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There are many factors that go into choosing a catering company, but in the end it comes down to how you work with the catering company contact, their food, their service, and their price.
Things to have in place before you start looking for a caterer:
- What the event is
- When and where the event will be
- How many will be attending
- How much you want to spend on the event
Make a list of potential caterers:
- If you've decided on one particular type of food (ie, clambake, bbq, etc) narrow your search to only catering companies who handle that type.
- Do you know anyone who hosted a similar event where you loved the service and the food? If you do, find out who the catering company was.
- Check the internet - do a Google search on caterers in your area, or check web directories.
- Check phone directories (not every caterer has a website)
Call the catering companies on your list:
- Give them the information about your event and find out if what it is matches with what they do.
- Ask for references.
- Ask for an estimate.
- If they sound good, scheule a tasting.
- When you've chosen a caterer, finalize the estimate in writing into a contract. Make sure it includes all the things you will be charged for.
Wiki User
∙ 11y ago
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoA catering company can be a lifesaver when you need to feed lots of hungry people for an event or special occasion. However, it is essential to not only hire the right company for the job, but to save as much money as possible.
The steps to successfully hiring a catering company are:
1. Check Local Listings & Restaurants
Look in your local phone directory for catering companies that are suitable for your event or occasion. No catering company is ever ’too busy’ for new work. You’ll often be surprised at the quality of food prepared by local restaurants who provide catering services for special occasions.
2. Get 3-4 Written Quotes
One of the best ways to weigh the cost factor is to get written quotes for your catering needs. Never accept a verbally quoted catering job, because no one loves a surprise rise in the total bill on the day of your event. By accepting the quote in advance, you’ll know exactly what to pay.
3. Check References & Licenses
Always ask for references from the catering company after they quote your party or event. It’s always a good idea to ask for references for work completed for a similar event. Always check the food handler license of a company by calling your local department of health.
4. Ask For Samples
Any professional catering company will be happy to provide samples of their menu for tasting purposes. Don’t wait until the day of your event to find out that the p%C3%A2te is awful.
5. Get a Written Contract
In a written contract, you’ll always know exactly how your money will be spent. All terms are negotiable and the client always has the upper hand. It’s never too late to haggle for a better bargain or freebies!
6. Confirm Schedule and Time
To avoid unforeseen delays or issues, it’s always best to confirm the future schedule of the catering company. It’s extremely important to confirm the date of your special event or occasion after the contract is signed. If the catering company needs to arrive 2 hours early, you can be prepared for it in advance.
Following these steps can make your catering experience enjoyable and memorable.
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoWhen it’s party time, catering that party becomes a challenge especially when finding one that fits your needs. Catering services are an integral component of any party and has from time played a significant role as a societal service provider.
When hiring a catering service, you need to keep many things in mind to prevent your party or event from going belly-up. A good catering service does not only provide mouth watering dishes, they provide exceptional services and are well worth the money you will pay. Though the menu is the most crucial component other aspects such as the cutlery and food decoration are equally important. When the two aren’t integrated and aren’t working together there is always that chance of feeling disappointed.
Catering services are found in every city. Most caterers have packages for different occasions. The services of a caterer could be used for your child’s birthday party, wedding receptions, or an office function. A good catering service will treat different events as unique and will individualize it to meet your needs; that is what sets one apart over the others.
Any service involves an expense. Hiring a caterer is one of those services. What a party could cost depends on the menu and the type of services one wants. When hiring a catering service, you should draw up a plan and discuss them with the caterer; you should have a general idea of the number of people who will be attending. This is where things can become difficult as often times either fewer people will attend or more will attend compared to what you quoted the caterer. A good catering service takes this into account and generally has enough food for a 20% extra attendance.
Good caterers don’t charge extra for such services. Analyze the menu carefully and choose things on the menu that can be refrigerated and eaten as leftovers for a few days. If there are drinks leftover, it doesn’t typically pose a problem as most catering services will take the unused drinks and will provide a refund as they can be stored for later use.
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoThere are lots of catering companies out there, but finding the right one can be tricky. However, you can easily find the best one for your event if you know what to look for.
