Choosing a Caterer

Here you are planning your wedding reception, and after the ceremony, it is the most important part of the day. You have never given a thought to how that appetizer got on that tray that was being passed by a server that was offered to you. To put you at ease, most people who need catering have never purchased catering before. Visualize what you both want for your reception. What do you see, how does the event look in your mind? This day is all about the two of you and should reflect your personalities.

Location
Youre going to have an event, a special occasion where the memories will last a lifetime. Where is this going to be held? Should you have it at your familys home in the backyard? Can you see the tent with chandeliers hanging from the center, the linens draped to the floor, elegant centerpieces and your guest dining on a 7-course meal? Or should you hold your event at another location, possibly a beautiful room overlooking a lake? You may not even be sure. Your location can determine the style of service and the price. There are just as many style of catering as there are events.

The type of Catering you will need to consider is On-Premise or Off-Premise

What is Off Premise Catering?
Off-Premise catering is when the event is held at a location such as a banquet center, private home, historical sites, yacht clubs and other locations. The food is brought to the facility, as well as quite possibly the linen, china dishes, utensils and, well, everything if necessary. Sounds like a lot of work for you? Not at all! A professional catering company will arrange and take care of all the necessary items.

What is On-Premise Catering?
On Premise Catering is when the event is held at the caterers location. This could be a banquet facility, restaurant, or hotel. Everything is usually handled by the caterer and you certainly can work with the caterer to personalize your event by bringing in your own type of music, dcor and other services. The caterer should have a list of recommended vendors if you are not sure where to start. Once that is in place you can just show up and have a good time!

Selecting the Caterer
You dont do this for a living and it can be overwhelming, time consuming just trying to sort everything that is out there. A professional caterer understands this and will help guide you to making the right decision and choices for your special occasion. They are there to make your event memorable and stress-free as possible. To serve you better, a professional caterer can coordinate all the necessary items that are needed to host the event, linen, china, music, floral dcor, alcoholic beverages, cappuccino bars and more.

Use an established caterer, a company who has proven they are reliable and professional. They will have a staff that is experienced; a proven track record of past events it will be higher to keep up with their recognized reputation and standards that their customers expect.

Many newer catering companies will be learning as they go, and you should be willing to risk the increase likelihood of problem(s) in exchange for a lesser price.

Most importantly, make sure the caterer you hire is licensed and insured for your piece of mind and protection.

Whatever your needs are, simple to elegant, let a catering professional guide you in planning your next event.

Valerie Vollmer has been an off premise caterer for over 20 years. Is one of only 175 CPCE (Certified Professional Catering Executives) in the US. National Association of Catering Executives - 2nd National Vice President