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How to Evaluate a Caterer |
How to Evaluate a CatererNow that you've narrowed down your choice of caterers and created your short-list, here are some basic questions to ask to help you make a decision as you evaluate each caterer. - Do you offer different types of meal service (sit-down, buffet, etc)? If so, what are the different prices for different levels of service?
- What meal options do you offer? Do you have a specialty?
- Do you have liability insurance in case of an accident?
- If liquor is served, do you have a liquor license, and liability insurance covering the service of alcohol?
- What is your ratio of guests to service staff?
- How will your staff dress?
- Are meals provided for other service providers (DJ, band, photographer, etc)?
- Some of my guests have special dietary needs - how will you handle that?
- Do you offer hors deuvres? Will your staff serve them or will they be availiable buffet-style?
- Is there a cake cutting fee? If so, how is it calculated? Is there a time during the reception we should plan to cut the cake so you have adequate staff available?
- Do you also provide a dessert selection for guests who don't want cake?
- Does your fee include tips for your staff?
- What do you do with leftover food? Can it be donated to charity? Do you coordinate the donation with the charity?
- Can I inspect linens, dinnerware, etc ahead of time?
- What is my cut-off date for letting you know the exact number of guests?
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