering industry?

I like to joke that since this is a family business, I didn’t have a choice 😊. In all seriousness, being that Chef Jack’s is a family business, it has given me the unique opportunity over the years to learn about every aspect of how an event is executed, not just the food. Having this understanding has helped me develop a passion for what I do.

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

Each week is a little different and that keeps it exciting. Being a part of a family’s special occasion and providing an unforgettable experience is truly rewarding. 33 years and thousands of weddings later, the same exuberance exists. We also get the added bonus of working with our “extended family “each week and that makes the experience of joining families together through a one of kind dinner even more special. We’ve been fortunate to be in business for a period of time where we have provided our services for the bride and groom many years ago and are now given the opportunity to do it again for their daughter or son.

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering options?

For the prime months (May-Oct), I would recommend 12-24 months prior to the wedding. This gives you time to research your options and make sure dates line up.This would also help alleviate the stress of planning. Planning your wedding should be an exciting, memorable time… not looked back at with angst.

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options?

When starting, one of the first things we like to do is narrow down the style of dinner the couple is envisioning. We have a variety of menu options, making this a smooth process. From interactive food stations that are sure to wow each guest with their presentation and options, to our elegant plated dinners that create that classic, elegant wedding feel. We are confident we can work with you to tie your vision together through all aspects-including the dinner.

Are there any unique trends you see for 2020 and coming for 2021 weddings?

Classic plated meals are on the up trend. We are starting to see couples wanting a more full service, intimate and elegant feel to the dinner aspect of the evening.

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings?

Our complimentary tastings are where we begin the planning of not only the menu, but also start laying out the timing. Food is very important, but just as important is the confidence the customer has in our ability to execute the event. We hope to convey that at our meeting. This is a great time for couples to ask questions and for us to begin to build a relationship to help us better understand their vision. When we have that understanding, and couples feel confident in that as well, it can make a world of a difference in executing every detail, which for us is the best part.

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

Overall experience and the team behind the catering company is so important. We understand the magnitude of this lifetime event and how difficult it can be deciding between all the options. Reading reviews and asking vendor/venue suggestions go a long way in narrowing down the search for the perfect caterer. Teamwork is key and by building a positive relationship with the various vendors and venues involved in your once in a lifetime event, we are able to execute your vision perfectly.

Tell us…what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve!?

There really are so many! For appetizers I love our lemon butter shrimp scampi. My favorite entrée is our Beef Tenderloin& Fontina Chicken combination entrée. For dessert I’m a big fan of wedding cheesecakes from some of the local bakeries. Chef Jack’s does offer limited desserts, with our Baked Orange Alaska being the favorite. Ice cream in an orange and lit on fire creates a lasting memory.

Catering by Davian’s

Meet Amy….

How did you get into the catering industry? 

I actually started in the full-service restaurant business 17 years ago and worked my way up to being a General Manager for a restaurant in Minneapolis.  I have always enjoyed planning and events and loved the thought of being able to” attend a party everyday” for work.  I am originally from the Milwaukee area and my husband and I decided it was time to return back to the land of the Packers and cheeseheads.  I saw Davians was looking for a Director of Events & Operations and knew immediately that this was a right fit for me.  I have been with Davians the last two years and love every minute of it.

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

I love being able to work with my event managers and help facilitate creating our couples dream weddings and our events come to life. It’s very rewarding seeing the clients’ faces on the day of their events and how thankful and joyful they are in their celebrations.

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering options?

Every couple is different in regards to planning. We always recommend no less than 8 months prior to your event. That will give you time to have a tasting, work with the caterer and really make sure they are the right fit for you. I am a planner so for our wedding I wanted to make sure I had plenty of time to just relax and take it all in, so we had everything planned a year in advance.

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options?

Don’t rush into picking a venue or your food choices until you are absolutely certain.  Do your research, take tours, maybe even a second tour.  Ideally you only get married once and you really want to make sure that you have chosen a place that not only represents you as a couple but ultimately checks the box of your dream wedding vision.  Make sure you taste the food choices that you are thinking about as well by attending a tasting, that is a very important piece to planning your big day as well.  Don’t be afraid to ask your venue/caterer for other options or modifications if you like one of the options but not everything on the entree.  It’s your big day so make sure it’s exactly how you want it.

