23 Vital Questions you should be asking - when choosing a caterer

By David Caruso


Food and beverages are a key component to any party or function, so much so, that an entire event could be spoiled by poor quality or late served food.

If you have decided to have your event or party catered for, you want and need the peace of mind that people with expertise will fulfill their paid obligations.

As already suggested, caterers in their role of serving food and sometimes beverages become a pivotal role in the success of your event.

So how do you know which one to choose? Sure you have friends that make their recommendations - but make sure these 23 vital questions are asked when deciding what caterer you will be using.

General:

  1. How many menu selections do you have? What are the cost variances per person?
  2. Are you a full time caterer?
  3. Do you usually cater for these types of party's or events?
  4. What is the staff dress code?
  5. Can you provide a list of references? Can I speak with these people?
  6. How much experience have you and your company had?

Service:

  1. What type of service, sit down dinner, or buffet, would be the best?
  2. Are glasses, plates and silverware provided; is there an extra cost for this?
  3. Do you provide liquor? Can guests bring their own liquor on to the site? if so is there a corkage fee?
  4. Do you provide linens? Is there an extra cost for this?
  5. What is included and not included in your rental provision? i.e. tables, chairs, etc..  
  6. Is food provided for photographer, videographer, band or DJ?

Cost:

  1. What type of food items do you recommend for my budget and the number of guests
  2. What deposit is required?
  3. What is your refund or cancellation policy?
  4. Is there an overtime charge?
  5. When is the final headcount, payment, deposit, due?
  6. If we choose a buffet style, is the service included or is there an extra charge?
  7. Can you advise me on how I can save money e.g if I provide the Linen myself etc.
  8. Is there a payment plan?

Extras

  1. What is your leftover policy?
  2. Will you personally be there at the party? If you are unavailable for some reason, who will be
    your replacement?
  3. Do you take care of the clean up? At what extra cost?

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Alert Hire Group Pty. Ltd.
Trading as Alert Rental Centre
ABN: 44 093 383 254

84 Sunnyholt Road, Blacktown NSW 2148.

Small Equipment Hire:    Phone: 9672 3922 Fax: 9678 9689
Party Hire: Phone: 9672 3121 Fax: 9672 4599
Plant Hire: Phone: 9627 4399 Fax: 9627 7074
Email: enquiries@alerthire.com.au