subject: Choosing The Perfect Caterer [print this page] You are planning an eventYou are planning an event. The event can be a dinner party, a wedding party or even a corporate office party. There are so many decisions to be made. One of the most critical is your choice of catering service. Your caterer will be providing the most critical aspect of any dinner arrangement, the food. It goes without saying you want the finest quality cuisine that is available. However, there are many other details you should consider before hiring the caterer.
The Wait Staff
Most catering services will provide a wait staff for the event. Do not assume anything. Ask your caterer how many waiters they will provide. What is the ratio of servers to guests? A good rule of thumb is one for every 10 guests. How will the wait staff be dressed? Is there a dress code? A critical question is whether taxes and gratuities are included in the final price the catering service has set for you or if it is extra.
Entertainment
Your caterer may have contacts for party entertainment that will make it easier and more affordable for you. Chances are good they have worked with the entertainers in the past and would be able to give you valuable information on whether they are quality entertainment and a good value for your money.
The Decorations
If your catering company does not provide tables, linens and chairs for their events, chances are he can hire someone for you that can. It is important that you know in advance exactly what your caterer is supplying, and what he is not. See if a brochure or a portfolio is available with examples of past events the company has run.
Conclusion
The correct questions during the interview process will determine if a catering service is the right one for you. Do not be swayed by the best price until asking all the relevant questions outlined above. With careful planning your event can be one of a kind.
