Finding a Caterer For Your Wedding Reception
There is so much to consider when planning a wedding. From decorations to invitations, cake flavor and location, sometimes, the catering can get overlooked. However, if you are planning on having a fully catered reception for your guests, then start your search early! The good caterers tend to get booked up months before the peak wedding seasons.
Before investigating caterers, have an idea of the theme and decorations for your wedding in mind. Many times, the type of wedding you have dictates what kind of food should be served.
While many caterers do provide a variety of food options in terms of menu items, most caters specialize in one type of cuisine or another. For example, if you are planning on having a traditional Southern wedding, you would choose a different caterer than if you were planning on having a wedding by the ocean. Thus, it is a good idea to first plan the overall theme and location of the wedding first.
Once you have a good idea of the type of food you intend to have at your wedding, schedule appointments to meet with caterers in your area. Most caterers will allow you to sample the food from their kitchen before you select them.
If you are not allowed to sample the food, then it is a good idea that you choose a company that you are familiar with. There is nothing more disappointing then sitting down to your first meal as a married couple at the wedding reception and realizing that you chose the wrong company.
After you have sampled a variety of caterers' cuisines, then you should have a very good idea of which caterer(s) suit your style and which can be discarded right away. The next decision you have to make involves the pricing.
Caterers offer a variety of pricing schedules. In order to ensure that you do not spend more money than you should, make sure that you review your budget with the caterer well in advance. Be aware of surcharges, such as a delivery charge, a charge for napkins, plates and cutlery, and charges for items such as ice. You will also want to find out if the caterer has a liquor license.
In addition, most catering companies require that you pay another fee if they have a staff on the premises for your event. Rates can be higher than $20/hour for someone to serve food.
Prior to the wedding day, be sure to confirm arrangements with the caterer. The company should have a detailed map and contact information for you, in the event that the deliveryman gets lost on the way. Once it is all set up, enjoy!