Everyone has been to a catered event. Some were remarkable; others were not. Think of an example of each. What made the remarkable events remarkable? The quality of the food is extremely important, but if you truly considered the event to be remarkable, there was probably more than just good food that gave you the positive impression. Usually a catering company provides food, beverages, linens, silverware, dishes, centerpieces, waitstaff, set-up and clean-up services. It’s imperative that the catering company’s offerings match the venue or style of the event. For example, the services provided for a high school football team’s awards banquet should differ starkly from a ladies’ tea. Of course, the food should always be served warm, fresh, and delicious. Regardless of the actual event, a catered event is always a special event, and should leave the guests feeling as if they were part of such.
Take a minute to reflect on a catered event that you were not impressed with. How was it different from the remarkable event? Poor food quality or selection will immediately cause guests to turn their nose up to your event. The second largest contributor to a poor experience is rude waitstaff. If workers who are not a match for the type of event you’re hosting staff the catering company, it could be a disaster.
Interview several catering companies before hiring one. Ask for references. Make certain that the catering company has experience with events similar to yours and be clear about your expectations. Be sure to request menus and taste samples of the food they will be serving. Before committing to one company, ask them how they will be available to help you should you need their assistance during the event. The owners operate many smaller catering companies. This often suggests a higher quality of service, as the owner will be on premises during the event. Others find the experience of the larger companies appealing.
Whatever your taste, finding the right catering company will make your event a smash.
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoIf you have ever had to plan an event for any sized group of people that included some sort of meal, chances are you have had to select from one of the many catering service companies in a specific area. The quality of food and the manner in which it is served can make or break any event from a wedding or family gathering to a business meeting. Therefore, finding the right catering service is critical to pulling off an effective or entertaining event. The importance of presenting a professional good tasting meal to guests or coworkers can never be underestimated.
In many cases, the location of the event or meeting will dictate what catering service is to be used. Many hotels or meeting space rental locations stipulate that customers use their in house catering or banquet kitchens. However, some locations will allow other caterers to supply food and beverage to an even for a fee. Since the fee can be quite high, testing and sampling any menu choices is often a key step in the selection process. Many caterers or chefs will be able to recommend a suitable menu for traditional events. As a general rule the larger the amount of people, the simpler the menu should become. Keeping food selections basic allows for effective service and eliminates any potential cook to order problems.
In short, before selecting a catering service or menu, inquire as to the meeting or event locations specific rules. Once those rules are recognized, begin interviewing caterers for samples and menu choices. Once a few catering options have been explored and their products sampled, select the one that has the greatest appeal. Remember to ask for references, and ask those references about set up and tear down times as well as quality of service. By making the selection a process of elimination, the best catering service for the job will be revealed. Once an agreement has been reached, continue to monitor the contracted service on a regular schedule just to be sure no conflicts arise or prices get altered. Staying as informed as possible will assure a smooth event with a great menu and fantastic service.
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How to Find the Right Catering Company?
People choose to use catering companies for a number of events, including weddings, receptions, birthdays, holidays, meetings, or other celebrations. Finding the right catering company to suit your needs can be difficult. By shopping around and asking questions, you will be able to find just the right catering company for your event. There are several things to consider when looking for a catering company, including price range, type of food served, and quality of services. This article will help you decide which type of catering company is right for your event. For smaller events, such as company meetings or family gatherings, there are several options. Some catering companies have a minimum order required for delivery. Others charge no delivery fees. Always consider these options before placing your order. Depending on the number of people attending your event, it may be simpler and less expensive to pick up your order. Another important factor to consider is the type of food offered by a catering company. There are many different kinds of caterers, including deli-style catering, bar-b-que, or finer cuisine. Be sure that the kind of food offered by your caterer is appropriate for the event. If it is an informal event, sandwiches or bar-b-que may be better than full-scale restaurant orders. The more formal the event, the more formal the caterer should be. Often, wedding receptions that take place in the evening have more elaborate caterers. This may sometimes require waitstaff to serve your guests throughout the meal. Remember that if you have to hire servers to work during your event, you will have to pay extra for their salary and tips. Wedding receptions at non-meal times during the day usually only serve small snacks like cookies, punch, crackers, or small sandwiches. You can also choose to serve alcohol at your event, although this may add extra expenses. Most choose to provide an open bar for guests, but this can be quite costly since the tab goes to the person hosting the event. If you do not wish to have an open bar, it is always acceptable to have guests pay for their own alcoholic beverages.
