Catering On A Budget

Posted by Barry Taylor

November 22, 2009

It is possible to have a top notch catering service, even if you are on a budget. Make sure you give yourself and your caterer lots of time for planning, so that you can really work out the details. There are a number of catering companies in your locale who would gladly work with you to meet your budget.

Take your time, and do a little research. Don’t set a budget until you have a good handle on what you might get for your money. Contact a few caterers and find the one that gives you the best bang for your buck.

Make sure the caterer you choose wants to help you, and knows that you are on a very tight budget. Also, realize that finding a good deal might be harder if your event falls in a busy time for caterers.

Don’t be afraid to ask for menu suggestions from your caterer. Utilize their experience – this is what they do every day!

Look for a caterer that specializes in the event you are working on. Again if you have a big event, hire your caterer well in advance, even a year. You may end up paying higher prices on holidays and wedding seasons, so consider an alternative date or a non weekend night for your event.

Make sure you discuss all the extra details which can translate into added costs, and added strain on your budget. Some of those include: delivery fees, staffing fees, circumstantial fees, taxes, gratuity, and so on. Get it all in writing and make sure your contract lists every aspect of your event. If it is not listed, before you sign the contract, make sure you go over any left out details.

When choosing a caterer, don’t fall for flashy advertising and promotional material. These are expensive to produce and will often create higher costs for the end user (you). This is not always the case, again, research.

Big Savings, Easy

Cut down your guest list.

If it’s a wedding, arrange for the cake on your own.

Instead of hosting a bar stocked with every imaginable liquor, mixer and condiment, serve only beer, wine and champagne. Or, offer only one or two of those. If your heart is set on serving a true cocktail, add one signature drink. You might want to add just one or two versatile spirits to the drink menu, such as vodka or whiskey.

Many caterers will allow you to bring your own wine and spirits, charging a nominal corkage fee for wine served during dinner. If possible, choose a wine and spirit supplier who has a “buyback policy,” an agreement to purchase any unopened bottles.

Cut down the number of courses, or even consider a buffet instead of the more formal sit-down meal. This requires fewer staff, and perhaps then you can even upgrade the menu to offer an item you really had your heart set on.

Instead of dinner, serve lunch, brunch, or even just a dessert reception. Skip the hors d’oeuvres altogether and pile self-serve cocktail tables high with beautiful cheeses, breads and fresh fruits.

Black tie vs. Casual

Consider a more casual themed event, fine china and fancy ware will drive your costs up. Your guests will enjoy great food served on a study plate more than inferior foods served on high dollar china.

Make sure you choose your menu carefully, and ask your caterer for lots of ideas. Stray away from expensive ingredients and avoid labor intensive dishes. With these ideas in mind, you should be well on your way to a great event, with affordable food service.

Learn more about Little Rock Catering. Stop by Barry Taylor’s site where you can find out all about Our Catering Tips

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