Wedding Planning Tips: Picking a Caterer- Part Two
So now that it’s time to make some phone calls and review proposals, here are some things to consider: When you chat with the caterer, do they ask you good questions that you hadn’t though of? Do they seem interested in learning about your big day? Do they use keywords that fit into your wedding vision (for instance, you’re thinking BBQ and they say “Rustic, Casual, Fun”)?
Your first conversation should last a while; this is your chance to see how they think on their feet, the most important skill any event person can have. This conversation will also give you a good read on their personality and how well it will mesh with yours.
If the first impression was good, but the proposal doesn’t appear within two weeks, I would move on. I always take this as a sign that they either don’t care or are too busy to handle new business. Most of their menus are already created and putting together a basic proposal should take only a week (unless it’s the holidays– then all bets are off because they are super busy). In any case, you need a caterer who is responsive and will be around when you have questions.
Once you get the proposal, ask yourself: Is the proposal easy to understand? This may seem like a weird question, but I have seen catering proposals that look like some mathematical proof and make no sense whatsoever. Is the proposal succinct? I once got a proposal that was—no joke—90 pages long.
Do the menu descriptions sound like something you would order at a restaurant? Is the bottom line spelled out? Granted this first round won’t have all the details of an event like rentals, but it should give you a pretty good idea of the cost of labor and food. If you have a hard time understanding the estimated total, be wary. These caterers may tell you the cost is $50 per person, but forget to mention the cost of labor, service charges, and tax which could easily add 40% or more to the estimate.
Is the menu close to your vision? Do they give you options and ideas that aren’t necessarily what you asked for, but fit into your wedding vision? If the menu is close and they’ve gone above and beyond by throwing out more ideas, then there is a good chance that the caterer understands what you want and need.
So now it’s time for the fun part—the tasting! Tomorrow I’ll talk about what you should be looking for (other than tasty food) and how to make your caterer a happy vendor.
Image from Paula LeDuc Fine Catering.
Tags: Kelly Oshiro Events, Santa Barbara Vendors, Santa Barbara wedding planner
