When it comes to planning your dream wedding in the beautiful Hudson Valley, one of the biggest expenses you'll face is catering. Whether you're envisioning an elegant plated dinner, a fun and casual BBQ, or something entirely unique, understanding the real costs involved is crucial to staying within your budget. At Shale Hill Events, we work closely with couples to craft memorable culinary experiences that are both delicious and cost-effective.

In this blog post, we’ll break down the real catering costs for your Hudson Valley wedding, with a special spotlight on Oz Farms as a preferred venue that offers exceptional value and breathtaking scenery for your big day. Let’s dive into the numbers and tips to help you make the most informed decisions about your wedding catering!

Catering Cost Breakdown: What You Need to Know

When it comes to wedding catering, there are several options to consider—each with varying price points. Here’s a quick guide to the most common services we offer and the costs involved:

Harvest Welcome Station: $40 per person

This is a perfect way to kick off your celebration with an impressive spread of locally sourced delights. The station includes seasonal vegetables, hummus, whipped feta, cured olives and pickles, a selection of cheeses and meats, honeycomb, dried fruits, nuts, crackers, and local breads. This is an elegant yet affordable way to start your event and keep guests satisfied before dinner.

Passed Hors D’oeuvres: $25 per person per hour

Choose three hors d’oeuvres from our curated selections, and enjoy a variety of bite-sized treats during your cocktail hour. If you’d like to add more options, additional choices are available for $8 per person per hour.

Family-Style Dinner: $90 per person

Our family-style dinners are a crowd-pleaser. Share large platters of delicious food with your guests for a warm, communal feel. From hearty meats to seasonal sides, this menu will ensure no one leaves hungry.

Family Backyard BBQ: $65 per person

A casual, fun alternative for your wedding catering, this BBQ package includes disposable place settings, jalapeno cornbread, honey butter, and BBQ sauce—perfect for a laid-back celebration. A great choice for couples seeking a relaxed vibe with incredible food.

Special Plated Meal: $100 per person

For those who prefer a formal plated meal, we offer several elegant options. This service includes beautifully presented dishes, attentive waitstaff, and a more refined dining experience.

Late Night Snacks

For a fun late-night treat, we offer a S’mores Bar for $10 per person. Whether you want to serve these indoors with small burners or outdoors over fire pits (weather permitting), this sweet and interactive snack will keep guests engaged and satisfied.

Oz Farms Late-Night Snack Special

Oz Farms in Saugerties is a preferred venue for Shale Hill Events and offers a stunning setting with fantastic amenities, including two late-night snacks for your event when you book with us. The farm is a wonderful location for rustic charm and provides an incredible backdrop for your wedding day.

Bar Packages

Beer + Wine Bar: $50 per person for 4 hours
River Package: $60 per person for 4 hours
Mountain Package: $90 per person for 4 hours

Our bar packages include a selection of wines, beers, and spirits, with options for additional hours at an added cost. Specialty cocktails are available at $350 per 50 drinks, and we can customize your bar selection to fit your theme and preferences.

Off-Site Catering Rentals and Fees

One important aspect to keep in mind is that for off-site events, full rentals of kitchen equipment, platters, and serving utensils are required. These items are included when your event takes place at Oz Farm. This makes Oz Farm an ideal choice for couples who want to ensure a seamless event without worrying about additional rental logistics.

There is also an off-site rental fee starting at $3,000, and the off-site bar setup fee starts at $500.

Budgeting Tips for Your Hudson Valley Wedding Catering

Consider Your Guest List: The number of guests you’re inviting will directly affect your catering costs. Be sure to factor in how many people you'll be serving, and keep in mind that adding extra hors d’oeuvres or late-night snacks can add up quickly.
Choose Wisely Between Family-Style and Plated: Family-style dinners are generally a more affordable option than plated meals. However, plated meals offer a more formal experience and may be a better fit for couples with specific dietary needs or preferences.
Opt for Seasonal and Local: Using local, seasonal ingredients not only supports local farmers but can also reduce food costs while ensuring the highest quality and freshest ingredients.
Bar Packages: Keep in mind that bar packages can range from modest to premium. If you’re working with a tighter budget, consider offering a limited selection of drinks or cutting down the open bar time.
Take Advantage of Venue-Specific Inclusions: Venues like Oz Farms simplify the catering process by providing rental equipment as part of their package, reducing your need for additional rentals.

Why Oz Farm is the Perfect Venue for Your Hudson Valley Wedding

As one of our preferred venues, Oz Farm in Saugerties offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern amenities. Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley, this venue provides a picturesque setting for your wedding day. With its beautiful barn, outdoor spaces, and convenient access to all the rentals you need, Oz Farm ensures that your event is seamless and stress-free. Plus, booking your wedding at Oz Farms includes added benefits, like a S’mores Bar and two late-night snacks, making it a great choice for couples seeking both value and charm.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding catering is one of the most important aspects of your big day, and having a clear understanding of the costs involved is essential for staying within your budget. At Shale Hill Events, we offer a variety of options to fit every taste and budget, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.

Whether you're planning a formal plated dinner, a casual BBQ, or something completely unique, we’ve got you covered. And don’t forget to consider the stunning Oz Farms for your event—where culinary excellence meets natural beauty.

Ready to start planning? Contact us today, and let’s bring your vision to life!

Planning Your Hudson Valley Wedding Budget: Real Catering Costs and Tips