What Catering Style are you?

Catering.  Every event has some in some form or another.  What do you want for your day?  

There are many different types of service out there - yes, I said service not food.  Catering a wedding, of course needs good food, but more importantly good service.  So you really need to ask, before you even  get menus or taste, what type of services they offer.  Believe me, not all catering is the same.  I once worked a wedding where the caterer they hired told me that they didn't to any service, they only provided the food and set it up.  Well, since that wasn't what the couple had been planning on, there was a last minute scramble to find someone who would.  So know what you want.  Maybe to save money you're willing and able to set up tables and chairs the day before.  Maybe you have family who is willing to serve a buffet.  Maybe you'd like your guests to be treated to an amazing meal with 5 star service.  Once you know this, ask for it.  Find out what they wear to the event.  Its pretty bad to have an elegant reception, where the service staff is wearing mismatched black tee shirts.

What you may find.....

• Full service catering - They can take care of all aspects of your menu, bar, and any rentals needed.  They will arrive early enough to set up tables and chairs, and stay afterward to clean and mop up after the event (I've seen plenty of bride's maids moping in their long gowns because they find out at the end of the night that the caterer doesn't do that).

• Some service catering - This is what I call those companies that claim they are full service, but won't touch any of your items (favors/flowers/table numbers); don't want to set up your tables and chairs; put out tip jars when working the bar; and won't break everything down at the end of the night (but somehow missed filling you in on this).  I once had a 'catering manager' tell me that no caterer ever folds napkins! OMG!!?

• Buffet service - this is what I call a company that shows up with hot boxes of food (who knows how long its been sitting there before you finally get to eat it!), set up their buffet tables, put the food out, stand back as you and your guests serve themselves, immediately break it down (don't try to come back for seconds!), and then pack up and leave while you're in the middle of toasts.

• No service - these are companies, often delis and such, that will bring you food, and maybe set it up for you, but then leave you to be on your own. 

None of these types of catering services are wrong, if they're right for you and your budget.   Some people have only ever seen it done one way, so that is their normal.  What's yours?

How will you show your Love?

We know you're in love. While dating, your friends and family have seen you show  love toward each other through gifts you've given, things you've said, and affection you show.  With all of the time lines, floor plans, contracts, and menu planning for your wedding, don't forget about the Love.

I often remind couples that at the wedding, your guests want to see why we're all here.  Go ahead hold hands while you walk around.  Give him a kiss on the check just because you can.  Caress her back while chatting with a guest.  You just got married! So its ok to show some PDA.

Now what about your guests? Sure you've planned a fun wedding, maybe some great food & drinks, but don't forget the little details.  Why not have a framed copy of the lyrics to your song? Or the jar you keep filled with all the tickets of the concerts you've seen together? Maybe even a print out of your first email back and forth.  These little touches speak volumes, and your guests will feel like you've let them into your secret world.  Or better yet, maybe they were there with you at that concert, and now have a story to share with other guests.  Sometimes these little details are really tiny gestures of love to your nearest and dearest. Sure they're seeing your love for each other with every step you take, but for those that were there at that time and place with you, or know the back story of how you decided to propose, etc.,  when they notice that one item they'll feel the love you have for them and for being in your lives.