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The Catering

After your ceremony, the wedding reception is the most important part of the day. Visualize your reception; how does the event look in you mind? This day is about the two of you and should reflect your personalities.

At least 6 months to one year before your wedding, begin meeting with caterers. Visit several to get a good idea of what your choices can be. Before you meet, think about a few things the caterer will ask.
1. How many people are you thinking of inviting?
2. What type of cuisine and style of service would you like to have?
3. What time of the day are you considering?
4. What type of beverages would you like to serve?
5. What is your budget?

Review the caterer's menus and portfolio; note the type of events they have done in the past. What stands out when you're looking at these photos? Is this important to you on your wedding day? Are they willing to customize the menu to reflect your taste? Ask about the caterer's in-house wedding specialist. Is your wedding the only event the wedding specialist is responsible for that day? How many servers will the caterer assign? How are they trained? Have the caterer create a proposal for your event based on what you see in their menu or what you would like them to do for you. When comparing caterers make sure you are comparing equal menus. One caterer is offering you lobster and full service and the other strip steak and disposable plates and napkins. Visit the venue of your choice on a night the caterer is selected for the event to see what the caterer's capabilities are in person. (Ask to visit with the caterer's representative 1 hour before guests arrive.)

Also, insist that the caterer visit the venue with you to discuss rentals needed, prior to submitting the proposal. The catering company you choose should be ready to help you throughout your planning months; it can be overwhelming and time consuming trying to sort everything that is out there. They understand you need guidance to help make the right decisions and choices for your special occasion, and they are there to be of service in making your event memorable and stress free. The perfect wedding caterer brings professionalism to your event. Plan in advance, so that you can enjoy YOUR DAY.

Catering Checklist
Decide on the type of cuisine and general style of catering you would like for your wedding rehearsal and reception. Research to find the caterers in your area who have the capability of delivering your ideal wedding events. Plan a budget, listen to referrals, and begin the delicious process of finding the perfect caterer.

Visit as many as 3 caterers: if you have already selected a venue find out whether you may use the caterer of your choice or if the venue uses a specific individual or list of caterers.

Check the credentials: does your caterer have a Certified Professional Catering Executive [CPCE] designation? Is your caterer a member of the National Association of Catering Executives [NACE]? The additional training and professionalism earned will serve you, the client, well. Were the catering references exceptional? What did the bridal references say about the caterer, the cuisine, the service, and the presentation?

Review the portfolio: spend some time reviewing the photo archive of the past events. You will learn a great deal about a caterer's capabilities visually.

Inquire about customizing: will your caterer work with you to design a menu that represents you style and remains within you budget? Ask for an inclusive proposal; do not be afraid to ask if you can change, add, or delete an item.

Taste the possibilities: when you have narrowed your catering search to the final one or two candidates, arrange a tasting session.

Review your search: how flexible, reliable, responsive, enthusiastic and fun if your caterer? How innovative were their ideas about menu choices and presentation style? Did you feel you could trust them with your special day?

Sign the contract: on the day of the tasting session, when you are comfortable with the budget, the proposal and the cuisine, sign a contract and make the initial deposit. You might want to establish a payment plan. The caterer will have the date your final head count is needed and when your final balance is due. Payment in full is due before the event. You've found the wedding caterer for your special day.

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The Catering