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man (and woman) cannot live by bread alone. That adage, and the fact that you and possibly several hundred people will be working up an appetite on your wedding day, is a good reason to pay special attention to choosing the right caterer for your reception.
Finding a caterer that will best convey your exquisite taste can be a challenge, unless you know exactly what you are looking for and how to verify a catering company’s expertise.
An ideal place to begin is by obtaining references from event planners at reception sites, according to local catering professionals. If the site doesn’t handle catering services itself, the facilities will definitely be willing to share its preferred vendor list. The businesses on that list will have specific experience working with the site’s planning team, and will know the ins and outs of putting on a successful function there. These caterers are used repeatedly by the director and have proven track records. Other professionals, such as photographers and bridal consultants, also can offer recommendations.
When interviewing potential firms, one of the first things to establish is the caterer’s attitude. You want people who have a passion for their job—it comes across in your event. Personality also indicates how cooperative a caterer will be with other vendors and how he or she will react if, heaven forbid, an emergency pops up during the reception.
what to look for Check out each firm’s credentials. For example, is the caterer licensed and insured? How long has the company been in business? Are weddings the caterer’s specialty or just a sideline?
After qualifying catering services on the basis of reputation, customer satisfaction and expertise, consider the style each has to offer, and find out if the catering director is willing to help you create a style uniquely your own. This is important. A good caterer will be up-to-date on color and theme options.
to taste or not to taste In addition to creating and expanding upon a particular theme, some caterers offer pre-wedding tastings and consultations. Others do not. Chef/caterers whose services are part of a restaurant may ask a couple to dine with them as a means of displaying their culinary expertise.
Caterers that offer tastings usually provide menu samples for betweentwo and four people, with an extra charge for additional tasters. Parents who plan to pick up the catering tab should attend such gatherings.
questions , questions , questions The consultation is the time to discuss the specifics—tables, chairs, linens, china, centerpieces—and to ask questions. For example, does the company have liability insurance? This ensures you are not dealing with a home-kitchen caterer.
Find out how many events the company books each day. Ask if there is an on-site coordinator. Is this the same person you will be dealing with prior to the event? Where and when do they prepare and cook the food? Freshness and presentation are important to the success of your event.
Although beverages are an essential part of most receptions, Arizona law makes it necessary for area caterers to take a somewhat passive role in providing libations. The law does not allow for a mobile liquor license, meaning that caterers can suggest wine but cannot purchase it.
Freshness and presentation are important to the success of your event
a word or two about budget While there is no set formula for determining what portion of your budget should be dedicated to catering, the pros suggest setting aside between 40 percent and 60 percent, and warn of low estimates. Some caterers may not include the service charge (typically 19–23 percent) or tax with the estimate, say the experts. Expect to pay an advance deposit, often 25 percent, with the final payment due a couple of weeks before the event. While these budget figures may sound hefty, keep in mind that your guests will spend anywhere from two to six hours celebrating at your reception.
what ’s hot and what ’s not This is a great time to plan a reception. The choices in party fare range from bold and adventuresome to quirky and oh-so-creative.
For example, martini-flavored renditions remain a huge party hit; cigar and cappuccino bars are still very popular, but they can come with a surprising twist. Martini glasses today also are used to serve up scrumptious edible delights in lieu of gin, and spoons deliver delectable tidbits. Also in demand are Greek, Mediterranean and Thai dishes.
Old-style buffets have been replaced by smaller, more intimate “serving stations” where the dishes are often cooked to order. Other events feature an evening or afternoon of tapas, appetizers or passed dishes that allow the guests to mingle while getting their fill of delicious tidbits.
Aside from traditional wedding cakes, chocolate fountains and fondues are a big hit for many guests, as are—and this should be no surprise—Atkins-style low-carb specialities.
book early When booking a caterer, advanced planning is vital. Contract with your caterer as soon as you book your reception site. Many book 12 to 18 months ahead of time. Choosing the right company at the right time will help ensure your wedding celebration will be all that you wish. |
