How to choose a catering company: the top 10 questions to ask

1. Can you customize your menu to suit dietary needs? A great caterer will be able to customize the perfect menu to accommodate dietary restrictions or personal choices, whether simple or elaborate.  Ask if they can incorporate part of your nationality or even a planned theme if that is your intention. You want to impress your guests, therefore, savor the memories with impeccable food selections.
2. Can you book a tasting? Most caterers will book a tasting once you have finalized a menu. The tasting will allow you to change anything you are not sure about and give feedback to the chef.  You will also be able to see how the food is presented and what to expect the day of your event.  This is where you will be able to set apart the caterers. 
3. Will the caterer have an onsite coordinator or captain for the evening to coordinate your meal & reception? Most reputable high end catering companies will have a coordinator or captain on site the day of your event. Your initial meeting with the caterer will allow you to start a relationship with them. Remember, you will be working with them throughout your planning process.  They will be the ones who will understand your requirements and your vision.  Therefore, be certain you will enjoy working with this individual, as they will be your main contact.
4. What will the price of your meal include? Does this include the dish rentals, linens, staffing, catering & gratuities?  Will they supply other rentals such as tents, tables and chairs if required?
5. What services will the staffing provide for you the day of your event?  Many elite catering companies will offer everything from setup to table décor, putting out flowers, favors, on the tables etc…ask them what they can do for you.
6. Who will the staff be onsite for my wedding and what will they be wearing?  Catering companies that can provide you with their own staff rather than staffing from an agency is always a better option since the staff will know how the catering company works and will ensure things are consistent.
7. Is the food made from scratch? Keep in mind all caterers are not created equally and it usually shows in the pricing when the food is made from scratch it is usually more than having frozen pre-made food.  
8. Does the caterer have a food premise license and insurance liability?  You will want to ensure that the caterer is not making meals out of their home and has a commercial kitchen to ensure they are up to code with the health inspectors. You would hate for any of your guests to get sick on your wedding day because the food was not prepared in a proper facility.
9. Ask about additional fees. Will you be charged a corking fee or cake cutting fee? 
10. Ask for references

Wedding Trends

Outdoor weddings are still buzzing this summer and fall. Backyards, & open fields, are the perfect backdrop for a laid back country chic wedding. To stay dry or out of the sun, tents, or barns on the property are the perfect option for holding the dinner and reception. Outdoor weddings are the perfect backdrop that offers a clean slate to create your “own” wedding style.  Every couple wants to showcase who they are to their family and friends by adding their own special touches and details.    

A few styles that work so well for outdoor weddings:

Romantic & whimsical settings are perfect for garden parties and afternoon tea. If weather permits dinning al fresco is a wonderful choice to set the mood. Look for Peonies, and hydrangeas, they are always a favorite among brides. Add a touch of gold to your decor whether it be for your charger plates or your flatware it’s sure to catch everyone’s eye and shouts “Elegant”

Casual chic is perfect for you to showcase your creative side. Have your guests seated at long barn board tables adorned with clusters of wildflowers. This screams rustic charm. Can’t find the barn board table tops, have a local woodcarver make you individual wooden placemats.  Adding herbs in the decor is another great addition to your table settings.  A sprig of rosemary on your napkins is simple yet so effective for that personal touch.

Be creative when it comes to your food presentations. This is where choosing a great caterer will make all the difference. They will be able to provide you will plenty of ideas or use the ones you already have. 

Still love the idea of cupcakes? Switch things up with a “Cupcake Bar” where guests will create their own cupcakes with a variety of frostings and toppings to choose from.  

Desserts this summer are simple and refined all while remaining beautiful. Forget all the layers upon layers of frosting. Try showcasing your cake by using fresh fruit, flowers or powdered sugar. Better yet, make your cake a family affair and create your own together for your own special touch.