Clueless - How do you pick a caterer?

[winelover23]

I know, I know I''m the most pathetic excuse for a female that has no idea how to plan a wedding but seriously...how do you pick a caterer? Do you just get quotes then pick or do you go try their food?

 

[Bella_mezzo]

here''s what I did.

1. Set a budget
2. ask friends in the area /other PSers/your other vendors if they have recommendations...
3. schedule a tasting

Decide


Also, check and see if your venue has restrictions on caterers. If they do you''ll be limited to use one of theirs and the choice is much easier

 

[sunnyd]

Find out who the venue recommends!

 

[winelover23]

Date: 12/23/2009 4:06:25 PM
Author: sunnyd
Find out who the venue recommends!

I did that. I honestly didn''t know if I was supposed to meet w/ them and they let me sample their food or what.

 

[sunnyd]

They should let you try stuff. Maybe get a couple of quotes and then see who fits in there budget wise, then make them give you samples!

 

[cakegirl]

I''m a chef, so hopefully I can help.
1) Figure out budget and think about what kind of dinner and type of food and if your guests have any special requirements-classic sit down, Italian dinner with many vegetarians?

2)get recommendations from friends, venue, websites. Check out the caterer''s websites and contact all of them that look appealing. Request a proposal for the event, including as much specific information as you can.

3) It may be easy to pick at this point, based on price and menu. Arrange a tasting with your first choice or first 2 choices if you are unsure. Once you taste the food you should know!