Wedding Wednesday

To all those couples and their families out there looking at caterers, How do you know what questions to ask? What are things to look for in a qualified caterer? 

We have put together a list of 15 questions to ask when shopping for caterers. 

15 Questions To Ask A Caterer

1. What kind of food does the caterer specialize in? They should provide you with a sample menu to look at. 

2. Does the caterer provide complimentary tastings of the menu items you are interested in? They should do this upon you hiring them. Schedule a tasting if you have a good vibe!

3. Are cost items depending on the food items, or is there a flat rate per guest? Is there a price sheet that lists food item costs? Make sure you have room in your wedding budget. 

4. How involved is the caterer in your reception? Be sure to have the time line of your wedding to give to them. 

5. Will the caterer provide, tables, chairs, plates, table linens, silverware, salt and pepper shakers, and more? Most likely rentals will be an additional cost. Ask if there is a delivery fee as well. 

6. Who is the main contact? Will the same person you work with be there the day of to oversee the service?

7. Does the caterer handle all table settings? Will they place cards and favors? Be sure and let the caterer know if you would like them to do this. As this is normally not a service that they may do and will need the staff for it. 

8. Will the caterer provide waitstaff? What will they be wearing? Top caterers will provide their own personnel even if there is the site's staff, because they understand the caterer's way of doing business. 

9. Does the caterer of custom menus? Will they be willing to include a recipe that is a family favorite or of sentimental value? 

10. Can they prepare food items for guest's with special dietary needs? Such as gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, even for only a few guests?

11. Where will the food be prepared? Will there be facilities to use on site? 

12. Does the caterer work with fresh food? 

13. Does the caterer have their license? This means that they have met health department standards and have liability insurance. Make sure this includes a liquor license if they are providing a bar. 

14. How will the caterer present the food on the buffet table or for a plated dinner? 

15. Does the caterer also do wedding cakes? Can you use an another source, if desired? Is there a cake-cutting fee? 

This list is just a few questions to help guide you in selecting a caterer that will meet your standards and ideas when planning for your special day. Make sure to meet with a few different caterers and see what they have to offer. Again, make sure that you have the budget for the type of food, rentals, and services you would like.