How to choose catering services?
When planning a new event, regardless of the size of the event, selecting the right catering services is one of the most important decisions to make. A good catering service will help you plan a course menu, provide you with on site assistance, and help you run the event efficiently. Knowing how to choose the right catering service is quite important. The first step in knowing how to choose the right catering service is figuring out what you need out of the catering service. Aspects to consider are how many guests you will be entertaining, what you want to provide your guests in the form of food, drinks, and service, and what additional equipment you will need for the event. Additional equipment could include tables, chairs, a dance floor, or an outside tent. Regardless of your needs, a catering service will be able to help you. Once you have a better understanding of your needs, it is now time to research catering services. While you could spend hours researching catering services online, nothing beats an informal referral from a friend or family member. Furthermore, if you have ever been to a event that you felt was well catered, you should attempt to contact that catering service provider that was used. You should select at least two or three catering services providers to look further into. After making a list of two or three catering services providers, you should contact each of the catering services individually. Be sure to discuss with them all of the services that you will need provided. The catering service will be able to determine the scope of your project and give you an estimate of how much the event will cost. Once you have received estimates from multiple catering services, you should be able to select the best deal or further negotiate a price. Once you have settled on a price with the catering service, you will work with them to fully detail the specifics of your event. The details of the event will include picking a specific course menu and outlining how many staff members the catering service will need to provide at the event.
What exactly is a catering truck?
A catering truck can either be a truck that belongs to a catering company and they take it to events and do catering. The other thing it might be is a food truck that drives around and cooks food in the truck and then people come up to it and order right there. Kind of like a hot dog cart.
How To Determine if a Catering Service is up to the Challenge?
Many of the catering service companies that advertise in the phone book are relatively small operations that consist of one or two individuals, so it only stands to reason that there are going to be some situations in which they will not be able to keep up or provide enough food. If a consumer is planning a large event, such as a wedding or reception, it is necessary to determine if a particular catering service is going to be up to the challenge before entering into a contract or hiring them. The number of staff that a catering service has on the payroll is an important question to ask, and the source of a company’s contract labor should be questioned as well. Many catering companies will use an employment agency to provide banquet servers or kitchen staff, but many consumers worry about the qualifications of such workers. If a catering service routinely uses the same contract labor source and is pleased with the results, a consumer can feel better about hiring such individuals to work at their event. The kitchen capabilities of a catering service is also necessary to discover in the midst of the selection process. While some banquet halls and facilities do have kitchens on the premises that can be used, most events will entail the catering service delivering all of the food via van or truck. An exceptionally large event may require multiple trips if the catering company has a smaller capacity. A small kitchen may also make it difficult to produce and cook enough food in a reasonable amount of time. Even the smallest of catering services could possibly provide exceptional food and deliver results without a hitch, so it is often a good idea to check with past clients. References or testimonials can be instrumental in picking the right catering service. Talking to the facility or banquet hall can also be an excellent source of information that could prove to be very useful. Finding out at the actual event that a catering service is not going to be able to deliver is simply unacceptable and is too late, so consumers should heed the above advice and determine if the company can handle their specific needs or requests.
How to Find the Right Catering Service?
Whether you are planning for a large function, a wedding, special event, corporate function or a get-together at home, you may need to hire a catering service to provide the food. However, finding the right catering service can sometimes be a challenge with so many options from which to choose. Notwithstanding, there are some guidelines you should consider when selecting the right catering service for your function. As soon as you have confirmed your location for the function, you should start searching for a catering service. Get recommendations from family, friends and associates who have used the catering services in the past and search online reviews as well. Decide on the type of food service required, such as buffet, sit-down, boxed or drop off and have an idea of the date, number of persons to be served and the type of menu in which you are interested. You should also have a budget in mind and be prepared to make some adjustments. Once you have decided on a few catering service companies, there are some questions you should ask them to help you in making a final decision. •Is the date available for the event? •What type of cuisine do they offer and do they offer taste tests? •Can the catering company provide some references? •What options do they have for the menu including appetizers, desserts and beverages and can they provide foods, which are not on the menu? •What are the costs and are gratuities included, or extra costs for setting up and clean-up? •Do they provide catering service for themed events? •What type of service, including waitresses, servers, will they provide and how are the workers attired? •Can the catering service provide silverware, glassware, china and linen? •How much time will they need to set up and will they clean up after the function? •Do they require a deposit and when will they need the balance to be paid? •When will they need the final headcount for the event? •Is there a cancellation policy and what is the policy regarding leftover food? •How do they handle unexpected situations? •Do they provide a contract and what are the requirements?
