Songs have been written about it and we spend most of our day thinking about it: food. Feeding yourself is okay, and family can be done at a stretch. But for big groups, leave it to the professionals.
Finding the perfect caterer for your event can be so much fun; getting to know new faces and no doubt a few taste sessions! PenniBlack have put together the top 5 questions to ask a caterer before contracting them for your event.
Before you fall in love with a catering company, check that they have availability when you are holding your event. If they aren’t available, do not even considering looking at any example menus or chatting with members of the team. Simply check them off your list and move on. Nothing is more painful than the thing we cannot have!
If a catering company is available, ask if they will be working any other events that same day. If they are serving a 3-course sit down meal at a charity gala, how will they handle the workload for your event? Will some of the food be prepared beforehand? Will staff be scaled down? Will elements be outsourced?
There is a lot to choose from when it comes to the main event, from grand banquets to simple cold spread buffets. Whatever you decide upon, it is in the best interests of your purse strings to see mocked-up menus with prices per head.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with your caterer and, if you have your heart set on one that is coming in at a little too expensive, discuss ways to reduce costs with them.
It isn’t just enough to have a lone vegetarian option on the menu. Vegetarianism and veganism are now popular life choices. For those living with allergies, lactose intolerance and coeliac disease, having options isn’t a choice, it is a must. It is important to have a menu that takes into consideration everyone’s unique needs.
Reputable caterers will be able to provide a full ingredient breakdown for all menu items and this should be accessible if those with special dietary requirements ask.
Regardless as to whether a company was recommended to you or not, get your hands on their testimonials. Understandably they will give you’re their most shining references, but they are still key sources of information regarding food quality, staff friendliness, and overall execution.
If you notice that the caterer tends to service mostly weddings, enquire as to whether they handle many events of your nature. Be nosey, it will give you peace of mind and ensure the company you select is the best suited to your event.
If you are torn between companies, the question above can really help make decisions! If one of your top contenders has catered at your venue before, they will be au fait with the layout, entrances, exits and kitchen space. They will also be able to give the inside scoop on any potential problems on the catering side and help find a solution.
Many caterers, however, will be more than happy to visit your chosen venue to get a lay of the land. In other scenarios, food is prepared in the company’s own kitchens. If you want peace of mind regarding hygiene and conditions, all companies should let you tour their facilities.