Catered by Design
Award-rated caterer specializing in custom wedding menus and elevated service.
Catered by Design brings culinary creativity and flawless execution to Chicago-area weddings. With a 4.9/5 rating from 169 reviews, they're known for crafting custom menus that reflect each couple's vision while delivering impeccable service and presentation. Their team handles everything from intimate gatherings to large celebrations with the same attention to detail and passion.
Save Catered by Design, and it's on your wedding.
Everything you save lands on your own Aisle plan, a private page for the two of you. Send the link to your partner, your parents, your maid of honour, and they see the same shortlist, the same photographs, the same dates. No forwarding screenshots.
Booking one caterer is easy.
Booking a whole wedding abroad isn't.
This caterer sits beside your venue and the rest of the team, one page you own.
Send the same dates to several vendors at once. Replies land in a single thread.
A real person checks availability and chases paperwork while you enjoy the good part.
Services
Hiring a wedding caterer in Chicago, IL
Local cuisine vs. familiar menus
One of the best parts of a destination wedding in Chicago, IL is the food. Consider incorporating local dishes and ingredients, your guests will remember a menu that reflects the destination. Many caterers offer tasting menus that blend local and international cuisine.
What to budget
Catering costs vary significantly by destination. Budget $75–$250+ per person depending on the style of service (buffet, plated, family-style) and the formality of the event. Don't forget to budget for the welcome dinner and any post-wedding brunches.
Questions to ask before booking
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies? Do you offer tastings before the wedding? Is alcohol included or separate? What's the service style? Do you handle rentals (plates, linens, glassware)? What are your staffing ratios?
When to book
Book 6–10 months ahead. If your venue has an in-house caterer, this decision may be made for you, which simplifies planning considerably.
Questions couples ask
How far in advance should I book Catered by Design?+
We recommend booking 4-6 months prior to your wedding date, especially for popular seasons. However, they may accommodate shorter timelines depending on availability. Contact them early to discuss your date and vision.
What is the typical price range?+
Catering costs typically range from $75-150+ per person depending on menu selection, service level, and guest count. They offer tiered packages and can work within various budgets. Request a quote for specific pricing.
Do they travel for destination weddings?+
While based in Morton Grove, they primarily serve Chicago and surrounding areas. Contact them directly to discuss destination wedding possibilities and any travel fees.
What's included in their packages?+
Packages typically include custom menu planning, food preparation, professional service staff, and coordination. Specifics vary, confirm what's covered (rentals, bar service, timeline management) during your consultation.