Choosing Your Caterer

If your wedding reception is at a hotel or banquer facility, then you will most likely not need a caterer. You will rely on their staff to provide the services you need. If you do require outside catering services, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Be aware of your budget at all times - and stick to it!
• Know the approximate number of guest when you talk to cateres.
• Know you style and hire some one who will work hard to achieve it.
• Don't be afraid to challenge a catere's ideas if they contradict yours.
• Review as many menu options as possible that stay within your budget and reflect your theme.
• Get recommendations from friends and recent brides. Also, check the caterer's references.
• Sample the caterer's food and visit an upcoming event.
• Ask questions - especially regarding the services included and details in the contract. Review the contract over and over again.
• Be involved in the choices to the degree that you want. Communicate your expectations and involvement up front.
• How flexible is your caterer? Can he/she trim costs if necessary? How good are they at "crisis management"?
• Shop around and get quotes.
• Make sure your personalities click. You will be spending a lot of time together, perhaps for many months.
• Always remember... this is your day, so get what you want.