Having the right food at your wedding is important, so what steps can you take to ensure that people remember your wedding for all the right things and not how bad the food was.
Recommendations
To find a list of potential caterers, ask around. You will find that many good companies and individuals generate most of their business via from word of mouth. If you have been to wedding in the past and loved their food, give them a call. Otherwise you can try asking your florist, wedding planner or any other company that you are dealing with in relation to your wedding.
References
Once you have a few potential candidates, don’t be afraid to ask them for references. Do a background check by contacting three or four past clients and ask for their opinion.
Questions to ask:
- Was the service efficient and professional?
- Was the food delicious?
- Did it arrive hot?
- Was the person you dealt with pleasant and accommodating?
Meeting your Caterer
Once you have a short list, you should arrange to sample some of the chefs recommended dishes. Sometimes this will al be part of the service, but be aware this often involves a charge. From this tasting, you can get a good idea of what the food will taste and importantly look like at your reception. This is important, for example if the starter is meant to be garnished with flowers, you should have them for the tasting. Don’t be afraid to make suggestions or to ask the chef if he can make changes to suit your tastes, remember this is your day.
Wine Tastings
If you want to make sure that nothing is left to chance, organise with your caterer to sample the wines that will be served with the wedding meal. This way if you don’t like the way the a particular wine goes with your food, you can chnge it before it is too late. Our advice is not to get too snooty with wine and no matter what anybody says, you do not need to spend a fortune. Just pick ones that you, your fiancé and your guests will enjoy drinking.
The Contract
If you are spending a lot of money, it is important to get a written contract, don’t settle on a verbal agreement. This way you will be able to make sure that everyone knows the correct date, time, fees and specific menu items. Another important consideration is that it is common that the number of your guests may change even at the last minute, so be sure to agree on a deadline for your final count that you feel comfortable with.
Book your wedding catering 8-12 months in advance or you will have to go with seconds. Most caterers only take one wedding a day. These are the ones that will give you the best service.