You’ve browsed the web, received referrals from your friends and family, and have a vision of what you want. Now, it’s time to select your caterer.
Because there are so many different styles and levels of service among caterers, it can be difficult to know exactly what you’re getting without meeting with tons of contenders. With our years of experience in the food service business, the team at Celebrations Catering has picked up some helpful tips and hints to keep in mind when searching for a caterer.
- Go online and read as many reviews as you can. The Knot and Wedding Wire are great sources for information and reviews about multiple catering companies, even if you aren’t planning a wedding. All catering services differ in how they do business and the level of service they offer. Some arrive at the venue with food in foil pans and expect you to take care of the rest. Others charge by the hour for service, or make you pay a fee to visit your venue for planning purposes. Still other caterers offer a full-service solution, including food, certified and insured bartenders, service staff, table linens, trash removal, and china all in one package.
- If you can’t find any online reviews, you may be dealing with a less-established caterer or vendor. While this can be a way to get a great deal, it could also mean sub-par food or extra headaches since the vendor is still working out the kinks in his or her business.
- Once you have a list of potential caterers to contact, ask for a proposal in writing. Some will list low menu prices on their websites or in brochures, then tack on equipment fees, staffing fees, etc. Though there can be some variation in unpredictable costs – differences in delivery distance, whether trash removal needs to be included – a proposal should include all potential costs.
Have questions about our wedding or special event catering process, or ready to start planning your own event? Contact us today to talk with one of our knowledgeable, friendly staff members!
