Using a caterer?? Come in! HELP!

Re: Using a caterer?? Come in! HELP!

• Sue-n-Kevin member

  

  April 2012

  What we did when comparing caterers (as we brought our own into a venue that did not supply it) was decide upon the menu we wanted, period. Most caterers worth their salt can make anything, so if you know what you want to offer your guests for the wedding meal, then ask each caterer what the price is for your X number of guests. We didn't make our final decision until we had tastings at the top 2.
  
  You don't have to go off their pre-planned cookie-cutter menu, unless they refuse to be accomodating.

  Wedding Website and Bio

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• cwaggoner07 member

  

  April 2012

  Also ask about the price for their staff, for cleanup, and if bar service is included/ how much?
  Our caterer is providing staff for the food and the bar, but we are able to provide our own alcohol.
  Some caterers will charge for plates and utensils, and some will not.
  Get a detailed quote to see what each one includes, and what they can offer. For example, my caterer can provide tables and linens. I already have that taken care of, but it's nice to know what they have, especially if I need something last minute.

  It was a fairytale.

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• elliemonster2012 member

  

  April 2012

  Thanks ladies!
  
  Wish me luck!

  
  
  ***Sept 2013 Jan. Siggy Challange - Bouquet Inspiration!***
  

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• ChristineNB

  

  April 2012

  Ask if they can provide tables/chairs and linens to be rented if you need.  Mine does and it is great having that convience.
  
   Also, if you anticipate having any kosher/vegetarian/gluten free/special diets at the reception ask the caterer how they would accomodate that. 
  
  Ask if the caterer will do any of the set up for the reception area.  My caterer will set up tables, puts centerpieces on, and cleans up room after.
  

  

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• librababy

  

  April 2012

  I called a lot of caterers. What I was looking for what the best price (i.e CHEAPEST) and wat was included in that price.

  
  

  The caterer I have a tasting with in 2 weeks, is my favorite so far because they provide table linens in their price. The menu consists of an appetizer (a cream based soup), main entree (I chose the stuffed chicken, rice, salad and bread). They are willing to do a fish dish for FI, since he is the only person at the wedding that does not eat chicken. She seems nice enough and very accomodating. 

  
  

  What was interesting to me was how she was so concerned about how the food looked asthetically (like trying to match the rice with the stuffing: we chose a spinach stuffing), so she suggested rice with herbs instead of rice with sweet corn so it would coordinate LOL). IF we go with them, i will see what else she offers (like how they handle clean-up). She already told me that if there is any left over food, they package it up for us to take home.

  

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• librababy

  

  April 2012

  Wanted to add that she also has tables, so she decided to bring along 2 of her own tables for the buffet. Plus, she provides the food per her expense for her staff. AND she included drinks (juices) and ice for the entire reception, unlimited. Some of the other caterers I called only offered 2-3 drinks per guest.

  

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• elliemonster2012 member

  

  April 2012

  That is something I didn't think of....drinks.  We can bring in our own liquor but I'll have to ask about mixers.  I know garnishes and ice are estimated in our quotes but not other drinks!
  
  Thanks ladies!!

  
  
  ***Sept 2013 Jan. Siggy Challange - Bouquet Inspiration!***
  

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