The food truck phenomenon has taken the country by storm. From New York to Los Angeles, people can’t get enough of the unique cuisine and dining experience that food trucks provide. If you want to bring this fresh, urban feel to your wedding, then having your own food truck at your event may be just what you need! Here are ten things you need to know about having a food truck wedding.
1) How much does it cost?
Having your wedding food trucked is just as expensive as having it catered. Of course, renting a food truck costs more than buying a few trays of finger sandwiches and snacks at Costco, but it’s still not an outrageous amount of money. Keep in mind that you can also save money by bringing your own decorations and furniture or borrowing them from friends or family. This way, you don’t have to fork over any cash for decorating supplies.
2) Where can I have my wedding truck?
There are several areas in major cities where food trucks congregate, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston, The Loop in Chicago and Union Square in New York City. Another option is to reach out directly to local trucks and see if they’re available for your date. Some trucks are able to cater off-site weddings at a flat rate, which can be cheaper than renting out an entire venue. (In some cases, guests may even be able to pay for their meals via credit card on site.) Just keep in mind that most food truck chefs don’t provide traditional wedding cakes or desserts; instead, you might ask them for recommendations on other bakeries or dessert shops.
3) Food truck supplier costs
A food truck wedding might sound like an interesting alternative to a typical sit-down affair, but it’s also one that comes with its own unique set of costs. Many couples choose food trucks for their wedding because they’re inexpensive compared to traditional caterers—but these savings have come at a cost. Food trucks can be difficult to book and are notorious for being less reliable than restaurants. Most will accept bookings six months in advance or less, so you need to start planning your day as soon as possible!
4) The hidden costs
If you’re thinking about going with a food truck wedding, understand that it won’t be cheap. According to some of our sources, you can count on spending at least $25,000 on an average wedding. And while there are ways to save money when planning your big day (like choosing an off-season or less expensive location), finding ways to reduce your catering costs might be more challenging. Food trucks don’t come cheap — according to one infographic , you can expect prices ranging from $500 for appetizers up to $12,000 for dessert.
5) How do I plan ahead?
If you’re thinking about having your wedding catered by a food truck, it’s important to make sure you book early. Food trucks get booked up months in advance. If you have dreams of marrying an ice cream truck, think again: Most vendors have committed season schedules that don’t leave them with any vacancies for spontaneous weddings. To get on their radar before it’s too late, follow your favorite trucks on social media and reach out directly via email or phone. Be sure to ask if they offer off-season packages—they might just give you a great deal since they won’t be spending money on gas or electricity during colder months.
6) Research, Research, Research!
When it comes to food, you don’t want your guests getting cold feet because their favorite dish was unavailable. Research is one of your most important tasks as you plan your menu. First and foremost, determine whether or not your venue permits outside food; many caterers won’t allow dishes prepared off-site. Second, meet with vendors and get everything in writing—this will save you time and money in the long run by ensuring that no matter what, someone is ready to go when they need to be.
7) What should I serve at my wedding food truck?
The first thing you should consider is what kind of food truck wedding you’re going for. Are you trying to have an outdoor, rustic wedding? Or do you want an elegant affair in your parents’ backyard? Will your guests be sitting at a long table or will they be served on-the-go? Don’t worry; there are plenty of choices no matter what kind of food truck wedding you go for. In our opinion, tacos are always a good idea! The best part is that it’s easy and delicious! We recommend pulled pork or steak tacos with bean and cheese burritos as well as some tasty street corn.
8) What sort of set up should I use?
In most cities, food trucks are subject to all of the same rules as brick-and-mortar restaurants. The main difference is that you’ll need parking permits, so your guests can park nearby. You also won’t have access to typical amenities like indoor bathrooms and a full kitchen, so do your homework and talk with your venue in advance. Some couples have food trucks cater their weddings but serve meals at off-site locations; others have them parked close by and allow guests to purchase directly from vendors, then eat in designated areas near where they parked. In any case, it’s important to speak with local authorities before making firm plans.
9) How many people will attend?
Just because you’re serving food at your wedding doesn’t mean it has to be a huge production. Think small, intimate weddings that are catered by an independent business (like your favorite neighborhood restaurant or food truck). Your wedding won’t need more than 100 people. When it comes to guests, keep in mind that many of them might be traveling across town and have limited time after work so plan for that. This way everyone can get home for dinner on time! And if you have guests attending from out of town, let them know they don’t need to stay at a hotel; encourage them to check into an AirBnB instead. You could even rent out an Airbnb during your event as well!
10) Have fun and remember this is your special day!
Before you even begin your wedding planning, have a sit-down with your fiancé and discuss what food trucks you want at your wedding. Be sure to include details such as whether or not they will be serving guests during or before cocktail hour or if they are simply going to be present on-site for decoration purposes. You might also consider if you want themed foods or specific food vendors (i.e. vegan, Kosher, Halal). It’s important that everyone feels comfortable with the food being served at your big day so make sure that these questions are answered!
