What to look for when choosing a caterer

By Deb Hart

When planning an event large or small, one of the first things you will think about is food. Choosing the right caterer can make all the difference in the success of the event.  As a professional caterer, I’ve heard too many horror stories of food displays crashing during the event or the unforgivable, running out of food. I’ve even heard of caterers who took the clients money and then did not deliver what was expected.  These are a few suggestions to help you in the process of selecting a caterer.  

1.     Budget – Before talking with a caterer, it is always a good idea to have a budget figure or a budget range. When talking with clients, I often find that people who are hiring a caterer for the first time may not think about this.  I tell all of my prospective clients that having a budget or range is a priority. You don’t want your caterer showing you high end items only to find out that they are out of reach due to budget constraints.  Most people will have a budget for everything they do.  Hiring a caterer is no different.  The best way a caterer can give you what will work for you is to know what you are able to spend.  Then they can show you what is available for that price range. 

2.     Read reviews/Get references  – If your caterer is worth their salt, they will have a list of satisfied clients who are willing to give you to truth about what that caterer is capable of delivering.  Many caterers will have testimonials on their website but, it’s always good to make a phone call or two, to check references.  Chances are, you are going to spend a good amount of money and you want to be sure that you are choosing the right person.

3.    Insurance/Licensure – Be sure that your caterer carries liability insurance and that they are licensed.  The Pink Lady Catering is Licensed and Insured.

4.    Get to the details – Some caterers will give you a price, then add service charges, rental charges and gratuities.  Be sure that everything is spelled out on  the contract.  A great way to mess up your event is to find out the day of, that you owe more money than you were expecting.  Verify what is included in the contract like set-up, décor, takedown.  The Pink Lady Catering has no hidden fees. Everything is spelled out on the contract.

5.    Have a tasting – Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s always good to have a taste. Food can sound good on paper but lose something in the actual preparation.  

6.    Customizing a menu – Do your guests have special dietary restrictions? Do you have a theme or do you require a special set-up?  Know what your caterer is capable of.  Many caterers who can set up a beautiful buffet may not be skilled in plated dinner service.  Be sure that the type of service and menu are available. The Pink Lady Catering can design a unique menu.  We do not use “cookie cutter” menus.  Each event has it’s own style and “personality” based on your vision.

7.    Staff – While many restaurants do catering, they may not be equipped to serve for more formal events.  Always inquire about the uniform of the staff.  You wouldn’t want your wait staff in t-shirts for a wedding or formal affair.