In early spring, we receive a lot of calls from couples asking for catering quotations for upcoming weddings. Often the caller is a little caught off guard by the questions we ask.

We find that our prospective clients have not thought through certain details or are uncertain about location, size or services needed. Of course, this is what we expect as it is our job as the event planner and/or caterer to worry about these details.

Nevertheless, we do need critical information to provide our prospective clients with quotes that are scalable up or down depending on some variables. One of our main goals is to insure there are no surprises for any couple on their wedding day.

The questions we ask and your answers help us provide you a quote that would be scalable based on guest count ranges. Please review this short list and have this information available so that our time together can be productive.

1. Your name and future partner’s name, including mailing addresses

2. Expected number of guests at your wedding

a. We know this will change and you will have until the week before the wedding to finalize guest count based on initial estimates

b. Take an average of your high and low count if you are not sure.

3. What time is the wedding?

4. Where is the ceremony relative to the reception?

5. Do you already have a venue selected?

6. If yes, does the venue provides tables and chairs?

7. If you have not selected a venue, do you want us to provide some suggestions?

8. What type of entrées were you planning? Example: If you say you would like chicken for an entrée, then it will be less then if you ask for Halibut or Tenderloin

9. On food preferences, is there anything we should know about religious observances or food allergies?

10. How did you find us? Referral, Google search, wedding website, etc, etc…

The one question that everyone wants to ask us when he or she first calls, “Is how much?” We would be remiss if we gave you a number without qualifying your needs.

Do not be afraid to tell us what your goal budget is. This helps us make recommendations on where you can save money. We will explain the options as we go and how it helps or hinders the ability to hit your target budget.

There are other questions we will ask and each will help us develop your proposal. When you call us, not only will we learn about your expectations, but you will learn more about this process and all the decisions you will be making. This is your day and our job is to understand first, create, and then execute. On behalf of all our team, we look forward to working with you.