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In France, the food isn’t just dinner. It’s an experience.
It’s 3-4 hours of wine, toasts, courses, and conversation.

And honestly? It’s what your guests will talk about the next day.

But choosing a caterer in France is different than back home. The menus, the service style, the wine pairings… it’s all unique.

As a wedding planner in France, I help couples navigate tastings, contracts, and all the “French rules” so your dinner feels like this: elegant, delicious, and stress-free.

Here are the 5 questions you need to ask before booking your caterer.

1. Is the Caterer Exclusive to the Venue or Can We Bring Our Own?
This is rule #1 in France. Some chateaux and venues have an exclusive caterer. Others give you a list of 3-4 approved ones. A few let you bring anyone.

Why it matters: Your venue contract will tell you. But we always confirm it before you fall in love with a menu.

Planner tip: Exclusive doesn’t mean bad. Some of the best food in France comes from venue chefs who know the kitchen inside out.

2. What Style of Service Do You Want? Plated vs. Family Style
This photo shows “plated service”. Each guest gets their own course, served at the same time.

Other options in France:
– Family style: Large platters on the table
– Buffet: Less common for elegant weddings
– Food stations: Great for cocktail hour

Planner tip: For a wedding in France, plated is king. It feels luxurious, keeps timing on track, and looks amazing in photos like this.

3. Can the Menu Be Customized + Do They Do Tastings?
Most French caterers will work with you to build the menu. But ask:

– Can we swap dishes?
– Do you accommodate dietary needs: vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies?
– When is the tasting and is it included?

This dish has salmon + microgreens + colorful dots. That’s a modern French caterer who’s willing to design with you.

Planner tip: Book your tasting 3-4 months before the wedding. And bring a notebook. You’ll taste 5-6 courses.

4. What’s Included in the Price?
The quote you get is rarely the final price. Ask:

– Staff, service charge, VAT included?
– Glassware, plates, cutlery included or rental?
– Bread, water, coffee included?
– Cake cutting fee?
– Cleanup included?

Planner tip: In France, VAT is 20% and service is often 12-15%. Always ask for “TTC” = all taxes included.

5. Who Handles the Wine?
This is France. Wine is non-negotiable.

Ask your caterer:
– Can we bring our own wine and just pay corkage?
– Do you offer wine pairing with each course?
– Is champagne for the toast included?

In this photo, that white wine glass is paired perfectly with the salmon. That’s a caterer who thinks about pairing.

How to Design a Menu That Feels French + Feels Like You
Use this formula I give all my couples:

1. Starters: Something light + seasonal. Think scallops, goat cheese, or soup

2. Main: Fish or meat. Salmon, duck, or beef are classics in France

3. Cheese course: Yes, this is a thing in France and guests LOVE it

4. Dessert: The wedding cake + maybe a dessert buffet

And always end with coffee + petit fours.

How de France Events Helps
Menu planning in French is overwhelming. I handle:

– Finding caterers that fit your budget + style
– Translating menus and contracts
– Organizing your tasting
– Making sure dietary needs are handled
– Coordinating wine + timing with your venue

You just show up and enjoy dinner like this.

Want help choosing a caterer who will make your guests say “best wedding food ever”? Let’s chat here.

Final Thought
Your venue sets the scene. Your photographer captures it.
But your caterer? They create the memory.

Choose someone who cares about the food, the service, and the experience.

Because 10 years from now, you won’t remember the chair covers. But you will remember this meal.