The East Bay Area is an excellent location to host an event. From the East Bay Regional Parks to the many places in San Francisco and Marin County, there are a ton of options for event sites. And, with its central location, the East Bay is also a wonderful place to find catering companies.
But with so many catering companies, which one is the best for your event?
What to Consider Before Hiring a Catering Company
- Determine the Budget: This is an important first step in any event planning, but it's especially important when choosing a catering company. Be clear about the budget before meeting with potential caterers. This will curb overspending and save time in the long run.
- Acquire Recommendations: When unsure where to start the search, ask friends, family, or co-workers if they have any catering company recommendations. Once the recommendations have been collected, research each company to understand their services and prices better.
- Read Online Reviews: Still undecided? Take to the internet and read online reviews. Yelp is a great resource for this but be sure to read reviews on multiple sites to obtain a well-rounded view.
- Schedule a Tasting: With a narrowed-down list of potential catering companies gathered, it's time to schedule a tasting. This allows the planner to sample the food and gain a sense of the catering company's style.
- Consider the Guest List: When the headcount is finalized, narrow down the catering company options. Some companies specialize in small gatherings, while others are better equipped to handle large groups. Knowing the size of the guest list will help in selecting a catering company who can accommodate the event.
- Choose a Style: The next step is deciding what food to serve at the event. Is it a formal event like a wedding where a traditional sit-down dinner is expected, or is it a more casual affair like a birthday party where finger foods and appetizers would suffice? Once the food has been decided, narrow down the list of catering companies based on their ability to provide the desired cuisine.
- Inquire About Extras: Some catering companies offer additional services, such as event planning, rentals, and entertainment. If these services can help make the event smoother, inquire about them when meeting with potential caterers.
- Obtain Everything in Writing: Once the catering company is selected, acquire all the details in writing. This includes the menu, the price, and special instructions or requests. Making sure everything is in writing will help guarantee the event goes smoothly, and everyone is on the same page.
