We've decided to start featuring some of our favorite vendors to dish out advice about their particular areas of expertise. Today we're thrilled to welcome our dear friends from RSVP Catering, one of the premiere catering companies here in DC!
Choosing a caterer can feel like a daunting task-- especially because most couples believe that good food is an integral part of throwing a great party [and we wholeheartedly agree!]. Here are some tips from RSVP on how to embark on the search for the perfect caterer for your big day!
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Follow the buzz. Have you been to a great party lately? That’s the best place to start when you’re thinking of hiring a caterer. Find out who the caterer was; you’ll find that the hostess will be flattered that you noticed and will gladly share the information. If you were impressed, that caterer will most likely impress your guests too. Chatting with other vendors can be helpful, too-- event coordinators, florists, photographers and musicians on the local circuit are also good sources for finding out who are good caterers in your area. They’ve been “up close and personal” at a lot of events and see caterers in action.
Do a little research. Find out how long the catering company you’re interested in has been in business to make sure they have a good track record. Businesses with staying power are those who are proven to be reliable and professional. They will also have well trained staff. Make sure the caterer has a business license and a liquor license. Go on to the caterer’s website to find out if the catering company has done events similar to yours. Look at sample menus. You will quickly get an idea of the kinds of foods the caterer offers. Look at the photos: a picture is worth a thousand words!
Chat with the caterer over the phone. Have some facts on hand so both you and the caterer know whether you can work together: the nature of your event, date and time, approximately how many guests you will have, where the event will be held, the style of the event, whether you will have wine and liquor, and what kind of budget you have in mind. Also ask if the caterer can create any special menus, perhaps featuring all-natural, local and/or organic products. See if the caterer is comfortable with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free requests. If all those questions are answered to your satisfaction, ask the caterer for two references and be prepared to set up a time to meet with the caterer.
A huge thanks to the folks at RSVP Catering for this sound advice! We can't speak highly enough about the RSVP team, so be sure to check them out if you're getting married in the DC area. We''ll certainly be welcoming them back to share more fabulous advice in the future!
[Photos provided by RSVP Catering]