Your wedding caterer is an important decision, as food is usually a top priority for most couples. Not to mention, food also takes up a sizable part of your budget. As you start to meet with different caterers, it can feel overwhelming to compare your options. Here’s 5 important questions to ask before you make your final decision!
1. Besides providing the food, what else can I expect you to do?
For example, will they set tables, provide linens, serve food, bring heated trays, etc? Each wedding caterer operates a little bit differently so it’s important to know what they will bring, and what you will need to arrange for.
2. What options do I have for my guests with dietary restrictions?
This early on, you may not know how many of your guests will RSVP with a dietary restriction. Your wedding caterer should hopefully be able to accommodate different diets. If they aren’t able to, ask if they’d be willing to work with you to create a custom dish and if there would be an added charge.
3. What is your average server to guest ratio?
For a sit down meal, you should expect somewhere around 1 server to every 15 – 20 guests, but this ratio could be more like 1 server to every 10 guests, for example, if it’s a really formal meal. You want to make sure your guests are able to eat at the same time, so inquire about hiring extra staff if required.
4. How much do vendor meals cost?
Some of your vendors will require you serve them a hot meal if they work a certain number of hours. Others may leave it up to you but it is always greatly appreciated. Inquire with your wedding caterer about the cost of a vendor meal. You will usually have the option to add your vendors to your overall guest count or feed your team a lower priced meal.
5. How do you tip your staff?
While you may not be thinking about tipping yet, it’s important to know if gratuity is included. If it is not, you should know how your wedding caterer handles a tip. Do they split the amount you give across their entire team? Do you need to account to tip each server and bartender individually?
To see the complete list of questions to ask your wedding caterer AND all your other vendors before you hire them, get access to our Salud Planning Portal by clicking here!
