What Is a Service Charge in Catering and How Does It Affect Your Event Budget?

Mega Alexander Staff Outdoor Wedding service

One of the most important elements of your wedding is the food—and choosing the right caterer is one of the first big decisions you’ll make. At Mega Alexander Foods, we specialize in affordable five-star catering, delivering exceptional food and service without hidden surprises.

If you’re planning your wedding without a planner and comparing catering quotes on your own, there’s one key cost you need to understand: the catering service charge.

Breaking Down Your Catering Quote

A full-service catering quote generally consists of four main components:

1️⃣ The cost of food and beverages – This is typically listed as a per-person price and reflects the quality ingredients and preparation involved.

2️⃣ The cost of staffing – This includes chefs, captains, servers, and certified bartenders to ensure a smooth and professional experience.

3️⃣ The cost of rentals (if applicable) – If your caterer is providing items like plates, flatware, glassware, linens, tables, or serving equipment, those costs are included here.

4️⃣ Taxes and fees – This is where you’ll find the service charge.

What Is the Service Charge?

Many couples assume that the service charge covers labor or gratuities, but that’s not the case. The service charge is not a tip for the staff, nor does it directly pay for servers, chefs, or bartenders.

Instead, it covers the operating costs of running a full-service catering company. This includes:

✔️ Kitchen space and commercial equipment (stoves, ovens, freezers, storage)✔️ Vehicles and transportation to deliver food and equipment to your venue✔️ Essential catering gear like chafing dishes, serving platters, and utensils✔️ Administrative costs such as event planning, menu customization, and booking management

Most caterers charge a service fee ranging from 10% to 20% of the total catering bill to account for these costs.

Transparency & Affordability with Mega Alexander Foods

At Mega Alexander Foods, we believe in clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Unlike some catering companies that only show per-person food costs in sample menus, our quotes include:

✅ Full staffing – We provide a dedicated team of chefs, servers, and bartenders✅ Free rental coordination – We help arrange rentals at no extra charge✅ Complimentary cake cutting and event coordination – Adding value at no extra cost✅ Flexible menu options – Stunning buffets, elegant family-style dining, and impressive appetizers

Get an Accurate Quote

When comparing caterers, it’s important to request a full quote rather than relying on menu pricing alone. Many couples underestimate the final cost when they don’t factor in staffing, rentals, service charges, and taxes.

At Mega Alexander Foods, we are committed to helping you stay within budget while delivering an unforgettable five-star dining experience for your special day.

Let’s Talk! Our summer wedding dates are filling up fast. If you’d like a personalized quote for your wedding, reach out today—we’d love to be part of your celebration!