{10 Holiday Party Tips}
With the holidays just around the corner, I
know many of you are starting to plan your get-togethers for the season. One of
the most important aspects of a holiday party is a great spread of food. I know
it can be overwhelming trying to find the best caterer for your party. So here
are a few tips from someone in the business to help make the search a little
easier!
10 Party Planning Insights From The Caterer
1. Before you pick a caterer, determine your
roof-top price. What is the highest amount you are willing to spend per person,
including tax? (and if its a full service event, including gratuity as well.)
You need that answer in your arsenal when searching for the best caterer.
2. Choose a caterer based on their food, not
because they are the hottest thing since sliced bread. A good caterer will
offer you a tasting of their food so you can get an understanding of their
style and flavor profile. That's the only way you'll know if the food is a good
fit for your event.
3. Once you've chosen your top 3 caterers,
start talking money. It is not rude to say, "Here is my budget per person
and I have "x" amount of guests. What can you offer me?"
Actually, I prefer a client who is straight forward and open to
recommendations. The caterer will know the best menu for your budget.
4. Express your vision for the event. The
caterer wants to know that you are planning a evening of mingling and there
will be limited seating. Or that you are hosting an intimate dinner party.
Details like this will help the caterer suggest an appropriate menu based on
their selections.
5. Heavy appetizers DOES NOT mean cheaper
prices. Its actually the opposite. The average price is $2-$4 per piece because
you are paying for all of the time that is required to create those delicious
bite-size apps. You try cooking and assembling 200 mini cheeseburgers topped
with onion straws! If you are budget conscious, stick with a traditional
buffet.
6. Talk about the amount of food. Does the
caterer bring exact portions or do they bring a little extra for those
"just in case" moments? That's important to know so that you order
the right amount of food. Also, if you are having children attend your event,
ask the caterer's recommendation for including them in your guest count. With
our portions, we count 2 children (under 10) as 1 adult and all of our portions
are based on adult servings.
7. Having a party over 50 guests? Do not skimp
on ordering serving staff. Most caterers supply their own staff for large
events and for good reason. Only the caterer knows how their food is supposed
to look/taste, how the food was prepared (dietary questions) and food-safe
procedures.
Plus, how can you be a good host when you are
busy playing caterer as well? For a minimum of $100, you can relax and
entertain your guests, knowing your party is being well managed.
8. Ask your caterer what size plates they
recommend for the event. If you purchase a plate that is too large, you could
run out of food before all of your guests get to eat. For my events, I
recommend a 9" plate for dinners and a 6" plate for appetizers.
9. Its time to talk about money again. Make
sure you know exactly when the final payment is due. Ask about taxes and
gratuities. If you aren't sure what percentage of gratuity is customary or when
it should be distributed, just ask. You also need to know if any deposits are
due to reserve your date.
10. Important Dates: every caterer has a
deadline to confirm guest counts and make changes to your menu. Make sure you
know them. Put the dates in your phone an set reminders. If you can save a few
dollars because Sally and John cannot attend your party, its worth it.
I hope these tips help with your upcoming
holiday party and if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
Best Wishes & BBQ,
Marlowe Whittaker
Catering Sales Manager
(865) 414-9417
Marlowe Whittaker
Catering Sales Manager
(865) 414-9417
