There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting your caterer, so don't be afraid to ask questions! (After all, it's your day!) We've compiled a list of questions for you to start with after the jump (click: "Read more"). Happy caterer hunting!
It helps to have an idea of... your event date, your venue, and your number of guests.
The Basics:
1. Do you have my date open?2. Are you licensed by the state of California? Possessing a license means the caterer has met health department standards and has liability insurance.
3. Have you catered events at my location before? If you haven't chosen a venue yet, we may be able to help you find one!
The Food & Settings:
1. Do you specialize in certain cuisines or services? Ask for sample menus!
2. Do you offer event packages or are items a la carte?
3. What decor do you provide for appetizer stations or buffet tables?
4. What is the cost-per-person for a buffet or for a sit-down meal?
5. How much do you charge for children's meals?
6. Do you provide wedding cakes? If so, what is the cost?
7. Do you charge a cake-cutting fee? Cake-cutting fees add up! Four Seasons Catering's cake-cutting is complimentary. :)
8. Do you provide food tastings? Always, always taste the food ahead of time! The last thing you want on the day of your event is an unfortunate surprise.
9. Do you provide rental equipment, such as tables, chairs, etc?
10. What types of linens, glassware, dishware, and silverware are provided?
11. Will you put out place cards, menu cards, and/or favors? Not all caterers will place these for you, which means you'll have to find an extra hand during set-up to do so!
12. How is the food arranged either on the buffet table or on plates?
13. Is clean-up included? The renter of the venue is ultimately responsible! Make sure your caterer will clean up after the party (in writing), or else you might spend your wedding night tossing hundreds of dirty plates away!
The Details:
1. What is the ratio of servers to guests?
2. How will the servers be dressed?
3. How is your pricing broken down? Some caterers include gratuity in the overall cost, while others do not.
4. How much time do you require for setting up and breaking down? Are there extra fees?
5. What is the last date by which I can give you a final guaranteed guest count?
6. What is your payment policy?
7. How much of a deposit is required to hold my date?
8. Can you provide a list of recent references? Contact two.
The Last Consideration:
Ask yourself: How do I feel about this caterer? Do they seem trustworthy and professional? Do they seem to understand my vision for my event?