How To Select the Right Catering Company?
Selecting a caterer can be a mind boggling experience if the proper research has not been done up front. As with any company, there are good caterers and not-so-good caterers. Most major cities are swimming with choices and it is difficult to find the right choice for the right price. When selecting a caterer for a specific event, there are a few details to keep in mind. Shop Around- The worst thing a prospective event planner can do is pick a name out of the phone book or off of the internet because they have a pretty ad. Much research is necessary when selecting the right catering company. Word-of-mouth is the number one marketing tool for the entire food service industry. A great catering company is no different than a great restaurant. People talk and someone searching for a company should listen carefully. Ask co-workers, relatives, and neighbors before making any decisions. The internet is a great tool to find a caterer as well, but beware of fly-by-night companies. Ask for Portfolios- Most successful catering businesses have a portfolio available to potential customers that give specific examples of past events hosted. A good company will encourage browsing through their portfolio. Remember, if they are not proud and willing to show you their past services, there is probably a reason they are keeping it a secret. Make sure that the company can fit your needs. Great companies will be willing to work with budget and menu selection. Be Organized- Before visiting any potential caterer, be sure to set up a system to organize your findings. A notebook to separate each company and what they have to offer is necessary. The notebook should contain menu options, price ranges, your initial reaction, and a brief overview of their past work. By doing this, the right caterer for your occasion will be easy to find. The choices are endless, but there is no need to stress out. The right catering company will have the experience and capability to be confident and calm on the big day. A little homework and some organization will go a long way to ensure a successful event.
How can I find the right catering equipment for my event in UK?
Finding the right catering equipment for your event in the UK involves careful planning and consideration. Here are some steps to help you in the process: 1. Assess your needs: Start by making a list of all the catering equipment you'll require for your event. Consider the type of event, the number of guests, the menu you plan to serve, and any special requirements specific to your event. 2. Determine your budget: Set a budget for the catering equipment you need. Knowing your financial constraints will help you prioritize and make cost-effective choices. 3. Research catering equipment suppliers: Look for reputable catering equipment suppliers in the UK. You can search online, check local directories, and ask for recommendations from event organizers or caterers. 4. Compare equipment options: Once you have a list of suppliers, compare the catering equipment they offer. Check the quality, condition, and availability of the items you need. 5. Consider the venue: If you have already chosen a venue for your event, visit the location to assess its facilities. Some venues may already have basic catering equipment available for use, which can save you money and effort. 6. Check for additional services: Inquire if the catering equipment suppliers offer additional services, such as delivery, setup, and pickup after the event. Having these services provided can make the process more convenient for you. 7. Test the equipment: If possible, visit the supplier's showroom or warehouse to inspect the equipment in person. Test any electrical appliances to ensure they are in proper working condition. 8. Ask about maintenance and support: Inquire about the maintenance and support provided with the equipment. Knowing that the supplier can assist if any issues arise during the event can provide peace of mind. 9. Read customer reviews: Look for reviews or testimonials from previous customers to gauge the reliability and service quality of the catering equipment supplier. 10. Seek professional advice: If you're unsure about the specific equipment you need, don't hesitate to seek advice from event planners, caterers, or the equipment suppliers themselves. They can help you make informed decisions based on your event requirements. 11. Book in advance: Catering equipment suppliers may have limited stock, especially during busy seasons. To ensure you get the equipment you need, make your reservation well in advance. 12. Review the contract: Once you've selected a supplier, review the contract carefully. Ensure that all the equipment, pricing, delivery details, and terms are clearly stated. By following these steps and planning ahead, you can find the right catering equipment to make your event in the UK a success. Properly selected and well-maintained equipment can contribute to the smooth running of your event and create a positive experience for your guests. Jacksons Catering Equipment Ltd is a Trusted Supplier of Top-Quality Brands of Commercial Catering Equipment and commercial Electric Griddles in Northern Ireland and Ireland. We have one of the largest product ranges in Ireland and have the knowledge to ensure we recommend the right equipment you need for your job.
