The food you choose to serve at your wedding reception reflects who you are as a couple and as individuals. You get a chance to show your own unique tastes in a super fun way. If you choose a venue that does not provide the food, you will need to find a great caterer. When you start your search, you must consider your budget, the menu style, the amount of food that will be needed, the prep station, and the serving station and more.
With so many caterers out there, finding one that makes your mouth water and your pocketbook happy can be tricky. But don’t worry… below are 22 must-ask questions to have on hand when interviewing a prospective caterer.
Do you have my date open?
Are you licensed and insured?
Can you work within our budget and what can you offer within that budget?
Will I need any permits for my event? If so, will you handle obtaining them?
Do you provide a tasting menu for prospective clients?
Do you offer options for specific dietary restrictions? (for example: vegetarian, vegan kosher and gluten free)
Do you specialize in certain cuisines? If so, what are your signature dishes?
Where do you source your ingredients?
Where will you prepare the food? Are there on-site facilities, or will you need to make arrangements with the venue?
If we use an outside cake designer, do you charge a cake-cutting fee?
Are you licensed to serve/provide the alcohol?What are your speciality drinks?
What is the price per drink as opposed to an open bar?
Does the staff expect tips?
What is the dress code for your staff?
Do you provide appealing decor for the food station and do we have a say in that?
Do you provide the eating utensils, such as china, silverware, cups, glasses, etc.?
Do you provide the linens, such as tablecloths and napkins?
How much time do you require for setting up and breaking down the event? Is there an extra fee for this?
Who will oversee the event on the wedding day?
Do you charge overtime fees if the event runs over?
What happens to the leftovers? Do we have a say in this?
Can you provide references from other clients