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Advice On Choosing A Great Caterer

First things first, most caterers advise that it’s much wiser to choose and book your event venue before you choose your caterer. If that’s been taken care of here are some tips on choosing a caterer to help make your event a success.

Of all the costs associated with your event, the caterer is probably going to be the most expensive. Spend some time researching your prospective caterer and you will be much more happy.

Caterers.ca is a terrific place to start when searching for a quality catering company in your area. Send out a Quick Quote to the caterers you find appealing and make sure to ask them some questions in the details box.

Find out how long the caterer has been in business. A caterer with more than five years experience ensures that they will know what they can and cannot accomplish for you. A caterer with less experience may save you money but could be too eager to take a job and bite off more than they can chew leaving your event less than appetizing.

A good caterer will value photos of their events and you should always ask to see what they have done. Their appreciation of good photos will prove to you that they understand people eat with their eyes not just their mouths. The photos will also give you a better understanding of the caterer’s ability to create appetizing dishes and table settings.

Ask the caterer that you are deciding on the following questions. They should be able to help you better determine if they are the right catering company to work with.

1. Do you have all the appropriate licenses to run a catering company?


2. Do you specialize in a particular style of food?


3. Would you be able to accommodate a special/family recipe in to the menu?


4. Based on the event’s style what would you suggest we serve? What would it cost per person?


5. During the day of the event how many other events will your company be working on?


6. How does a sit down meal compare in a cost per person to a buffet?


7. Can you clarify if the price per person covers just the meal or does it cover other charges such as staff, equipment rentals, linens, etc.?


8. What does the service costs include and what are additional?


9. Does your company provide linens, plates, silverware, glasses, tables, linens, and chairs? What colours and styles do I have to choose from?


10. If I handled this myself would it cost less?


11. Who will be the person handling my event and when can I meet them?


12. How long will it take your staff to set up and clean up?


13. Do you charge for beverage service?


14. If we provide our own alcohol do you charge a corkage fee?


15. Will you provide food for the photographer, musicians, dj, videographer? Will it cost extra?


16. Will you provide a wedding cake? If we provide them do you charge a cutting and serving fee?


17. Will you provide childrens meals for those that attend? Is there a discounted charge on the meal?


18. May I see your standard contract?


19. How much of a deposit do you need to hold the date? When do you need the remainder?


20. Can I speak to former clients for references?

After the questions have beem answered you should have a better idea if this is the right caterer for you to use for your event. Ask the caterer to write up an outline of your conversation and include menu ideas and the costs. Good luck and bon appétit.