Things you should know before choosing an event caterer in UK
Be it any event – a corporate meet or a wedding or a fund raiser - the choice of catering staff is crucial. Selecting a caterer in Leicester, UK, can be a fun process but it also requires some thought about what you want to serve at your party.
We give you a few simple tips to consider before finalising on the event catering service for your next big event.
Start with a head count Before you finalise your event caterer, you need to know how many people will be attending your event. Make an approximate head count before deciding on the budget and menu.
Set your itinerary Timing is important, especially if it is a corporate event. If there are multiple speakers and presentations, you’ll want to schedule food service around those activities. So you must set your event’s itinerary first, as it will allow your caterer to decide on cooking and service time.
Get some recommendations ď‚—
Ask your friends and business associates, and check online reviews about the best event caterers in town.
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The management at your events venue will also be able to recommend caterers they have worked with in the past.
Look for clean kitchens ď‚—
Never choose a catering service without checking out their kitchens.Your event is a reflection of who you are. And for the very same reason, you don’t want to serve food that is made in a dirty and chaotic kitchen to your esteemed guests.
Sample the menu Never finalise an event caterer without sampling the menu and approving the dishes that you are planning to serve. ď‚—
Menu tastings should include everything from the hor d’oeuvres to the deserts. If they are not offering a tasting, then it is better to check out another caterer.
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If the caterer runs a restaurant or hotel, you can sample a meal on the premises.
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A sizeable corporate event can play host to hundreds of people, each with their distinct taste. So it is important to provide enough variety to satisfy all of your guests. Check if the caterer can deliver a variety of dishes. Variety should extend to the drinks menu as well.
Enquire about staff availability The number of staff you need will depend on the size and nature of your event.
You will need not just the catering staff, but also someone to open the door and take coats, people to look after the coats, and waiters and waitresses to serve food and drink.
If it is a buffet, then you will need two servers for every 30 guests. For large groups you need three or more staff to clear dishes and restock the food stations.
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Sit down meals need one server per table of eight, with additional servers to handle drinks service.
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For the bar you need at least one bartender, and one bar-back, for every 50 guests.
Fix your budget ď‚—
People often make this mistake of booking a catering service before finalising their budget. What they fail to understand is that, fixing a budget will only make it easier to settle on menus, food costs and staff requirements.
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Be clear about your budget, and make sure that the quote you receive covers the caterer’s full service, including set up, break down, and all staffing considerations. Ask the caterer if there will be any potential hidden fees or additional costs before signing a contract.
Confirm everything in writing Always ask for quotes and confirmation of everything in writing.You must plan the event in advance so that you will get enough time to get estimates and compare catering services, facilities and costs. Remember that caterers get booked up months in advance.
Compare before you sign a contract You are spoilt for choice when it comes to event catering in Midland, Leicester.You want the best for your event, so compare catering services. Get all the information from them before making any final decisions and before signing any contracts or paying any advances.
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Visit Juicy Jackets, they are the best event caterers in Midland for all special occasions.