By Alyssa Dicicco
When booking your wedding caterer, it’s something you need to physically be present to do so you can taste the food and meet with the team. But what are the steps in booking your wedding tasting? Let’s talk about all the ins and outs of what happens during the tasting with your caterer and what information you will need to know prior to booking your tasting.
BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR TASTING
When it’s time to book your wedding tasting, it’s usually six months to a year prior to your wedding. Keep in mind that many caterers prefer to book appointments during the week as they have weddings and events happening on the weekends. So be sure to request a long lunch break or ask to leave work a bit early to fit your tasting into your schedule.
Your caterer will have some questions for you up front before you book your tasting such as:
• How many people will be attending the tasting?
• Do you have any special requests as far as cuisine?
• Do you have any food allergies?
• When and where are you getting married? • How many guests are you expecting?
Also, expect to pay for your tasting, about $25 per person at some local catering companies. If you book with them, usually this fee will be discounted in your wedding catering package. So do your research beforehand and choose two to three of your top catering choices and get recommendations from your venue manager, friends and other local resources.
Once you’ve booked a tasting appointment, plan to be there for about an hour-and-a-half to two hours. The time frame will really depend on how many guests you are bringing to your tasting.
DURING YOUR TASTING
What can you expect to be served at your tasting? Really, the only rule is to come hungry! Chefs normally like to create an array of small portions for you to try some of their most popular food items. They’ll also get a bit creative and put their own spin on what they think will work within your dietary restrictions and menu suggestions. Expect to try hors d’oeuvres, sample entrées, sides and desserts. What is the process like when you sit down at your wedding catering tasting? Normally, you’ll start with drinks and conversation and make sure everyone is comfortable to begin the food experience. The chef or server will come out with either individual or shareable platters to the table that will come in courses, typically beginning with hors d’oeuvres and ending with desserts. The catering sales manager will sit (and sometimes eat) with you and present each item and its ingredients. At times, the tasting becomes a bit more casual as sales managers can come and go and check in as needed with you and your guests.
At the end of your tasting, you’ll typically meet the chef and the catering manager will take down notes of items you liked most and want on your wedding menu. Remember, this is your wedding menu, so suggest any changes or substitutions you may want on your big day. Depending on the caterer and what ingredients they have on hand, they may whip up some extra goodies for you at this point that are specific to your tastes. At this point, you should have a better understanding of what the caterer can provide and what you like and dislike.
Once you’ve decided on a caterer, you’ll want to sign a contract and get on their calendar right away, especially if you are getting married during peak wedding months. Don’t feel pressured to make this decision on the spot at your tasting. Take time to talk about it with your mate and decide what is best for you taste-wise and price-wise. From there, you’ll know you’ll be in good hands, that your food will be something your guests will talk about and more importantly you will enjoy on your big day.
