Event Planning: 5 Questions to Ask a Potential Wedding Caterer

Did you know that the average wedding catering cost is around $9,170 or $70 a person? That’s a significant investment, so it’s important to make sure that you are getting good value for your money. Plus, you want the food on the big day to be delicious and memorable. 

Are you starting the exciting step of planning for your upcoming wedding? Finding the perfect caterer is an essential part of event planning. Check out these top five questions to ask your potential wedding caterer during the hiring process.

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

The first thing to ask a caterer is how much experience they have. Don’t be shy about requesting to see a portfolio of their work, and read references and online reviews from past jobs. It’s better to trust a professional with ample experience in the business to cater for your wedding since it’s such an important day.  

2. What Is Included?

Another key point that many couples forget to inquire about is rentals. Talk to your caterer and establish what rentals are included, like serving dishes, linen, silverware, etc. Sometimes they will, and other times the venue will provide you with those. 

3. Are You Licensed and Insured?

When you plan an event it’s important to choose a company that is reputable, but that also has all of the necessary licenses. If they are serving alcohol, they will need a liquor license. And make sure that they have liability insurance in case something goes wrong. 

4. How Much of the Event Planning and Set-Up Do You Handle? 

One of the top planning tips for weddings is to have clear communication about your vendors’ roles on the big day. Some caterers will want to give their input on the event planning since the food preparation and service must be timed carefully. Also, clarify how much of the set-up they handle for service and how many staff members they will have that day. 

5. Do You Do Custom Menus?

You want the meal on your wedding day to be memorable (in a good way!) so take the time to make a decision about what kind of cuisine to have. Explore different types of catering for your wedding so that you find the perfect match for your big day. And don’t forget to pick a type, from buffet to traditional plated to family-style service. 

Find the Best Caterer for Your Wedding

Now that you’ve learned all about the top questions in event planning to ask your potential wedding caterers, you can feel more confident about making a choice. Do your research about the companies to check on their experience and reviews, and when you meet with candidates ask to see photos of some of their past work. Ask for a tasting of the menu before making a booking, and have good communication in advance about staffing and other details before the big day. 

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