Are there any unique trends you see for 2020 and coming for 2021 for weddings?

We have been seeing a lot of larger wedding parties, upwards of 14 plus bridesmaids and grooms men and rose gold for color choices. We have also been seeing quite a bit of DIY centerpieces instead of the typical floral displays

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings?

Just make sure that what you decide not only is something you love but also that your guests will enjoy as well. Your reception not only is to celebrate your big day but to also thank your guests for joining in this celebration so you want to make sure you choose items that everyone will enjoy.  Food choices and quality sticks in people’s memories so make sure you pick a choice that not only is memorable but people will rave about for years to come!

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

I do not have anything specific for this answer since we mostly deal with on premise orders since we do the venue and the catering for the client. 🙂

Tell us…..what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve!?

My favorite dish we serve is the Pecan Chicken (Hand-breaded and pan-fried chicken breasts topped with our pecan butter sauce).  I love pairing our sautéed carrots and leeks and Rosemary Parmesan Petite Potatoes with this chicken dish. My mouth is already watering!

Antigua Catering

Meet Citlali….

How did you get into the catering industry?

I grew up on a family of restauranteurs always working in a restaurant or at catering.  As time went by, I decided to branch out with my husband and we opened up Antigua Restaurant in 2006.  I always enjoyed working on special events and catering, so we wanted to make sure to build that side of the business alongside the restaurant.

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

Caterings are a lot of fun, even when working long hours – times flyers when you are having fun.  I love doing caterings because they give you the opportunity to show your creativity not only with food, but also for decor.  I really enjoy working with couples to help them create the perfect menu and atmosphere for their wedding.  I find weddings to be magical, and I still cry at most of them.  The anticipation of creating the perfect reception for the couple and their families is thrilling.  There is nothing better than seeing a smile on people’s faces after enjoying their meal.  It sets the tone for the rest of the night.

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering options?

As soon as you secure your venue, you should start looking at your catering options.  I have seen couples wait until just a few months before their wedding, and end up being disappointed because their cater of choice is no longer available for their special day.

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options?

I would tell them to mainly focus on what they like and not to bee to concern about pleasing others.  Their cater should be helping them to accommodate those guests with special needs and ease the process.  I would also recommend to them to allow enough money on their budget for food. It is just as important as other components of the wedding, as I mentioned before – the meal sets the tone for the night.  Lastly, I always recommend to be mindful of their guests and offer a nice spread of appetizers during the reception, or at least a small snack. Weddings can be a long day for their guests too, and by the time they arrived at the reception, they are starving.

Are there any unique trends you see for 2020 and coming for 2021 for weddings?

For 2020 the biggest trend was elevated versions of worldwide street foo or food trucks, and food reflecting the heritage of the couples.  I also had more requests than I expected for family-style service.

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings?

They should look for food that makes them happy after their tasting. They should also feel comfortable with their catering consultant or catering manager.  That will be their go-to person, and the one executing their vision.

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

There is a lot happening behind the scenes to make their day special and unique.  There is a lot of preparation from the chef, to the catering manager, the loader, warehouse support, driver, etc.  The cater does more than just cooking the food. With or without a wedding planner, the cater works with most vendors and the venues to ensure that everything goes as planned.

Tell us…..what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve!?

For a family-style meal, there is nothing better than a Spanish themed wedding with a Seafood Paella.  If it’s a plated meal, I absolutely love our boneless beef short rib with manchego cheese sauce and cauliflower mashed potatoes.

Chef Michael Feker

Meet Michael….

How did you get into the catering industry?

After becoming confident about creating good food , understanding, timing and the chemistry of ingredients I felt it was time to not only have a table at my restaurant for you to taste my love for food, but also being  a part of the most important day of all of those that love and appreciate my food.

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

That I give the peace of mind to the bride and the groom as to their flavors of that important gathering and also to have the bride and groom being proud of their decisions.

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering options? 

I feel that food plays  a huge part in any gathering and to find a caterer that truly cares is difficult so as soon as possible. Choose the venue and then contact me to go over to see the venues serving area offerings and I will create a menu within your requested budget for your review.

