It is possible to have a top notch catering service, even if you are on a budget. Make sure you give yourself and your caterer lots of time for planning, so that you can really work out the details. There are a number of catering companies in your locale who would gladly work with you to meet your budget.
Take your time, and do a little research. Don't set a budget until you have a good handle on what you might get for your money. Contact a few caterers and find the one that gives you the best bang for your buck.
You'll want to find a caterer who will listen to you and help you control costs. Be realistic, though, and know that you won't get a good deal if your event is in a very busy time of year.
Utilize your caterer's experience, ask for menu suggestions and find out what the most affordable dishes they offer are.
Look for a caterer that specializes in the event you are working on. Again if you have a big event, hire your caterer well in advance, even a year. You may end up paying higher prices on holidays and wedding seasons, so consider an alternative date or a non weekend night for your event.
Always work out all the details with your caterer when it comes to their costs. These can often times translate into unanticipated costs that may blind side you when you get the bill. Ask your caterer about any delivery fees, staffing fees, circumstantial fees, taxes and gratuity that will be included in the final bill. Get it in writing, don't assume that all of these, even if not listed, will be taken care of. Review and budget before you sign the contract, if something does not get handled like you expect, it may be hard to find compensation for it.
Flashy ads and highly polished promo material might be something to watch out for, for often these are expensive to create and end up costing you in the end. This is not always the case, so make sure you do your research.
Save Big, Easy
Cut down your guest list.
Wedding cakes are cheaper to arrange on your own.
Instead of hosting a bar stocked with every imaginable liquor, mixer and condiment, serve only beer, wine and champagne. Or, offer only one or two of those. If your heart is set on serving a true cocktail, add one signature drink. You might want to add just one or two versatile spirits to the drink menu, such as vodka or whiskey.
Some caterers will let you bring your own liquor, charging a nominal corkage fee. If possible, choose an alcohol supplier who has a buyback policy. This is an agreement to purchase back any unopened bottles.
Cut down the number of courses, or even consider a buffet instead of the more formal sit-down meal. This requires fewer staff, and perhaps then you can even upgrade the menu to offer an item you really had your heart set on.
Instead of dinner, serve lunch, brunch, or even just a dessert reception. Skip the hors d'oeuvres altogether and pile self-serve cocktail tables high with beautiful cheeses, breads and fresh fruits.
Black tie vs. Casual
Nice china or otherwise fancy ware costs more, consider a more casual themed event. Your guests will appreciate good food on a steady plate more that inferior foods in the most dazzling setting.
Make sure you choose your menu carefully, and ask your caterer for lots of ideas. Stray away from expensive ingredients and avoid labor intensive dishes. With these ideas in mind, you should be well on your way to a great event, with affordable food service.
Take your time, and do a little research. Don't set a budget until you have a good handle on what you might get for your money. Contact a few caterers and find the one that gives you the best bang for your buck.
You'll want to find a caterer who will listen to you and help you control costs. Be realistic, though, and know that you won't get a good deal if your event is in a very busy time of year.
Utilize your caterer's experience, ask for menu suggestions and find out what the most affordable dishes they offer are.
Look for a caterer that specializes in the event you are working on. Again if you have a big event, hire your caterer well in advance, even a year. You may end up paying higher prices on holidays and wedding seasons, so consider an alternative date or a non weekend night for your event.
Always work out all the details with your caterer when it comes to their costs. These can often times translate into unanticipated costs that may blind side you when you get the bill. Ask your caterer about any delivery fees, staffing fees, circumstantial fees, taxes and gratuity that will be included in the final bill. Get it in writing, don't assume that all of these, even if not listed, will be taken care of. Review and budget before you sign the contract, if something does not get handled like you expect, it may be hard to find compensation for it.
Flashy ads and highly polished promo material might be something to watch out for, for often these are expensive to create and end up costing you in the end. This is not always the case, so make sure you do your research.
Save Big, Easy
Cut down your guest list.
Wedding cakes are cheaper to arrange on your own.
Instead of hosting a bar stocked with every imaginable liquor, mixer and condiment, serve only beer, wine and champagne. Or, offer only one or two of those. If your heart is set on serving a true cocktail, add one signature drink. You might want to add just one or two versatile spirits to the drink menu, such as vodka or whiskey.
Some caterers will let you bring your own liquor, charging a nominal corkage fee. If possible, choose an alcohol supplier who has a buyback policy. This is an agreement to purchase back any unopened bottles.
Cut down the number of courses, or even consider a buffet instead of the more formal sit-down meal. This requires fewer staff, and perhaps then you can even upgrade the menu to offer an item you really had your heart set on.
Instead of dinner, serve lunch, brunch, or even just a dessert reception. Skip the hors d'oeuvres altogether and pile self-serve cocktail tables high with beautiful cheeses, breads and fresh fruits.
Black tie vs. Casual
Nice china or otherwise fancy ware costs more, consider a more casual themed event. Your guests will appreciate good food on a steady plate more that inferior foods in the most dazzling setting.
Make sure you choose your menu carefully, and ask your caterer for lots of ideas. Stray away from expensive ingredients and avoid labor intensive dishes. With these ideas in mind, you should be well on your way to a great event, with affordable food service.
About the Author:
Learn more about Little Rock Catering. Stop by Barry Taylor's site where you can find out all about Our Catering Tips
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