How Much Does South Indian & Kerala Wedding Catering Cost in the UK?

Planning a wedding is thrilling, but for second-generation Indian expats in the UK, it often takes on a unique character. Back home, weddings are grand celebrations with thousands of guests, meticulously planned by families and event managers. In the UK, however, weddings are typically more intimate, with couples managing the planning and costs themselves.

This shift offers couples the freedom to embrace non-traditional elements, such as modern decor, personalised touches, and a global culinary palette alongside cherished traditions. While many guests may not be accustomed to the bold, spicy flavours of traditional South Indian cuisine, CoChilli bridges the gap with authentic dishes tailored to a diverse range of palates. By adjusting spice levels and weaving storytelling into every dish, we honour heritage while delighting guests of all backgrounds.

With roots in London’s finest hospitality sectors, CoChilli ensures your wedding menu is a perfect blend of tradition, taste, and inclusivity.

General Wedding Costs in the UK

Weddings in the UK typically cost between £18,000 and £32,000, with catering accounting for 30-40% of the total budget. Here’s a breakdown of typical wedding expenses:

• Venue Hire: £5,000 – £15,000
• Photography and Videography: £1,500 – £3,000
• Decor and Flowers: £1,000 – £5,000
• Attire and Jewellery: £2,000 – £5,000
• Catering and Bar Services: £5,000 – £10,000

Given the importance of food in any celebration, choosing a catering partner that aligns with your vision and budget is essential. 

Catering Costs in Depth

Per Guest Pricing

• Vegetarian Sadya Lunch: Starting at £20 per person.
• Non-Vegetarian Dinner: Starting at £35 per person.

Add-On Costs

• Staffing: Waiters (£150), Supervisors (£200), and Chefs (£200) per person for 8 hours.
• Delivery Charges: Based on your location and delivery requirements.
• Tableware Hire: £1,500 – £2,500 via third-party vendors.
• Live Food Stations: Starting at £250.

Sample Wedding Catering Costs for 100 Guests

Here’s an example of a full-day wedding catering plan:

• Morning Refreshments: £550 (tea, coffee, light snacks).
• Vegetarian Sadya Lunch: £2,000.
• Welcome Drinks & Canapés: £850.
• Non-Vegetarian Dinner: £3,500 (3 starters, 3 mains, 2 desserts).
• All-Day Staffing (10 staff for 8 hours): £2,500.
• Transportation: £350.
• Disposables & Miscellaneous: £250.

Total Estimated Cost: £10,000
(Actual costs vary based on preferences and guest count.)

What Happens When You Contact CoChilli for Your Wedding Catering?

We make the process simple and stress-free. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Complete our wedding enquiry form and schedule a consultation to discuss:

• Your wedding date and venue.
• Guest count, menu preferences, and dietary requirements.
• Budget and any special requests.

Step 2: Tailored Menu Proposal

Receive a bespoke menu with itemised pricing. A deposit is required to confirm your booking.

Step 3: Tasting Session

Taste your menu at home through our delivery service:

• Confirmed Bookings: Complimentary after deposit payment.
• Pre-Booking Option: Tasting fee applies, deductible upon booking.

Step 4: Customisation and Finalisation

We adjust spice levels, add live food stations, or incorporate fusion dishes to ensure your menu perfectly reflects your vision.

Step 5: Coordination and Logistics for Tableware Hire

Choose styles, calculate quantities, and pay directly or through CoChilli for convenience. Enjoy hassle-free delivery and collection.

Step 6: The Big Day

Our chefs and staff arrive early to set up and manage every aspect of the catering flow, ensuring flawless service.

Step 7: Post-Event Wrap-Up

We clean cooking areas, pack leftovers for takeaway, and prepare hired items for collection.

Why Couples Choose CoChilli for Wedding Catering

CoChilli offers more than just food—we deliver authenticity, creativity, and professionalism. Here’s why couples across the UK trust us:

1. Authentic South Indian Cuisine

From Thalassery Dum Biryani and Chettinad Chicken to grand vegetarian Sadya feasts, our chefs craft bold, vibrant dishes that leave a lasting impression.

2. Perfect for Multicultural Weddings

For couples blending cultures, we create menus that tell your unique story. Pair traditional dishes with global canapés, or include fusion delights like Inji Puli Chicken Wings, Vegetarian Fish Pollichathu, or Motichoor Ladoo Parfait.

3. Affordable Premium Services

We provide itemised quotes for complete transparency, allowing you to control your budget with no hidden surprises.

4. Customisable Menus

We cater to diverse dietary needs, offering vegan, Halal, and gluten-free options, along with live dosa stations and interactive food experiences.

5. Flexible Hire Services

Through trusted third-party vendors, we provide:

• A wide range of tableware and decor options.
• Transparent pricing.
• The flexibility to work with your chosen suppliers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the minimum guest count?
• We recommend a starting spend of £5,000, typically serving 50 guests.
• Can I customise my menu?
• Absolutely! We tailor menus to include global influences and dietary requirements.
• What happens to leftover food?
• Desserts are packed for takeaway. Leftover hot foods can be taken home, but we advise caution due to health and safety concerns. Suitable containers must be provided.
• Do you cater to dietary restrictions?
• Yes, including vegan, Halal, and gluten-free options.
• Do you provide tableware and furniture?
• Yes, through trusted third-party vendors.
• Do you provide allergen information?
• Yes, we provide a detailed allergen list for all menu items chosen for your event. Please inform us of any specific dietary requirements or allergies when placing your order so we can ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all your guests.

Plan Your Dream Wedding Catering with CoChilli

📖 Explore our Complete Wedding Catering Page here and let CoChilli bring bold, authentic South Indian flavours to your wedding day. From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, we’re here to make your celebration unforgettable. 

📧 Email us: hello@cochilli.co.uk
📞 Call us: 07912 041797 / 07471 512045
📱 WhatsApp us: Message Us Here
📖 Explore our full wedding catering menu here.