Ever wonder what kind of questions to ask your caterer besides general food questions? We’ve got you covered today with some frequently asked questions!

 

Questions to ask:

What is the ratio of servers to guests?

How will the servers be dressed?

How is your pricing broken down (e.g. food, bar, cake-cutting, tax, gratuity)? NOTE: Usually tax and a service charge are tacked on to your final cost. The service charge, which can range 18–23%. And in many states, the service charge itself is taxable.

How much time do you require for setting up and breaking down my event, and are there extra fees for this?

If my event runs longer than contracted, what are your overtime fees?

What is the last date by which I can give you a final guaranteed guest count?

What is your payment policy? Do you accept credit cards?

How much of a deposit is required to hold my date? When is the final payment due?

Are there any fees that won’t be included in the proposal that we should be aware of?

Once we book with you, how quickly can we expect a contract? And if we make changes to menu choices or other items, will you update us with a revised estimate and contract?

What is your refund or cancellation policy?

Can you provide a list of recent references?

photographs by Layce Bauman Photography