How to Choose a Wedding Caterer

It is now time to think about feeding your quests. After all, everyone loves great food! First, you must decide on what type of food you want to serve. You should start selecting your caterer about 10-12 months out from your big day. There are so many caterers in the DFW area that specialize in one type of food as well as ones that offer a variety of food choices. I always suggest doing at least 2 tastings to do a fair comparison. Not to say, however, that you may fall in love with the first tasting! How do you go about selecting a cater to move forward with a tasting? First, request a quote. Compare apples to apples in what is on the menu and the number of guests you will be feeding. Compare the services they offer like serving at the buffet line and bussing at the end of dinner. Do they offer cake cutting services? Do they bring water and tea for your guest to enjoy during dinner? Do they supply dinnerware, whether it is disposable or real? Did you research them and read reviews from past clients? After you have your quotes, the next few items will ensure that you are making the right choices.

First and foremost, require a WRITTEN contract!!

Second, read the contracts!! Ask questions if you are not clear on somethings before you sign. Just because you are promised something in a conversation, if it is not in writing, then it may not happen. Food and labor should be the primary cost items. Look for additional fees, like gratuity already included and administration fees. Can you change the menu, can you reduce the headcount, what is the cancellation policy?

Third, Is the caterer you selected an actual business? Are they operating out of a health inspected commercial kitchen? Hiring a caterer that is working out of their home is not operating their business under the Health Inspection code and will not have insurance. Is the financial savings worth your guest’s health? Food tastings should be offered with every caterer.

These three items are important to ensure that you have a reputable caterer. Now on to the tasting! This is the real test. Many caterers charge for tastings and should be expected. They are taking time to prepare you food, as well as the expense of the food items. Do not rule them out just because they are charging a tasting fee. You must eat, so plan it around a mealtime.

Lastly, once you made your decision, make sure that you let the other caterer that you have chosen another caterer, don’t just ghost them!