Menus and Caterers

Colorado events and weddings by A Memory Lane Event

Food and drink are some of the most important parts of your event - after all if they're well fed and have a great cocktail, they're sure to have a good time.  Everyone has experienced the event menu is usually either "rubbery chicken" or it's so good that guests can't stop talking about it. Your event caterer will probably be your largest expense, so you'll want them to be top-notch!

Start off by asking your event or wedding coordinator for suggestions or recommendations.  In most cases your event or reception site will have restrictions on which caterers they'll work with. 

Colorado events by A Memory Lane Event

If your not working with caterers to ask about their availability and general price range. Once you've found a few who seem like they would work, make appointments, arranging to have both an interview asking the following questions and a tasting. That way, you'll know you're working with a professional, you'll avoid ugly surprises on the final bill, and your guests' taste buds will be happy.

Questions to ask your caterer.

1. Given the style, time, and date of my event, what are some menu items that you suggest? What would the cost-per-person be?
2. Do you have any particular style of food or special menu items that you specialize in?
3. Could we provide a sentimental family favorite recipe to include in the menu?
4. How many other events will your company handle that same weekend/day/hour?  (Depends upon the location)
   
5. Are you licensed? (this means that they have met health department standards and have liability insurance)Do you have a liquor license?
6. How does the cost-per-person of a buffet compare to that of a sit-down dinner?
7. Does that cost-per-person just cover the food, or are charges such as staff, rentals, and linens included?
8. What service costs are included and what costs are additional? Are set-up and clean-up included? How much is overtime if the reception runs long? Are gratuities included?
9. Do you provide linens, glasses, plates, silverware, tables, chairs, serving pieces, and decorative flowers for trays? Would it cost less if I handled any or all of that myself?
10. What color and style of linens, glasses, plates, and accessories are available?
11. Will you be the person personally handling my wedding on my wedding day? If not, what is the name of the person who will, and when can I meet them?
12. How much time will you need for set-up and clean-up?
13. Can you provide a wedding cake, and possibly a grooms cake? If we provide them, do you charge a cake cutting and serving fee?
14. Do you charge for beverage service?
15. If we want to provide our own wine, champagne, and liquor, do you charge a corkage fee?
16. Will you provide food for the photographer, videographer, musicians, and other "day-of" vendors? If so, is there an extra charge?
17. Will you provide special meals for any children who attend, and is there a discounted charge for them?
18. Can we see a copy of your standard contract?
19. What deposit do you require to hold the date, and when will the rest of the money be due?
20. Can we see pictures of previous events, and speak to former clients for referrals?

Colorado weddings by A Memory Lane Event

If you got a good feeling from the caterer, and think they might be a viable candidate, ask them to draw up an outline of what you discussed, including costs, menu possibilities, and what the fee includes. And don't forget about that tasting!