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Tips for Choosing a Good Caterer
Whatever event you’re planning on – a wedding, a fundraiser, a business expo, etc. – it’s important to choose the right caterer. We all know how important food is! But what exactly should you look for in a caterer?
If this is your first time, read these tips:
Finding Prospects
Being a newbie, you have to start from below. That means getting recommendations from friends and relatives, and checking out online reviews. If you have booked a venue, ask the management for a little help.
Visiting the Premises
This is crucial. Take a look at their kitchen before you book any catering service. Everything should be organized and the area clean, period. Otherwise, you’ll only be putting your health and that of your guests in danger.
Reviewing the Menu
Not all catering services are right for all kinds of events, and of course, you’ll want to hire one that is a match to your needs. If you have ideas about the menu that you would like them to hear about, mention them during your meeting. They should be open to your inputs, or you can look for another prospect. If you or any of your guests has allergies to certain foods or other dietary restrictions, mention them as well.
Staffing
If you’re uncertain about the size of your staff, below is a quick guide:
> For buffets, you’ll be fine with two servers for 30 people. If you have a larger group, you’ll need two or three more runners for restocking chafing stations and clearing dishes.
> If you’re having a sit-down meal, you will do with one server per table of eight, plus more servers for the drinks.
> For the bar, one staff per 50 guests is manageable, plus more bartenders for specialty drink stations you might want to have.
> For each group of six staff members, get one captain of service.
Testing the Menu
All professional caterers offer menu tasting for their customers. Everyone may think their food is fantastic, but if it’s lame to you, there’s no need to feel obliged to hire them. The menu should be completely your choice, and of course, you have to like their food.
Cost
Don’t go for a caterer just because they charge cheap, but cost will always be important nevertheless. Be straightforward about your budget, and make sure the quote you receive already includes everything, from set-up to staffing. Lastly, inquire about any additional costs before you sign the contract. You don’t want that kind of surprise.
Apparently, it’s going to take time finding a good caterer. But you can rest assured it’s going to be time well-spent.