It's Chow time! Come and Get it!!
Sit tight and be cool because this will be tasty. Ok...choosing a good caterer is, as you know, essential to having a wedding that your guests are sure to enjoy. Besides the open bar and the single bridesmaids this a key factor that can make or break any wedding? Once your bride has decided the location, type of reception and venue she wants (formal sit-down, buffet, or cocktail dinner with hors d'oeuvres etc.) you both can begin the search process to find the caterer who best fits your style AND your budget.
Not having good food for the bash is like trying to make it to the 7th inning stretch without a beer you can't ever let that happen - You need your fuel! What's more is that there are hidden bonuses in helping plan out the menu for your reception. Not only will your girl be thrilled that you are actually there to help, but you also get to enjoy the "tastings"! This is when different caterers throw out all of their best tricks trying to get you to go with them. It's kind of like the draft, but with food, awesome right?!
Once you two have decided on your short list, there are a few questions that you need to ask before making the final call.
Considerations:
1. Is the caterer a dual-threat quarterback or are they a traditional pocket passer? Check their specialties in both types of food and service for different options. Have them provide you with a sample menu (and make them put the prices in writing).
2. Check out the price list and get every detail down in black and white. You don't want to get down to the wire and find your catering contract doesn't include forks or any other essential items.
3. Can the caterer arrange for a tasting of selected foods prior to you hiring them (never hurts to ask)? If the caterer you're interested in will not agree to a tasting prior to you signing a contract then make sure you and your bride schedule a tasting as soon as you do sign on the dotted line. Tasting the food PRIOR to the event will ensure everyone is playing from the same rule book.
4. Will the caterer provide a wait staff? What is the staff to guest ratio? Ask if they provide a wait staff or if you have to line that up separately. If they do then you need to know that the staff to guest ratio is adequate enough.
5. Who is manning the pumps??? Find out who hosts the all-important bar. Some caterers will do the honors, while other times it has to be set up through the venue. If your venue allows for outside beverages to be brought in (especially alcohol) then definitely compare pricing between your caterer and your reception/event venue. And ask about corkage fees, cutting fees, etc. you may have more than one option just takes a little research on your part to find the best plan that works for your event.
6. Most importantly ask to speak to references and view their event portfolio. Here you will be able to see pictures of previous weddings and other events to make sure their style matches yours.
Key Tip:
Ask around and find out if there are any allergy and/or dietary restrictions that your guests may have, unless you want Uncle Joe swelling up like a blowfish after eating the pork rib satays with the peanut sauce you just had to have.
If you're lucky enough to be involved in this part of the process you want to go into the process with a little bit of game. Just know when you hire a caterer, you want to meet with that person well before your event takes place and make sure you and your bride are in sync. If she feels comfortable with the caterer then great, you will have one less monkey on your back throughout this whole process.
