How to choose a Caterer

Here are some guidelines on how to choose a caterer:

Reputation

When looking to choose a caterer for your wedding reception, one of the most important things to take into consideration is their reputation. Don’t just choose the first caterer you see in the phone book.

Check with the Better Business Bureau or your local chamber of commerce to see if there are any complaints against the caterer you’re considering. If you’re doing this check online, keep an open mind. If you’re seeing overwhelming positive feedback and a few negative ones, it may be a situation of sour grapes by a “bridezilla” or an anonymous attack from a competitor.

Another important place to check is your local or state health department. This should be done not only to make sure your caterer is up to code with their health inspections, but also that they have actually registered with the health department and that it’s not a fly-by-night organization. Your caterer must also be licensed and insured.

Attitude

Your caterer works for you. Now, that doesn’t mean he’s at your beck and call 24 hours a day, but you should be able to have a great working relationship with your caterer. If your caterer tries to push you into making choices you don’t think are right for your guests or if he tries to push you toward higher-priced foods or packages, then you may want to reconsider his service.

Food choices

Some people may wish to go green and choose a caterer who specializes in either organic or locally grown food. However, don’t expect all caterers to be able to provide these services. This can run expensive for independent caterers, especially for organic food.
The same goes for specialty food. Not every caterer is a pastry chef or a sushi chef. You may have to search for a chef who can create exactly what you want.

Price

Usually the bride’s family will pay for the catering for the reception. The bride must take into consideration her family’s budget when it comes to choosing a caterer. It’s not fair to send your parents into bankruptcy just so the caterer can prove to everyone that he can make Lobster Newberg. Shop around to find the most reasonably priced caterer.

- www.iDoo.ca  (Staff Sep. 29, 2011)