Your Day, the Iowa Way
Your wedding should be as unforgettable as your love story. At University Catering, we bring years of experience, creativity, and care to every celebration. Whether you choose a scenic campus venue or a location in the Iowa City–Coralville area, our team will make sure every detail reflects your vision.
Located in the heart of Iowa City, we've played an important role in the community for years, working to build and maintain strong relationships on and off campus. Whether you're looking to host your wedding on the University of Iowa campus or at an off-campus venue, we'll work with you to ensure you have an unforgettable day no matter what location you choose.
Ready to start planning?
Included in Your Day
From wedding planning services to complementary hors d'oeuvres, we strive to create a stress-free experience for you and your guests. View our wedding menus and find out more about what is included in your day.
Items Included
- Wedding Tasting
- Two complimentary hors d'oeuvres
- On site event supervisor and catering waitstaff
- Complimentary bar attendants
- Complimentary china and glassware service for events in the Iowa Memorial Union ($3.75 per person at all other locations)
- Complimentary Linen Package in IMU Only
- Black or White Table Linens
- Black or White Napkins
- Beverage stations or beverage service to guest tables
- Table numbers and holders
- Flexible floor plan- for weddings held at IMU (includes set up and tear down)
Rental Items
Need additional items that help you upgrade your wedding day? Rental items can be purchased through University Catering or through the Iowa Memorial Union (IMU). For rental items, you will need to consult with your catering sales coordinator or event services for more information on the updated pricing, AV equipment, lighting, and draping.
Frequently Asked Questions
As you continue the planning process, we've highlighted a few of the most common questions that our team receives.
What topics can the University Catering team assist me with as I begin my planning?
University Catering will assist you with any questions in regards to the timeline, food service, beverage service, bars, linens, and décor elements. Many items can be rented through University Catering. This means our team is responsible for the setup of those items. Examples of this include: chiavari chairs, chargers, decorative linens, etc.
Who sets up my personal items on my wedding day?
You, your family, and those you designate as helpers are responsible for any personal setup. Examples of this include: meal cards, centerpieces, lighting, signs, photo booth props, etc.
Can I purchase a cake from an outside vendor?
University Catering approves of outside cake, cupcakes, and pie as long as it is from a licensed vendor. These items cannot be stored in University Catering refrigerators and must be delivered the day of. Any dessert items purchased from University Catering will include refrigeration space, décor details and will be set out by University Catering staff.
When are my final numbers due?
Final numbers and any major changes to your catering order are due eight (8) days out from your big day to ensure product can be ordered in time. Final payment will be due 15 days out from your big day.
How does University Catering work with guests who have dietary restrictions?
University Catering routinely works with guests who have celiac disease, lactose intolerance, and other food-related allergies. We are happy to accommodate any guest that needs a specific meal and will work with you to ensure we get that meal to the right person. These details should be included at least eight (8) days out from your big day.
Who is able to attend the winter wedding tasting show and how does it work?
We allow up to four (4) total guests to attend the show at no charge. Each additional guest will be $25.00 and needs to be verified two (2) weeks in advance to assure product is ordered in. We cannot accept guests that show up the day of with no prior commitment.
Can I create a custom menu?
University Catering is happy to do a custom menu for you and your guests. Since these items would not be on our wedding menu, they will also not be featured at the winter wedding tasting show. You have the option to do a private tasting in place of the tasting show. This includes a limited selection of items to be prepared for up to four (4) guests.
Do we select beer, wine, and liquor or does University Catering have a house menu?
The bar menu on our website includes the bottled beer, wine, and liquor available at every wedding bar. If you would like to have something that is not available on this list, an additional charge will be involved and will depend on the availability of our distributors.
Questions
Have additional questions for another partner with University Catering? Feel free to reach out to them below.
- Event Services: John Cory (john-cory@uiowa.edu or 319-335-3629)
- Old Capital: Shereena Honary (shereena-honary@uiowa.edu or 319-335-2010)
- Hancher Auditorium: Danielle Wilbanks (danielle-wilbanks@uiowa.edu or 319-335-1148)
- Kinnick: (athl-premiumservices@uiowa.edu 319-335-9410)