Catering to your needs

     A stressful task to say the least, planning a wedding comes with a variety of decisions a couple must make before walking down the aisle. While many of these decisions are behind-the-scenes issues that most of your guests may never even notice, the process of choosing the right caterer is one decision couples must not take lightly, as everyone in attendance will be affected by who you choose to cater your special day.

     Perhaps the main thing a couple must consider when choosing a caterer is their budget. Regardless of the style of your reception, cost will likely be dictated by the type of food you choose to serve your guests. Whether you choose a sit-down dinner or buffet style, the type of food and the number of guests dictate the price. If you’re unsure of what to offer your guests, ask a caterer to offer some suggestions and see if it’s possible to sample a few dishes from the kitchen. Many caterers are glad to do this, and it will give you a better idea of how you’ll be spending your money.

Choosing the right caterer for your wedding is oftentimes an involved and difficult, yet important, decision to make.

     When choosing a caterer, it is also important to check references. You can be referred to a caterer via a friend or coworker who is married, or you can ask any caterer during an interview to supply you with references.

     Before choosing a caterer, it is also a good idea to reach an agreement on all fees, any extra charges or insurance and what the payment schedule will be like. This will more than likely be the most expensive part of the wedding, so having a concrete agreement in writing is the most responsible and safe way to go. Negotiating the price can be a difficult task, since most caterers will provide you with an estimate based on 100 guests, even if you have fewer guests coming. Discuss what the caterer’s fee for fewer guests might be, if there is any at all. Also ask what the fee will be if you need to add more guests after reaching your agreement, or if the fee can be lessened should certain guests decide they are unable to make it. In many cases, after you’ve confirmed your guest list, refunds are not available for guests who don’t show up for the reception and don’t get a plate. And though this is something no couple wants to think about, make sure you have a cancellation policy in writing as well should the caterer need to back out for any reason.

     Another thing to consider is how many catering employees you want at the reception. In general, guests are seated in groups of eight or 10, so having one server for every eight to 10 people is a good way to go. Also make sure you know what you’re paying these servers, and be sure to have that in writing as well. Make sure that the gratuities for the staff and the taxes are included in the price, too. After your wedding is over, the fewer hidden and extra fees, the better.

     When seeking out a caterer, you also want to see what types of decorations the caterer offers, if any. Table settings, floral arrangements for each table, and color schemes should all be open to discussion. Ask if tableware and linens are included as part of the estimate or the agreement. Believe it or not, these can get pretty pricey, so knowing what they are ahead of time can help you avoid any surprises. Some caterers also do not provide a cake with their estimate. Find out if they recommend any vendors and the types of cakes, styles and flavor you may select.

     Before choosing any caterer, remember this aspect of your wedding may be the most expensive and also one of the most visible and memorable decisions you make. Making it carefully and considering all aspects of that decision will help make your wedding day a successful one.

     -- From Metro Newspaper Service