How To Start A Career In Catering?
How To Start A Career In Catering For those who like to cook, the dream of turning their hobby into a career seems daunting to say the least. If you are the right person for the job, however, it is very attainable and can translate into a rewarding career. One of the best ways to cook professionally is to get into catering. Catering is hard work to say the least, but i can produce a lot of money very quickly. For those who are interested in starting a catering company of their own, it is best to start out by working under someone who has been in the business for a long time. Getting a job for a catering company is not usually difficult, but you need to be sure that you are ready for the work. Catering entails having excellent knife skills and being able to work fast against a deadline, so you will want to brush up on both your speed and technique for at least a month before trying out to be part of a catering team. If you get a call back from a catering company you apply too, you will likely be asked to come in for a tryout. This may or may not be paid, but will inevitably decide whether or not you are the right fit for the job. For the person who is trying out for the position, it also allows them to find out if they like the job or not. Many people who are hobby cooks are blown away by the stress that can come with professional cooking. Trying out at a catering gig can be a great way to see if it is right for you. If you decide to stick with it, you should be prepared to work as many hours as you can in order to gain the experience you will need in order to someday open your own catering company. The more you learn early on, the less you will have to catch up on later on in your career, which will save you both valuable time and money.
Which sport channel as the broadcating right?
a particular television company has the right to buy exclusive coverage of any sporting event
What types of catering businesses are there?
If you think of a birthday, a wedding, a party, a sleepover or a simple movie night, what do they all have in common? Food! One of the most crucial & common components of any event is the food offered at it. As a result, anyone organising a formal or casual event is under tremendous pressure to take care of their guests’ dining needs. But thank all the food gods for the food catering businesses that can take this load off their shoulders and handle everything in the kitchen 1. Corporate Catering Here, the caterer serves the company’s employees when they gather at a place for company-related business. Most businesses regularly host company-wide meetings where employees can discuss important issues. Since there are typically not a great number of people present during company meetings, the caterer can have people serve the guests their preferred meals and beverages. 2. Wedding Catering Wedding caterers are hired not only for the wedding and reception but also for other wedding-related events such as the rehearsal dinners, music nights (sangeet), and so on. Weddings are among the most important occasions in people’s lives. As a result, caterers pay special attention to the entire operation so that the couples can enjoy their special day without worrying about the arrangements. 3. Social Event Social events include retirement, birthdays, babies, and bridal showers. Such events, in particular, necessitate a smaller scale and more customised food service. At such events, dietary preferences should be taken care of by the caterers so that food allergy flare-ups can be avoided. 4. Concession Catering This category includes public events, significant sporting occasions, and huge music concerts. There is probably food available wherever there are huge gatherings of people. In such circumstances, simply offer the most well-liked items as it is challenging to satisfy everyone’s unique food preferences. In place of full-course dining options, for example, it makes sense to have well-known quick food joints. Jacksons Catering Equipment Ltd is a Trusted Supplier of Top-Quality Brands of Commercial Refrigeration and Commercial Catering Equipment in Northern Ireland. We have one of the largest product ranges in Ireland and have the knowledge to ensure we recommend the right equipment you need for your job.
Which is best venue management company in dubai?
Honchos: Best Event Management Company Dubai provides venue management, A crucial part of the success of an event depends upon the venue where the event is conducted. HONCHOS has the proper foresight, experience, and network to rearrange the right venue for an event.
Catering Insurance?
form_title=Catering Insurance form_header=Find the right insurance to keep you protected during your next catered event! What made you decide to look into catering insurance?=_ What current forms of insurance do you have?=_ How many employees work with you?=_
