Choosing a caterer for your wedding reception is one of the most important decisions you'll be making. The food bill is actually one of the largest reception expenses and can vary greatly from caterer to caterer so does the quality of the food. That's why you'll need to be selective when you're choosing a caterer.

One thing you should know is that many reception halls work with in-house caterers who automatically are hired to provide food for your event. Unfortunately, the in-houses caterers may not always provide the best tasting food or the largest selection of menu options. Prices for the catering can also be more expensive because there is no competition to drive down costs.

If you're not happy with the in-house caterer, ask the reception facility if you can bring in an independent caterer. Some will say yes; others will refuse. If the answer is no, go somewhere else for your location – the quality and price of the food is more important than the location of your reception.

When you begin evaluating catering companies, you should begin by looking at their different options. Some catering companies specialize in buffets or sit-down meals while others can provide almost any type of catering possible, including food stations. Hopefully, you'll have some idea of the type of catering you want for your reception and can use this knowledge to narrow down your choices considerably.

Next, you should look at the caterers' menu choices. Look for a good selection of entrees and side dishes so that you can select a wide assortment of foods that will appeal to your guests. Not all of your guests will have the same tastes in food, after all. You may also want to ask about vegetarian or kids' meal options, too.

You'll also want to schedule a tasting session. At the session, the caterer will provide you with samples of different menu choices (usually ones you request) so that you can taste them for yourself and make your final menu decisions. Don't decide on a caterer until you've completed some tasting sessions. Even the friendliest caterer can have terrible food.

In terms of pricing, don't expect to receive a set price for your catering. Instead, you will be quoted an estimated per person price. When you give the caterer the final head count for the reception (usually one to two weeks prior to the wedding), he or she will give you an exact per person price. Because food prices tend to fluctuate greatly even over the course of six to twelve months, caterers don't want to commit to a price that might cost them money in the long run. Make sure that you do ask what that estimated price includes. Some caterers charge extra for beverages, utensils and plates, etc.

Additionally, you'll want to know if there are any items related to the catering that you will need to rent. Table linens, for example, are not always included in the catering price neither are servers. If you do have servers included in your price, ask how many will be included and what they will be wearing. Preferably, their attire will nicely match the tone of your reception. Don't be surprised if having servers cost you extra – this is one reason why couples on a tight budget opt for food stations and buffets instead of sit-down meals for their receptions.

The bottom line is that you need to choose a caterer who provides a good balance between quality food, affordable prices, and included extras (servers and linens, for example). Remember don't pick a caterer based on price alone. You might end up incurring additional expenses or feeding your guests some horrible food.