Guide to Choosing a Private Event Caterer

Throwing a party these days isn’t as simple as inviting a few friends over and roasting hot dogs. Sure, you can always throw a party like that with family or close friends, but when hosting a private event, you’re going to want to impress your guests.

Private catering spans a wide range of possibilities. Whether this is a wine tasting for a few colleagues, a formal dinner for business staff, or a corporate retreat, you’re sure to find a company that specializes in hosting your event.

Here, we’ll explore Private Event Catering Pleasanton CA. This city has a variety of caterers to choose from. Here’s what to look for when hiring a caterer for your private events.

1Hiring a Private Caterer

You may already have the menu in mind or even some of the events that will ensue as the night progresses. But, the first real step that you must take is the act of actually hiring the caterer. Unless, of course, you want to throw this party all by yourself.

Hiring a caterer is relatively simple. The problem is, many people don’t know where to begin. Here is a simple plan to follow when choosing a private caterer for your functions.

Talk to the caterer

This may sound quite simple, but most people look at a pre-planned menu and forget about even getting to know the people behind the curtain. Be friendly and ask questions. A catering company should position itself as an expert in the field, so feel free to ask any questions or concerns that you have before hiring them.

Sample the Food

Again, this may seem obvious, but many people skip this step then end up disappointed when the food is delivered and found to be subpar. Try your menu items and if they don’t suffice your palate, move on to the next choice.

Check References

Word-of-mouth and reviews are great resources to check before signing any contract or exchanging any money for services. Ensure that you thoroughly review your caterer’s references and ask about recent events that you might have heard of where the caterer worked. This is a great way to get information when looking for prospective private event catering companies. Pleasanton CA has a close-knit community, and asking around town when checking references can be the most beneficial.

Request Previous Event Photos

Most respectable catering companies take pictures of their setups so that they have a portfolio of work they can share with prospective customers. Ensure that you review these photos and take note of their presentation skills. Look for appropriate setup regarding silverware, plate setting, and the like. These minute details tell a great deal of information regarding your caterer’s experience and knowledge.

Review

Review everything that the caterer has said he or she can provide. You can also request to go and see the physical arrangements, the kitchen, and tools used to prepare food and everything else that a caterer will be using for your event. Inspect equipment, check for quality, and ensure you’re satisfied before you book.

So many celebrations can be made into nights and days to remember when you have the right team handling your event. By following these guidelines, you’re sure to impress your guests and sleep soundly at night, knowing that you’ve chosen the best caterer in the area.