FAQs to Ask Wedding Caterers
The food catered at your wedding will be a large part of your budget, as well as a focal point in your wedding reception. Be sure you are a getting a professional caterer who will be worth your money by asking a few questions first. Schedule a time to visit the caterer, and taste the food during the interview before making a commitment.
Q: How long have you been in the catering business?
A: Look for a company that has been catering for at least two years. The longer the company has been catering, the more likely it will have the experience necessary to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Q: Have you catered a wedding before?
A: Many caterers specialize in wedding catering, but there are some companies that work in all venues. It is important to find a company that knows the ins-and-outs of catering a wedding.
Q: What are your prices?
A: Since you will be spending most of your wedding expenses on the catering, it is important to get a quote that fits within your budget.
Q: How much of the catering will you manage?
A: It is important that the caterer you choose has a team. However, a caterer who is involved in every step of the process is more likely to ensure everything goes as planned.
Q: What non-food items do you provide with your catering?
A: Check to determine whether the company provides plates, utensils, table decorations and other essential dinnerware. Also, ask whether the caterer assists in renting the items it may not provide.
Q: Do you provide your own wait staff?
A: Top caterers will have their own staff wait on the tables, and this should be included in the catering package. Staff employed by the catering company knows how the caterer prefers things and what to do without having to waste time asking.
Q: Will you prepare custom meals?
A: Ask whether you can specify what is included in the meals or how they are prepared. This offers greater flexibility than choosing from the caterer’s menu.
Q: Where do you get your food?
A: Check whether the caterer works with fresh, not frozen, food. Inquire whether the ingredients are acquired locally or shipped. Fresh, local ingredients will ensure that the food is top quality.