Posts Tagged ‘cost’
Catering Costs: What is included, and at what cost
When searching for a caterer, a few helpful tips will help you choose which caterer will be best for you.
Menu Options: This is very important when asking for quotes. If you know the type of menu that will suit your venue and function, this will help catering businesses quote accurately on menus. Catering can range from delivered platters, corporate functions, weddings to private parties. Advise the type of function when making enquiries of specific menus. This will help your caterer understand the style of catering required.Easy to understand information: Save yourself time and frustration. Find a caterer with an easy to read website or menu that clearly states menu options, pricing and inclusions. Understanding basic pricing will help keep your total budget in check.
Pricing: Pricing is generally listed as a per person price. A minimum guest number usually applies for the set price per person. Where guest numbers are below minimums, a surcharge may apply. When looking for quotes do check what the price includes.
Staff: While staff costs are included in some prices, others charge separately. Ensure that your quote includes staff to serve if required. If your catering is onsite, then a chef and wait staff may be required to serve and clear.
Plates, Cutlery and Napkins: If you are having a Spit Roast Buffet, Finger Food or Desserts do ask if plates, cutlery and napkins are included in pricing. While platters may be provided to serve Finger Foods, plates and cutlery may not always be included for buffets. Many catering companies are quoting with high quality disposable plates and cutlery, while others provide crockery and stainless steel cutlery. This additional cost needs to be considered, especially at larger weddings as it may increase the per person price quoted.
Cooking & Serving Equipment: Depending on the type of service and menu provided, do double check what cooking and serving equipment is provided in your quote. Nothing is worse than realising you are having finger food delivered for 100 people, and no heating device is provided.
Delivery & Booking Fee: This is generally a separate charge that is fairly small compared to your total quote. These fees are in place to keep per person prices to a minimum. Delivery & Booking Fee may vary depending on the location and additional work required.
Additional Surcharges: These are charges that apply above the quoted price. This may include food costs where Seafood is an option. Public holidays and Sundays may also incur staff surcharges.Consider your total catering costs and understand what is and what is not included in your quote. Don’t book with one caterer because they offer a great menu in your budget, only to find out that staff or GST is not included in the price.
Having a professional caterer is designed to make your life easier, so make it an enjoyable experience!