Catering Q & A

What other fees do you charge?

Are tips and taxes included in the price? Some caterers will charge a cake-cutting fee or corking fee for wines. Make sure you get all fees in writing up front.

Do you handle special menu requests?

You may have guests with special menu needs, such as food allergies, vegan or kosher requirements. Make sure your caterer will accommodate these needs. Some couples want to have a special family recipe at the reception - grandma's meatballs or foods from the family's ethnic traditions. Find out if your caterer will personalize your menu with these kinds of items.

Do you offer cakes?

Ask if your caterer offers wedding and groom's cakes, and find out if they are included in the price.

Will you pack us a "doggie bag" for after the reception?

Sometimes the wedding couple is so busy at the reception that they have very little time to eat anything. Attentive caterers will prepare small boxes of food for the couple to enjoy when they are finally alone.

What are the payment arrangements?

You need to find out how much of a deposit is required, and if it's refundable or not. Ask when the final payment is due and what the caterer's preferred form of payment is.

When you finally settle on a caterer, make sure you have a written contract to sign. This guarantees that they will provide the food, timelines and details you discussed.

Asking these 10 questions will help you choose the right caterer to help make your wedding a truly special celebration.