1. does the caterer
specialize in certain types of food or service? (ask for
sample menus to review even if you assume that specializations will
be costly, they might be within your budget) |
2. can you sample
specific foods you're interested in prior to hiring a caterer?
(they should upon request) |
3. what is the caterer抯
price structure? are costs itemized depending on the foods you
choose, or is there an all-inclusive flat rate? what would that
include (linens, tax, gratuities, etc.)? (you should be
provided with a cost sheet outlining all cost items in detail) |
4. to what degree will
the caterer be involved during your reception? does he or she
operate like a wedding coordinator/banquet manager, cueing the band,
telling the couple when to cut the cake, adjusting the schedule as
needed when trying to get guests seated for dinner? (you
will need to find someone to fill this role if your caterer isn't
going to do this. appoint others willing to take responsibility or
think about hiring a wedding coordinator) |
5. will the caterer
provide tables, chairs, plates, table linens, silverware,
salt-and-pepper shakers, and more? ask to see these items to make
sure they're acceptable. do you have to rent tables, tents, place
settings, and/or other equipment or will they arrange for the
rentals? (know who is responsible for ordering these
items, you, the caterer, or other. last minute ordering might not be
an option in the event that someone does not clearly understand his
or her ordering responsibilities) |
|
6. who is the main
contact? will the same person you work with when planning also
oversee meal service on the day of the wedding? (you want
the initial contact person to be present on the day of your wedding)
|
7. is the caterer
working any other weddings on the same weekend, on the same day, or
at the same time as yours? (you want to be sure they will
devote sufficient attention to you. know and understand how the
caterer抯 team plans to do this before you hire them) |
8. does the caterer
handle all settings of tables including putting out place cards and
favors? (if caterer does not handle this, find someone
(wedding coordinator, family, or friend) responsible, neat, and with
(wedding coordinator, family, or friend) responsible, neat, and with
the ability to set-up before guests arrive for the reception) |
9. will the caterer
provide a wait staff, if so, how many is recommended for the size of
your wedding? what will the wait staff wear, style of uniforms?
(top caterers say they always use their own serving personnel
because they understand the caterer's way of doing business) |
10. will the caterer be
willing to include a special family dish or appetizer with recipe
specifics? can they prepare vegetarian, kosher, or another meal of
specific culture or religion for just a few of your guests?
(you want to show all guests that you appreciate and acknowledge
their sharing this special day with you) |
11. where will the food
be prepared: on-site, off-site, or will special preparations need to
be made? will the food be fresh? (know who is responsible
for making specific foods, as a family recipe for a few guests might
require a guest to prepare at his or her home) |
12. does the caterer
have a license? (this means the business has met health
department standards and has liability insurance... make sure this
includes a liquor license if you're having a bar) |
13. can the caterer
provide alcohol? or can you handle the bar separately? if you can
provide it, is there a corkage fee? how and when do you get the
alcohol to the caterer? if the caterer will provide it, can you make
special requests including wines and liquors? (review and
compare the cost structure when comparing options) |
14. how will the caterer
arrange the food on the buffet table or on plates? do you have a say
in how table accessories are arranged? can you see photos of
previous work displays? (most professional caterers will
provide pictures of past displays) |
15. can you speak to
previous clients? (get at least two references that had a
similar number of guests and a similar menu style in order to
reinforce your confidence in the caterer you hold interest) |
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