This is one of the questions we get asked the most, especially from couples in Wilmington who already have a caterer in mind or want the freedom to shop around. I want to give you a straightforward answer, along with what that actually looks like once you’re planning your day with us.
At The Edge 18 in Wilmington, DE, couples must choose catering from an approved list of vendors rather than bringing in their own caterer for ballroom events, while bartending is always provided by the venue itself, and outdoor events allow self-catered food, though on-site grilling is not permitted.
Our Caterer Policy at The Edge 18
Catering and beverages aren’t included in our venue packages, and instead of one single in-house kitchen, we work with a variety of approved caterers so you have real options to choose from. It’s not a bring-any-caterer-you-like arrangement, but it’s also not a one-caterer-only setup either, which tends to surprise people in a good way once they see the list.
Choosing From Our Approved Caterer List
Every one of our ballroom packages asks you to pick your caterer from our approved list, and that list is built to give you variety rather than lock you into one style of food or one price point. Our pricing guide lays out which package fits your event so you know what you’re working with before you start narrowing down caterers.
What You’ll Still Handle Once You’ve Picked a Caterer
Once your caterer is booked, you’ll coordinate with them directly on things like your table settings, so plates, cutlery, and glassware are covered as part of that relationship rather than something we supply separately. Cake and cake cutting also fall under what you arrange yourself, along with any décor or finishing touches you want layered on top of the meal.
How the Bar Works Alongside Your Caterer
Even though your caterer handles the food, we handle the bar ourselves. All bartending at The Edge 18 is provided by our team, and you’ll select your spirits and drink package separately from whatever catering arrangement you land on, so the two pieces run side by side rather than through one vendor.
Why We Set It Up This Way
Working from an approved list lets us keep things running smoothly on event day, since our team already knows how each caterer operates in our ballroom. As a family-owned venue, we’ve built these relationships over time, and it’s part of what makes the day easier to coordinate for you.
Conclusion
If you’re weighing your catering options for a Wilmington event, the best next step is to see our ballroom and talk through the caterer list in person. Call us at 302-376-6500, Option 3, email edge18info@gmail.com, or reach out through our contact page, and we’ll walk you through which caterers fit the style you’re going for.
FAQs
Can we choose any caterer we want, or does it have to be from your list?
Your caterer needs to come from our approved list. We don’t restrict you to a single option, but outside caterers aren’t part of our packages.
Does The Edge 18 provide plates, cutlery, and glassware?
No, table settings are something you’ll arrange through your chosen caterer rather than something included in the venue rental.
Who runs the bar if our caterer is handling the food?
We do. All bartending is provided by The Edge 18 regardless of which caterer you choose for food.
Can we bring in our own food if we’re not using the ballroom?
If you’re booking our outdoor space, you can bring in your own food, though grilling isn’t permitted on site.