Wedding reception reality check: maybe even more than the music and dancing, your guests will remember the food that's served. And make no mistake, that's what will get asked about when guests return home and spread the word (read: gossip) about your wedding celebrations.
Obviously, it's crucial to find a good caterer. Presented below are five easy steps to help you with just exactly that.
1. License to cook
Many caterers operate out of their own homes, "flying beneath the radar" of health inspection regulations that accompany professional business licenses. While many of these "at home" caterers offer some of the best food around, some don't, and it's important to know what you're getting. So ask about licenses and liability insurance before choosing who gets to serve the wedding feast.
2. Get everything in writing
The problem with nailing down a catering estimate is that so much can be left to chance: extra food left over, costs of cooking supplies, transportation costs, et cetera. Frankly, that's the caterer's problem, not yours. As the customer, you're entitled to an ironclad estimate of the total bill per guest, including incidentals. A serious, professional contractor will have no problem accommodating this request. And for the ones who don't, well… what does that tell you?
3. Sample the final product
Good caterers will have samples or smaller portions for you to savor when shopping around. This is also the right time to ask about "package" meals, which include a set entrée and side items, or if you can build your own meal a la carte. The a la carte option might be more expensive, however.
4. Make arrangements for the wait staff and for leftovers
Ask the potential caterers what they do with leftover food and how much you're charged for cleanup. You may wish to donate the unused, uneaten leftover food to a local charity or shelter. If your catering package includes wait staff, find out if any additional tipping is included in the total price.
5. Secure liquor and beverage service
See if your caterer also includes liquor and beverage service, of if those must be provided to the reception separately. If your venue doesn't offer it, they may recommend a local merchant who will deliver directly to the venue before the reception. Follow the same steps with the liquor vendor that you do the potential caterers.
My Wedding Favors carries a complete selection of elegant wedding favors that perfectly accent every wedding reception place setting. We also carry many favors designed to suit a particular theme or motif, as well as personalized wedding favors, too. Visit them online at http://www.myweddingfavors.com.
About the Author: Michael Kabel is a Senior Writer at My Wedding Favors at http://www.myweddingfavors.com. Visit My Wedding favors for wedding articles, bridal tips and much more including hundreds of wedding gift ideas, bridal shower favors, groomsmen gifts and much more.
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