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Tips For Hiring A Catering Company On A Budget

Written by Barry Taylor Sunday, 22 November 2009 09:08

It is possible to have a top notch catering service, even if you are on a budget. Make sure you give yourself and your caterer lots of time for planning, so that you can really work out the details. There are a number of catering companies in your locale who would gladly work with you to meet your budget.

It is possible to have a top notch catering service, even if you are on a budget. Make sure you give yourself and your caterer lots of time for planning, so that you can really work out the details. There are a number of catering companies in your locale who would gladly work with you to meet your budget.

Take your time, and do a little research. Don't set a budget until you have a good handle on what you might get for your money. Contact a few caterers and find the one that gives you the best bang for your buck.

Find a caterer you feel is actually listening to you when you insist on controlling costs. But be realistic and know that you won't get the best deal if you insist on a June or December event with a seven-course formal dinner.

Ask for menu suggestions and affordable options. Use your caterer's experience and skills, they do this every day!

Try to choose a caterer that specializes in the your type of event. For big events, hire a caterer well in advance, up to a year: wedding and holiday seasons may often mean higher prices, so consider an alternative date for your event.

Always find out all the details that can translate to extra costs with your caterer, including their written policies, delivery fees, staffing fees, circumstantial fees, taxes and gratuity, and anything else that may appear on a bill. Get everything in writing. Make sure that your contract details every individual aspect of your event. Do not assume that things that are not listed are being taken care of. Review especially before you sign the contract, since if it is not in writing and something does not get handled like you expected it to, it may be hard to fight for compensation on this issue.

Don't be fooled by flashy or professional advertising or promotional material. These are expensive to produce and usually translates in a higher cost to the end customer, but this is not always the case, so do your research.

Save Big, Easy

Create a smaller guest list.

If it's a wedding, arrange for the cake on your own.

Think about paring down the liquor selection. You can serve only beer, wine and champagne instead. Or one of these. If you must have a true cocktail at your event, add only one or two, or add just one or two versatile spirits to your drink menu, like vodka or whiskey.

Many caterers will allow you to bring your own wine and spirits, charging a nominal corkage fee for wine served during dinner. If possible, choose a wine and spirit supplier who has a "buyback policy," an agreement to purchase any unopened bottles.

Also, cut down the number of courses you have to offer, or offer a buffet instead of sit down meal. This will require less staff, and may give you more budgetary allowance for another item you have your heart set on.

Serve lunch, brunch, or even just a dessert reception instead of dinner. Skip the hors d'oeuvres altogether and pile self-serve cocktail tables high with beautiful cheeses, breads and fresh fruits.

Formal vs. Casual

Consider a more casual themed event, fine china and fancy ware will drive your costs up. Your guests will enjoy great food served on a study plate more than inferior foods served on high dollar china.

Choose menu items carefully, and ask your caterer for suggestions. Decline expensive ingredients and avoid labor intensive dishes. With all of this in mind, you should be well on your way to lovely food, at affordable pricing.