Finding, Buying and Hiring
If you’re catering yourself, you’ll need to think about cheap wedding napkins and tableware. Whether you’re having a buffet or a full sit down meal, all weddings need napkins, plates, cutlery and glasses. |
First off, napkins
You can always find disposable napkins in most supermarkets, department stores and pound shops, the prices vary wildly, depending on the style, thickness and design. If you’re looking for something more upmarket, then consider hiring real linen napkins.
Choose style over budget?
There are different types of napkins and just because you’re after cheap wedding napkins, doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or quality.
The most basic of napkins is the 2 ply tissue napkin. These are often quite flimsy and not too absorbent, but you’ll find they come in plenty of colours and are very cheap.
For something longer lasting and better quality for a wedding, choose a 3 ply napkin at least. These come in lots of different colours, patterns and designs, so you should find something to match your wedding theme.
For good quality paper napkins, you can use a 4 ply napkin. They’re much thicker and more durable than 2 or 3 ply so I’d strongly recommend using this type of napkin, if your budget will allow.
Finally, you can also find ‘linen-look’ paper napkins. These are usually very thick and have the look and feel of real linen napkins. They are cheaper than buying or hiring real linen, but quite expensive when compared against other paper napkins.
I found these patterned linen feel napkins in Sainsburys for £2.99 for a pack of 12. The pattern looks fabulous and they have table cloths to match. There were several different patterns and colours.
Going for a quality napkin can really make your wedding feel more upmarket. When you see the thinner paper napkins crumbled up after eating, they tend to look very messy. A higher quality napkin will make the world of difference to the feel of your wedding.
Consider hiring linen napkins
If you’re planning on a linen look or very high quality napkins, then consider hiring real linen napkins as the price isn't that much more. They’ll provide a luxurious feel to your wedding, especially if you have table cloths to match. Linen napkins also come in various different colours and patterns, so you can usually find something that is suitable for your wedding theme.
Going the extra mile
With napkins, you really can go the extra mile. It’s possible to get paper napkins personalised with your initials, a personal message or your motif. Or with linen napkins, you can get them pre-folded to a style of your choice. Of course, both these extras bump up your cost, so I’d keep it simple for cheap wedding napkins.
Finding cheap wedding napkins
You can hire linen napkins from most catering companies. Those that hire equipment often hire table linen, including table cloths and napkins as well. They’re usually priced individually with laundry included. Delivery and VAT aren’t usually included in the price, so make sure you allow for these.
Don’t forget to look around at different suppliers and get in at least three different quotes to ensure you get the best value for money.
Tableware: Real or disposable?
When I got married, I weighed this one up considerably. I was catering myself and so needed to provide plates, cutlery and serving dishes, but should I buy disposables or hire them?
After a far amount of research, I decided hiring what I needed would only cost a little more than buying disposables and they’d look a lot nicer too. They also came with a washing up package and for an extra £60, they did all the washing up as well. That was a relief for us the next morning!
You can hire catering equipment up and down the country, so it’s best to do a search on Google and find a supplier nearest to you.
Just a couple of things to look out for... Remember delivery and VAT may not be included in the price you see and double check the hire period. For example, will you be around when it needs to be collected?
Featured Advertiser Links |
| Place your link here from only £5 per month. |
Related articles:
DIY Wedding Catering – Hints and Tips
Tips For Cutting Your Wedding Catering Costs
Got A Wedding Catering Question You Need Answering?
Easy Wedding Food For Buffets
Cheap Wedding Reception Menu Ideas