Corporate Catering Companies

When shopping for catering services ask the provider about their various service levels. Many will offer full service catering, self service catering and drop off catering.

Full Service Catering

The catering company will bring all of the equipment, linen, serving utensils, plates, silverware, water goblets, wine glasses, complete table service, chafing dishes, and service staff to the event.  There pricing for full service catering is by far the highest.

Self Service Catering

Customers wanting to reduce the cost of catering services may opt for self service catering.  They make arrangements in advance with the catering company to pick up all of the food, linens, supplies and service ware directly from the catering company. The customer is responsible for the set up, clean up and return of any equipment or dishes.  This can save some money, but also requires at least one trip to the catering company and some work.

Drop Off Catering

This is sort of the best of both worlds.  Arrangements are made in advance with the catering company to bring all of the items in the full service catering package, set up the event, table service and buffet. The catering company then leaves.  The rest is up to the customer to serve, clean up and return all of the equipment and dishes.  Often this provides the nice look and feel, but reduces the costs somewhat because of the limited labor cost involved.

Do It Your Self Catering

Many times, I have seen the mother of the bride in the kitchen days before the wedding preparing food for the wedding reception.  This works well for some.  For others close family and friends are great at helping put together wonderful meals and reception goodies.  Some wedding receptions are more of a potluck arrangement.  This is another way to reduce costs.  Select a theme and divide up the list.  It can be quite fun and interesting as well.  Be sure to designate ONE person as the point person.  Someone needs to be in charge, besides the mother of the bride.  A good SECOND person to help the ONE person in charge is suggested also.

Talk with your catering professional about various options for your event and compare the costs.  All factors should be considered when making a decision as to which would be the best level of service for your particular event.

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