How to Control Your Catering Event and Budget

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By Wendell Fowler
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Caterer for 35 Years

Catering in the US has gotten expensive and these days, literally every restaurant offers the service. How to choose a caterer is up to you. Word of mouth and a track record are the best references. A caterer, however, is as only good as his or her last performance.

The time of day you select will dictate how much you spend on the event. An afternoon tea is the least expensive and a full blown set-down affair complete with tables, chairs, linen, floral centerpieces, and eating utensils is most costly.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

List of established, reputable caterers.
The time of day for the event has everything to do with the price of the event.
Fresh cut flowers and candles in the bathrooms.
A valet.

Catering Budget

Step 1

Decide on the menu and caterer. Ask for a tasting when you meet with the potential caterer. They hate it, but you have the right. How many guests will you have? Do you want a full bar or just wine and beer? Do you want China or quality paper goods?
Step 2

Need a tent? Is there a "plan B: for an outside soirée if it rains and storms? What about the band?
Step 3

Caterers should set up in the customers garage, not in their kitchen.
Guests do not want to witness the cooking carnage plus the hostess wants to show off hers or his clean kitchen. Use your pretty side-board for coffee and desserts.
Step 4

Specify a certain area for the smokers in your group. Have plenty of non-alcoholic beverages available. Bottled water is a great idea. People are drinking less these days.

Tips & Warnings

Be sure to save a large plate of food for the bride and groom to take with them when they leave.
The average time spent with each guest is 1 minute; so do the math.
In the summer, order at least 3 pounds of ice per person for drinks and keeping the beer and wine cold.
If you are having a buffet, plan on three 6 inch plates per person.
Trash barrels should be everywhere so guests won't put their empty glass on your new coffee table.
Never hire friends or family to bartend. It always ends up in disaster.
Keep the booze away from the help. To many cooks spoil the broth, but too much broth can spoil the cook.
Always get a signed contract and half up front.
Hire someone to clean up. You will be pooped.
Rentals of chairs, tables, plates, silverware, tables, cloths, and eating utensils can eat away at your food budget.
Use good quality paper plates and real silver.
Wrap the silverware in a napkin and tie it with a pretty bow and set it in a basket near the plates.
Do not allow smoking.