The food can be the most memorable highlight of any event so choosing the right caterer can be a tough decision! Before planning your event, there are many things you will want to be aware of. Communication is important – you must be very clear and precise about what you are looking for. Before you begin asking questions, you should be aware of what is included in the caterer’s fees, such as alcohol, staff, tables, chairs, serving ware, garbage cans and more. Here are the questions we suggest you ask before signing the dotted line with a caterer:
How much of the clean up do you take care of?
If cleaning up isn’t for you, make sure you ask your catering vendor if they offer cleaning services. This service is not always included in a catering package.
How will the food be arranged and would you handle the table settings?
Some caterers can be elaborate in their presentation while others keep things more simple. If you have place cards and/or party favors, find out how your caterer may help with the arrangement of these items.
Who will be present on the day of the event?
You will want to know who the main contact will be on the day of the event. There will be many things happening at once so it will be important for you to know who to contact to ensure a smooth event.
What can you do for guests with allergies and dietary restrictions?
This is more common than you think. Food allergies and special diets like vegetarian and vegan can be a major concern for some guests. Most caterers will have dietary food options, but try to find this out upfront. You may also want to consider kid-friendly food options too!
Do you provide alcoholic beverages and bartenders?
Some caterers provide this service, some do not. You will want to consider the type of alcohol service you want, such as unlimited beer and wine, an assortment of beers and wine, or premium open bar. There are many choices so check to see what packages you can choose from.
Do you handle rental equipment such as tables, chairs, etc.?
This can often be the deciding factor in choosing a caterer. Check to see if this service is included in the caterer’s package or if it is a separate price.
How will your staff dress?
Don’t forget to ask how the catering staff will dress, as that too affects the event’s overall look and feel. You don’t want the waiters wearing funky t-shirts and sweatpants! It is ideal to have the staff easy to identify so be sure to find this out before making your decision.
There are many questions you must ask your caterer before doing business with them. Remember, they are the professionals, so don’t be afraid to leave it to the pros! An experienced party planner or caterer will be able to guide you and help you decide what’s right for you and your guests. We offer a catering experience that becomes the centerpiece of any event. Let us work with you to custom-tailor the event you’re envisioning and take the hassle out of feeding your guests. If you have any questions or want to learn more about our catering services, please visit our catering page.
