Tip 2: Be Open to Suggestions. If you give your caterer a budget and some basic ideas of what you are looking for, they should be able to make suggestions of items that are within your budget. There are often very comparable options for your “Dream menu” that you may not be aware. Ask your caterer to help guide you in the right direction.

Tip 3: Do your research! Make sure your caterer has the experience and capacity to handle your event. Hire a caterer that you are comfortable with and build a good relationship with them. Catering is often the most expensive and most time intensive part of planning an event.

Tip 4: Make Sure You Are Comparing Apples-to-Apples. Some caterers include linens, china, dinnerware, and service fees into their pricing. Other caterers only do food. Be aware of what all is included so that you are making the smartest and most cost-effective decision for your event.

Tip 5: HAVE FUN! Creating menus and catering themes should be one of the most enjoyable parts of event planning! You can incorporate so many fun ideas into menu planning, buffet set-up, table displays, etc. that this portion of the planning should never feel like work. Find a caterer that you enjoy working with and that enjoys the planning process as much as you!