Why Abella is the Best Open Catering Venue in Minnesota

If you're planning a wedding near the Twin Cities, you've likely hit the dreaded "In-House Catering Required" wall. This isn't just an inconvenience—it's often a major budget killer and a creativity constraint.

You want authentic cultural dishes, a favorite local food truck, or simply the ability to control your per-person food cost. We get it. That’s why at Abella Weddings & Events, we’ve built our entire philosophy around your freedom, starting with our celebrated Open Catering Policy.

Roasted vegetables being loaded on a plate with lasagna and torellini

The Power to Choose: Bring Your Own Caterer (BYOC)

Searching for a wedding venue that truly lets you bring your own caterer in the Twin Cities or greater MN area? Your search ends here.

Abella is a stunning French country-inspired estate just 35 minutes from St. Paul and Minneapolis, and we believe your wedding menu should be as unique as your love story.

Save Thousands, Get Exactly What You Want

The single biggest financial advantage of an open catering venue like Abella is the massive cost control it puts in your hands.

  • Zero Food & Beverage Minimums: Most venues force you to spend a minimum amount on their food, regardless of your guest count. Abella has NO food and beverage minimums.

  • No Hidden Service Fees: We don't tack on mandatory service or administration fees to your catering bill, which can often be 18-25% of your total food cost at other venues.

  • The Power of Shopping Around: You are free to obtain quotes from a variety of licensed, full-service caterers. This competition ensures you get the best value without sacrificing quality.

The Abella Advantage: This freedom means you can take the $3,000–$10,000+ you save on restrictive in-house catering costs and put it toward a better honeymoon, more custom decor, or simply keep it in your savings!

Food That Tells Your Story

Beyond the budget, the "bring your own caterer" policy is about authenticity.

Your wedding is a personal celebration. Why settle for a generic menu when you can choose a caterer who specializes in the food that truly represents you?

  • Cultural Cuisine: Easily hire a licensed caterer who excels in authentic Indian, Hmong, Mexican, or Mediterranean cuisine to honor your heritage.

  • Local Favorites: Want that amazing local restaurant to cater your reception? As long as they are licensed and full-service, they are welcome at Abella.

  • Dietary Needs Handled: Work directly with your chosen caterer to ensure every single guest's dietary restriction is handled with care and expertise.

Luxury Venue, Flexible Rules

Abella provides a breathtaking, luxury setting—a spacious, climate-controlled French Country Hall, a historic barn, and 19 acres of secluded beauty—all with the relaxed, budget-friendly rules you need.

We simply require that you hire a licensed, full-service caterer who handles all food preparation, serving, cleanup, and bussing. This ensures a seamless, stress-free day for you and your guests.

Stop compromising on your dream menu to fit a venue’s rules. Choose the stunning French-country escape where flexibility, value, and luxury meet—just a short drive from the Twin Cities!

Ready to find your perfect venue with true open catering freedom?

Click here to view our availability and learn more about our Open Catering Policy!

Featured photos were taken by Kelly Friday Photography and feature an Italian pasta bar and late night pretzel bar from Donatelli’s, one of our preferred caterers!

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