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options? 

Working with a Chef Driven caterer not a faceless food provider. You see a good chef creates an experience for you, a cook just feeds you.

Are there any unique trends you see for 2020 and coming for 2021 for weddings?

For me & food wise the biggest trend has been the request for comfort foods.

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings? 

Having a chef explain the food and what steps will he take to provide fresh, well-seasoned and texture driven food at the event.

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

Find out who is cooking your food?

Tell us…..what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve!? 

I have a few Slow cooked Mexican beef short ribs , Shredded hormone free pork shoulder barbecue and our   famous homemade biscuits.

Black Shoe Catering

Meet Elly….

How did you get into the catering industry?

I wish I had a timeframe in which I got into the catering industry but I truly was born into it. My dad was a chef and my mother a front of house manager – I helped at their various events starting at a very young age and I haven’t stopped since!

What do you love about working in the catering industry and being a special part of weddings?

I love seeing an event from the beginning planning all the way to clean up. I’ve always been a people pleaser and enjoy seeing my clients faces light up on their big days. Making sure every little detail is accounted for is something I strive on.

How long before a wedding date would you suggest looking into catering options?

I usually suggest 12-18 months to start planning for your wedding – that way every question and every detail can be accounted for. Although I’ve definitely planned a few smaller weddings in 3 or so months too!

What is a tip you have for couples who are starting the process of planning their wedding and trying to decide on meal options?

Most brides and grooms tend to try to plan their meal around everyone else – where I do want your guests to enjoy themselves, I really want the food to showcase what the bride and groom enjoy and love.

Any special things couples should look for when doing their tastings?

When a couple is doing their tasting I urge them to ask questions not only about the food or the company but about the caterer as well. You want to make sure your personalities mesh well and that you have confidence that everything will be perfect for your big day.

Is there anything you wish couples knew about hiring a caterer that doesn’t seem to get shared?

When looking for a caterer you’re obviously going to go to a certain company for the food – I want to make sure my couples know that aside from the food I am there for them for whatever they need and I’m not sure every caterer does that. I get text messages from brides late at night asking questions and I’m sure to answer them right away to make sure they are at ease. Whether they need my opinion on food, DJ companies or linen folds, I’m there for them.

Tell us….what is your favorite meal or dish that you serve!?

My favorite meal with Maxie’s would start with some Peel and Eat Shrimp with freshly grated horseradish and cocktail sauce. Then we’d move on to our refreshing Supper Club Salad with raspberry vinaigrette, followed by White Cheddar Mac and cheese and Chicken Fried Chicken. If I’m lucky I’ll finish with a slice of cake from our in-house bakery or a piece of Key Lime Pie. I’m not saying it’s a healthy meal but it’s a damn good one.

Cornerstone Catering

When it comes to catering your wedding or event, The Cornerstone Pubs experienced, award-winning chef can handle anything you can throw his way. From 20 to 200, we’ve got you covered with the most excellent food around. The variety we offer can accommodate any taste bud! From ribs to italian food to burgers or chicken and all the way to shrimp! And sides that will keep you wanting more with a fresh fruit platter, deli meat & cheese platters & even complete sandwich and taco bars. Check out our catering menus or stop on in!

Geneva Lakes Catering

INVITE US TO YOUR TABLE

When you welcome Geneva Lakes Catering to the party, your wedding only gets better. Truly thrilled to be part of each and every celebration, we walk alongside you during the planning process and ahead of you to keep even the smallest details on track. When your wedding day arrives, you can relish in each moment knowing that your guests are dining in culinary heaven.

WE’RE ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS 

From rustic barn weddings to vintage boat parties, we capture the style and flavor of your wedding. We have a remarkable flair for matching a menu to a venue — as many happy couples and their guests will attest.

We assign you a knowledgeable Event Coordinator to meld our catering seamlessly into your celebration and incorporate your ideas into an inspired menu.

WE CALL WISCONSIN HOME

At Geneva Lakes Catering, we value local ingredients — bringing the best of the Midwest to your table — and making each dish from scratch with precision and passion.

Know that each menu can be further customized to meet dietary and budgetary requirements. Our desire is to work in step with you and your wedding plans to execute a day you’ve always fantasized of.