Choosing a Caterer

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Choosing  a Caterer

What to Serve

Once you’ve heard of a caterer you are interested in, call them to set up an appointment and request as much information by mail or email that you can, such as background, brochures and menus.

Check if they have a website and search online through their menus and information. Review biographical information on the chef and his area of specialties to get a feel for the type of food he can create and if it matches the cuisines you enjoy.

Before the appointment, think about some of the basic information you will need to provide to the caterer, such as the date, time of day, your approximate budget, and
number of guests. Give a good amount of thought to the type of reception you envision as well as any special needs or requests—don’t forget any food allergies!

Try to meet with the caterer at the reception site you have chosen. Ask lots of questions, including topics such as availability, menu options, service requirements, set-up and clean-up, equipment, gratuities, and of course, pricing and exactly what they include. Many caterers go well beyond the cuisine and handle everything from china and glassware rentals to floral arrangements and a string quartet. After you have met and decide to continue the process and choose a tentative menu, it is wise to schedule a tasting of the food you are considering before making your final menu selections. Make sure you feel comfortable with the menu you have chosen and the quality of the food provided.
If your caterer is handling just the food for your event, make sure they are coordinating with all of the other wedding vendors they may need to interact with, which may include the florist, pastry shop, liquor store, rental company, entertainment, and on-site venue coordinator. Direct, clear communication is a very important responsibility between your caterer and all the other elements of your wedding reception. Most times, the caterer is the key to making that all happen. Provide the caterer with your other vendor names and numbers and vice versa and emphasize how important
it is for them to coordinate on your behalf.