How to Rent Equipment for a Buffet

A buffet is a great way to host a large party. Once the buffet is set up, the host has time to enjoy their guests who serve themselves. The easiest way to hold a buffet is to rent the equipment so you can have a full buffet set up that keeps foods hot and cold.

Instructions

1. Create the menu for your buffet first. Decide on the type of food you'll serve and the amount of each dish. After the menu is decided on, you'll know how much equipment you'll need for hot food and how much equipment you'll need for cold food. Don't forget to include drinks and desserts in your menu plan.

2. Take the menu list with you when you visit the store that rents equipment for a buffet. This will help the salesperson understand your needs for the party.

3. Start with the basics for the buffet. Tables, chairs, tablecloths, napkins, china, silver and cups or glasses are the basics of your buffet. Many times it's easier to rent everything from the rental store than to try and separate your personal equipment from the rentals. The store may offer a discount to you if you rent everything from them.

4. Choose equipment that you can easily operate when renting for a buffet. Avoid complicated steamers and electric cookers. Instead, rent chafing dishes to keep hot foods hot. Remember though, that the food needs to be hot when placed in the chafing dish. Foods to be served cold should be separated from the hot food area, preferably on a separate buffet table. Many stores rent special salad tables that hold ice in the base, with cold foods placed on top of the ice.

5. Finalize the rental agreement with the store. Make sure you have the equipment delivered well ahead of time. Ask if the store does the buffet set up and if there is an extra charge. Also ask the rental store when the buffet equipment is to be returned and how it will be returned. Most stores that rent buffet equipment expect a sizable deposit when the rental agreement is finalized. Clean up will be much easier if everything used for the buffet is from the rental store; chances are nothing will be missing. Ask what charges could be incurred if something is broken or lost before signing the agreement.