12 Questions

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Caterer

Questions to ask when interviewing wedding caterers. Use these essential questions to find the perfect vendor for your wedding.

Key Factors to Consider

Menu flexibilityDietary accommodationsStaff qualityPricing structure

Experience Questions

Can we do a tasting before booking?

Why it matters: You should taste the food before committing

Logistics Questions

How do you handle dietary restrictions and allergies?

Why it matters: Essential for guest safety and comfort

Do you provide bar service?

Why it matters: Alcohol service may be separate

What is the server-to-guest ratio?

Why it matters: Affects service quality

What is your setup and cleanup process?

Why it matters: Coordination with venue timing

How do you handle leftovers?

Why it matters: Some couples want to keep extra food

Can you provide a vendor meal for our other vendors?

Why it matters: Photographers and DJs need to eat too

Pricing Questions

What is included in the per-person price?

Why it matters: Service, rentals, and gratuity may be extra

Do you provide tables, chairs, linens, and tableware?

Why it matters: Rentals can add significant cost

What are the payment terms?

Why it matters: Understand deposit and final payment timing

Style Questions

Can you customize the menu?

Why it matters: Personalization may have limits

Contract Questions

Do you have liability insurance?

Why it matters: Protects against food-related issues

Red Flags to Watch For

  • !
    No tasting available
  • !
    Vague about what's included
  • !
    Poor food safety practices
  • !
    Inflexible about dietary needs
  • !
    Hidden service charges

Pro Tips

  • Get itemized pricing, not just per-person estimates
  • Ask for references from recent weddings
  • Confirm final guest count deadline
  • Understand their policy for guest count changes

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